Heaven Hill's acquisition of Old Fitzgerald occurred in 1999. This significant event marked a new chapter in the brand's history, as it transitioned to being distilled at the renowned Bernheim Distillery in Louisville, Kentucky. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I find it fascinating to delve into the history of spirits and how they evolve over time. Old Fitzgerald is no exception, with its rich legacy and the various expressions it has spawned.
Old Fitzgerald's journey under Heaven Hill's ownership has been an intriguing one, with the brand continuing to thrive and capture the hearts of bourbon enthusiasts. One notable result of this acquisition is the Old Fitzgerald Decanter Series. This collection of limited-edition releases showcases the brand's heritage and craftsmanship, offering unique expressions that appeal to collectors and connoisseurs alike.
However, the story of Old Fitzgerald doesn't end with the Decanter Series. Heaven Hill has also introduced other wheated bourbon expressions that carry on the legacy of Old Fitzgerald. One such example is Larceny Small Batch, a bourbon that pays homage to the historic wheated recipe dating back to the late 1800s. Larceny Small Batch captures the essence of Old Fitzgerald with its smooth and approachable character, making it a popular choice among bourbon enthusiasts.
For those seeking a bolder and more robust flavor profile, Heaven Hill offers Larceny Barrel Proof. This expression takes the wheated bourbon experience to new heights, delivering a higher proof and intensified flavors. As a sommelier and brewer, I appreciate the diversity within the Old Fitzgerald family of bourbons, as it caters to different preferences and occasions.
Personally, I have had the pleasure of sampling various expressions of Old Fitzgerald, including those from the Decanter Series and the Larceny range. Each sip has allowed me to appreciate the craftsmanship and artistry that goes into creating these exceptional bourbons. The smoothness, complexity, and depth of flavors found in Old Fitzgerald whiskies are a testament to the expertise and dedication of the distillers at Heaven Hill.
Heaven Hill's acquisition of Old Fitzgerald in 1999 marked a significant moment in the brand's history. Since then, the legacy of Old Fitzgerald has continued to thrive through the Old Fitzgerald Decanter Series, as well as the introduction of other wheated bourbon expressions like Larceny Small Batch and Larceny Barrel Proof. These whiskies exemplify the rich heritage and exceptional quality that Old Fitzgerald has come to represent, making them a must-try for any bourbon enthusiast.