In the realm of bourbon aficionados, there's a hidden gem that often flies under the radar, overshadowed by flashy labels and extravagant marketing campaigns. Meet Old Grand-Dad 114, the unsung hero of the whiskey world. Despite its unassuming appearance and forgettable branding, this bourbon packs a punch that rivals even the most prestigious bottles on the shelf.
Let's address the elephant in the room – the name and packaging of Old Grand-Dad 114 might not win any awards for originality. With its depiction of an elderly gentleman and the cliché use of "Old" in its name, one could easily dismiss it as just another run-of-the-mill bourbon. However, as the adage goes, never judge a whiskey by its label.
Owned by Beam Suntory, Old Grand-Dad 114 has a storied history that defies expectations. Despite rumors of its impending discontinuation swirling year after year, this bourbon continues to stand the test of time. In fact, Beam Suntory doesn't even list it on their official website, adding to its mysterious allure.
But what sets Old Grand-Dad 114 apart from the myriad of bourbons lining the shelves? For starters, it boasts a high-rye mashbill, with up to 30 percent rye content – double that of most bourbons. This, coupled with a robust maturation period of four to six years and a formidable 114 proof, gives it a unique flavor profile that demands attention.
While Jim Beam keeps the specifics of its mashbills under wraps, Old Grand-Dad's high-rye content sets it apart from the crowd. Unlike other brands that have succumbed to the standard Jim Beam distillate post-acquisition, Old Grand-Dad has retained its original mashbill, preserving its distinctive character.
But perhaps the most surprising aspect of Old Grand-Dad 114 is its affordability. With a price tag ranging from $25 to $30 in most markets, it punches well above its weight class. While other bourbons in this price range may offer more subdued flavor profiles, Old Grand-Dad 114 refuses to conform to convention, delivering a drinking experience that defies expectations.
In a world where flashy marketing and exorbitant prices often dictate consumer choices, Old Grand-Dad 114 is a refreshing reminder that true quality doesn't always come with a hefty price tag. So, before Jim Beam inevitably wakes up to the hidden gem in their portfolio and decides to revamp its branding or worse, discontinue it altogether, seize the opportunity to experience one of the best values on the whiskey shelf. Who knows, it might just become your new daily drinker, quietly waiting to be discovered amidst the noise of its more ostentatious counterparts.
About Old Grand-Dad
Old Grand-Dad is a venerable bourbon brand with a storied history dating back to the 19th century. Named in honor of Basil Hayden, a distiller renowned for his high-rye bourbon recipe, Old Grand-Dad pays homage to the legacy of this whiskey pioneer. Produced by the Jim Beam distillery, Old Grand-Dad is known for its bold and robust flavor profile, characterized by a higher-than-average proportion of rye in the mash bill.
One of the defining features of Old Grand-Dad bourbon is its distinctive spicy and peppery notes, attributed to the significant rye content in its recipe. This high-rye composition gives Old Grand-Dad a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from other bourbons on the market. Despite its affordability and widespread availability, Old Grand-Dad is highly regarded by whiskey enthusiasts for its quality and character.
Old Grand-Dad offers a range of expressions, including its flagship Old Grand-Dad Bourbon, which is aged in new charred oak barrels to develop its rich flavors and smooth finish. Additionally, the brand produces variations such as Old Grand-Dad 114, a higher-proof expression that amplifies the whiskey's intensity and depth. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in classic bourbon cocktails, Old Grand-Dad offers a taste of bourbon-making tradition and a timeless drinking experience for whiskey lovers everywhere.
