I find it interesting that in some stores, an everyday bourbon is readily available - on the shelf - and in other areas of the country, an everyday pour is allocated and located behind the counter. In my hometown, this Bourbon is often behind the counter. Luckily, I was in Kentucky at a large Liquor Barn store and Very Old Barton 86 Proof was available for the taking.
A Growing Family
Very Old Barton is produced by the Barton Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky. Producing bourbon since 1879, the Barton Distillery (aka 1792 Barton Distillery) was purchased by the Sazerac Company (owner of Buffalo Trace in Frankfort). Together, they produce a LOT of bourbon. The main Barton brands include 1792, Zackariah Harris, Kentucky Tavern, and Kentucky Gentleman, as well as blended whiskeys, such as Fleishmann’s, Old Thompson, and Ten High.
In addition to these brands, you’ll find Barton as the distiller for many store brands, including those available at Costco, Sam’s Club, or your favorite regional liquor store, such as Binny’s Clark & Sheffield products.
The Tasting
We’ve enjoyed this bourbon’s higher-proof sibling - 100 proof - in the past. Today, our $14.99 purchased a bottle of the 86 proof expression. There is no age statement, though it is listed as Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey. Without any additional age statement present, we’re assured that it has aged for at least four years. The mash bill is 75% corn, 15% rye, and 10% malted barley.
Eye: Light amber with a few wispy legs on the inside of my Glencairn glass.
Nose: Fairly delightful, with vanilla, butterscotch disk candy, paired with lighter citrus notes (think orange marmalade) and nutty banana bread.
Palate: Caramel, toasted nuts, citrus with a fleeting note of dill at the back.
Finish: Medium-long and drying, with dark fruits, rye spice, and wood.
Overall: If you can find this bourbon, it’s one worth having around. I know for some of my fans, it’s one of their favorite everyday pours. It’s not overly complex - I mean, it was less than $20 all-in - nor would I expect it. It’s straight-forward, with classic bourbon notes of vanilla and butterscotch, as well as fruitier and more savory notes, too. I have to say, too, that I’m a huge fan of the retro-labeling that hasn’t change in many decades (similar to Heaven Hill’s Quality House).