Early Times Bottled in Bond

A little background

Early Times Bottled in Bond is produced from a mash bill of 79% Corn, 11% Rye, and 10% Malted Barley.  Brown-Forman originally released this bourbon in celebration of the 75^th anniversary of the original bonded Early Times. Since then, the Early Times brand was sold to Sazerac. Details of the sales can be read in the June 15th, 2020 Press Release put out by Brown-Forman.  Early Times Bottled in Bond is at least 4 years old, bottled at 100 Proof, and carries a $25 price tag for a one-liter bottle.

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn.)

Color in the glass

Light Copper

Nose

Pineapple, brown sugar, baking spices, and caramel (Freshly baked pineapple upside-down cake in a glass).

Palate

Buttered popcorn, pie crust, and tropical fruits (pineapple, coconut, kiwi, and passion fruit).  Fleeting hints of charred butterscotch.

Finish

Surprising long with vanilla and charred oak.  The baking spices become more defined on the finish with nutmeg, cardamom, and clove becoming more dominant.

In closing

This is my favorite Brown-Forman product to date, yes including the Birthday Bourbons I’ve tried.  This does not have the artificial bubblegum and banana pudding that I find off-putting in many of their other whiskey brands.  The only downside is limited distribution but if you are ever going through any of the listed states it is worth looking in few stores for this tasty and affordable gem of a bourbon.