The oldest brand of whiskey is a topic that has been debated among whiskey enthusiasts for many years. There are several contenders for this title, each with their own claims to fame and historical significance. In order to determine the oldest brand of whiskey, we must first establish what qualifies as a “brand” and how far back we can trace its origins.
One of the oldest known whiskey brands is Bushmills, which is believed to have been established in 1608 in Northern Ireland. This makes it one of the oldest licensed distilleries in the world. The distillery has a rich history and has been producing whiskey for over 400 years. As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting Bushmills whiskey and can attest to its smooth and complex flavor profile. It is a true testament to the craftsmanship and tradition that goes into producing a high-quality whiskey.
Another contender for the title of the oldest brand of whiskey is Old Bushmills Distillery, which claims to have been established in 1608. While there is some debate over whether Old Bushmills Distillery is the same as the modern-day Bushmills brand, it is still considered to be one of the oldest whiskey brands in existence. The distillery has a long and storied history, and its whiskey is known for its distinct flavor and character.
Moving across the pond to the United States, we find another contender for the title of the oldest brand of whiskey. Michter's, founded in 1753 in Pennsylvania, claims to be the oldest continuously operating whiskey distillery in the United States. Michter's has a rich history and has overcome numerous challenges over the years, including Prohibition. Today, Michter's is renowned for its small-batch and single barrel whiskeys, which are highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs alike.
In Scotland, the birthplace of whiskey, there are several brands that can trace their origins back centuries. One such brand is The Glenlivet, which was founded in 1824 and is considered to be one of the first licensed distilleries in Scotland. The Glenlivet has a long and distinguished history, and its whiskey is known for its smooth and fruity character. As a sommelier, I have had the opportunity to taste The Glenlivet whiskey and can attest to its exceptional quality and craftsmanship.
While these are just a few examples of the oldest whiskey brands, it is important to note that the history of whiskey is complex and often shrouded in mystery. There are likely many other brands that could make a claim to being the oldest, depending on how one defines a “brand” and what evidence is available. Regardless of which brand can truly claim the title of the oldest, it is clear that whiskey has a long and rich history that continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by people around the world.