Old Hickory Hermitage Reserve Barrel Proof Whiskey

A Little Background

Established in 1868 in Fayette County, Kentucky, Old Hickory Distillery marked the birth of our beloved brand. Founded by John Robb, the distillery produced the renowned “Old Hickory Sour-Mash Kentucky Copper” whiskey.

Relocating to Chattanooga, Tennessee, in 1896 under E.R. Betterton & Co., Old Hickory paid homage to former President Andrew Jackson, known for his whiskey distillation history in Tennessee. The brand’s popularity spread beyond the south, captivating whiskey enthusiasts nationwide.

In 2011, the R.S. Lipman Company brought Old Hickory back to its Tennessee roots, led by Robert Lipman. Seagram’s master blender, Pam Soule, was chosen to produce mash bills in Lawrenceberg, IN, at a former Seagram facility, ensuring the brand’s authentic revival.

With a century-long legacy, Old Hickory stands as a tried and true legend, witnessing history unfold throughout the ages.

Mashbill: 99% Corn, 1% Malted Barley
Distillery: MGP
Age: 10yrs
Proof / ABV: 117 Proof
Retail Price: $67 USD

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)

Color

Light Gold

Nose

Orange cream, vanilla, peaches, and citrus.

Palate

Sweet with notes of oranges, cocoa, brown sugar, butterscotch, cherry, and caramel.

Finish

In closing

It’s always fun to try something different, and Old Hickory has done just that with this 10-year-old MGP distilled 99% Corn whiskey. The tasting experience starts out with an exceptionally hot nose which is somewhat distracting. Behind the heat is a pleasant profile of orange cream, citrus, and stone fruit. The heat from the nose carries through to a hot palate that I found to be moderately drying. Once my palate warmed up to the alcohol, sweet notes of brown sugar, cherries, and orange citrus carried through.

Overall, Old Hickory Hermitage Reserve 10-Year Barrel Proof is an exceptionally sweet high-octane whiskey. Coming from a 99% Corn mash bill, I’m not overly surprised by this and respect the product for what it is. Despite spending 10 Years in Oak, this whiskey still drinks relatively young and is lacking body and complexity. It’s important to mention that this product is actually priced quite fair at under $70 USD.

NOTE: The sample used for this review was provided at no cost courtesy of Old Hickory. We thank them for the sample and for allowing us to review it with no strings attached.