To fully understand the story behind Old Taylor whiskey, we have to delve into its fascinating history. The brand was once under the ownership of National Distillers, a company that also happened to own another popular whiskey brand, Old Grand Dad. In 1987, Jim Beam acquired both Old Taylor and Old Grand Dad, consolidating them under their umbrella. However, the journey of Old Taylor did not end there.
In 2009, Sazerac, the company that owns Buffalo Trace distillery, entered the picture and made a significant move. They purchased Old Taylor from Jim Beam, along with their stock. This acquisition allowed Sazerac to add Old Taylor to their growing portfolio of whiskey brands.
Now, let's take a step back and explore the significance of these transitions. National Distillers, the original owner of Old Taylor, was a prominent player in the whiskey industry. Their ownership of both Old Taylor and Old Grand Dad demonstrates their commitment to producing quality whiskey. This shared ownership also suggests that both brands shared certain characteristics or production methods.
When Jim Beam acquired Old Taylor, they brought their expertise and resources to the table. Jim Beam is a well-known name in the whiskey world, and their acquisition of Old Taylor further solidified their position in the market. Under their ownership, Old Taylor likely benefited from their established distribution channels and marketing efforts.
However, the story takes an interesting turn when Sazerac enters the picture. Sazerac, the proud owner of Buffalo Trace distillery, has a reputation for producing exceptional whiskeys. Their acquisition of Old Taylor demonstrates their commitment to preserving and reviving historical whiskey brands. Sazerac has a knack for breathing new life into these brands while staying true to their original character and tradition.
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and analyze various whiskeys, including Old Taylor. The whiskey itself embodies the rich history and expertise of its previous owners. It carries a distinct flavor profile, often characterized by notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. The aging process and careful craftsmanship that go into each bottle of Old Taylor are evident in its smoothness and depth of flavor.
The journey of Old Taylor whiskey is a testament to the ever-evolving nature of the whiskey industry. From its origins under National Distillers to its acquisition by Jim Beam and eventual ownership by Sazerac, Old Taylor has experienced the influence of multiple renowned whiskey producers. Each owner has left its mark on the brand, contributing to its legacy and ensuring its continued presence in the whiskey market.