Chris Hatler is a senior editor at Men’s Journal, went on a whiskey tasting journey. Hatler's journey into the realm of whiskey was not haphazard but rather a result of his immersion in the world of spirits through his role at Men’s Journal. As he delved into the meticulous process of curating stories for the Spirits Awards, he found himself captivated by the intricate flavors and nuances of various liquors, sparking a newfound curiosity and appreciation for whiskey in particular.
Despite his initial lack of a well-stocked liquor cabinet, Hatler's enthusiasm for whiskey led him to gradually amass a collection of bottles, each holding the promise of unique sensory experiences waiting to be explored. Among his discoveries, one particular whiskey stood out: Larceny Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Affordably priced yet punching well above its modest cost, this bourbon became Hatler's favorite, thanks to its citrusy notes and delightful 92-proof intensity.
Inspired by the Spirits Awards and fueled by his passion for whiskey, Hatler ventured into mixology, seeking to craft a cocktail that epitomized simplicity without sacrificing flavor. His quest led him to the creation of a bourbon Manhattan, a classic concoction comprising bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters—a drink that quickly became his go-to indulgence during quiet evenings at home.
Through his journey with whiskey, Hatler came to appreciate not only its rich and diverse flavors but also its ability to foster connections and create memorable experiences. From sharing sips with friends to gifting bottles to loved ones, whiskey became more than just a beverage—it became a catalyst for meaningful moments and cherished memories.
About Larceny Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Larceny Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a product classified as Straight Bourbon and is produced by Heaven Hill, a renowned distillery. Introduced in September 2012, it is considered the successor to the wheated bourbons that make up the historic Old Fitzgerald franchise, which Heaven Hill acquired in 1999. The whiskey is named after John Fitzgerald, a legendary figure believed to have been a Treasury agent who pilfered bourbon from the finest barrels using his keys.
The exact mashbill of Larceny is undisclosed, but it is known to contain one-third more wheat than other competitors, adding to its unique flavor profile. This wheat-forward approach distinguishes it from other bourbons, which typically use rye as a secondary grain. Larceny is produced at 92 proof, offering a balanced and approachable taste experience.
In terms of flavor, Larceny exhibits soft notes of summer fruits like orange, apricot, and peach, complemented by a sweet sugarcane aroma on the nose. The palate features a delicate cinnamon spice with hints of baking spices and nutmeg, balanced by honey sweetness. The finish is characterized by lingering cinnamon, honey, and maple sugar notes, providing a warm and medium-length conclusion to the sip.
Larceny's value proposition lies in its accessibility, crowd-pleasing taste profile, and reasonable price point, typically around $27 per bottle. It competes favorably with other bourbons in
its price range, offering a balanced and enjoyable drinking experience without polarizing flavors. Despite being in the market for several years, Larceny has maintained its popularity and remains a recommended choice for both seasoned bourbon enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
In comparison to other wheated bourbons like Maker's Mark, Larceny stands out for its balanced flavor profile and widespread appeal. While it may not boast the same level of character as some competitors, its approachability and likability make it a solid option for those seeking a sweeter bourbon experience.
Overall, Larceny Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey continues to be a reliable and well-regarded choice in the bourbon market, offering a combination of quality, value, and accessibility that appeals to a wide range of consumers.
About Larceny Distillery
Larceny Bourbon is a popular American whiskey brand that is produced and marketed by Heaven Hill Distillery, a renowned distillery based in Bardstown, Kentucky. Launched in 2012, Larceny quickly gained recognition for its smooth and approachable flavor profile, making it a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts.
The name "Larceny" pays homage to the legendary history of John E. Fitzgerald, a famous bourbon maker and treasury agent who was said to have a knack for acquiring fine bourbon whiskey from the finest barrels. Legend has it that Fitzgerald would use his keys to access these prized barrels, earning him the nickname "Old Fitzgerald" and inspiring the creation of Larceny Bourbon.
Larceny Bourbon is crafted using a traditional wheat bourbon mash bill, with a higher proportion of wheat compared to other bourbons. This unique mash bill results in a softer and more mellow flavor profile, characterized by notes of caramel, vanilla, and baking spices. Larceny is aged in new charred oak barrels to impart rich flavors and develop complexity over time.
One of Larceny's most popular expressions is its flagship Larceny Kentucky Straight Bourbon, which is bottled at 92 proof (46% ABV). This bourbon is celebrated for its smoothness, sweetness, and balance, making it suitable for both sipping neat and mixing in cocktails. In addition to its core range, Larceny offers limited-edition releases and special bottlings, providing enthusiasts with the opportunity to explore new and unique expressions.
With its rich heritage, dedication to quality, and distinctive flavor profile, Larceny Bourbon has earned a loyal following among bourbon drinkers worldwide. Whether enjoyed on its own or mixed into a classic cocktail, Larceny offers a taste of Kentucky's bourbon-making tradition and a memorable drinking experience for whiskey enthusiasts everywhere.
