For bourbon fans who've spent years chasing that perfect pour, the arrival of Heaven Hill's Fall 2025 Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond edition feels like striking gold. This isn't just another whiskey hitting the shelves—it's a nod to old-school distilling that packs enough history and flavor to make any guy's home bar the envy of his buddies. Released right as the chill sets in, with winter knocking on the door, this 11-year-old gem is the 16th in the Decanter Series, a lineup that's become a staple for collectors who appreciate the real deal.
The story behind Old Fitzgerald goes way back, starting in the 1800s when the brand first made its mark. Fast forward about a century, and it was rolling out of the famous Stitzel-Weller distillery in Kentucky. That's where a guy named Pappy Van Winkle shook things up by swapping rye for wheat in the recipe, aiming for a smoother, sweeter taste that didn't hit as harsh. Heaven Hill picked up the brand in 1999 and kept that tradition alive, sticking to the same mashbill: 68 percent corn for that solid base, 20 percent wheat to soften it up, and 12 percent malted barley to round things out. It's the exact mix they use in other favorites like Larceny, proving Heaven Hill knows how to build on what works without messing with perfection.
What sets this series apart is its bottled-in-bond status, a label that means serious business in the whiskey world. To earn it, the bourbon has to be at least four years old, bottled at exactly 100 proof, and come from one distillery during a single distillation season. No blending from different years or places—just pure, straightforward craftsmanship. The Fall 2025 release blows past the minimum age, clocking in at 11 years, which lands it smack in the middle of the age range for the whole Decanter Series. Heaven Hill drops these twice a year, once in spring and once in fall, giving enthusiasts regular shots at adding to their stash.
Conor O’Driscoll, the master distiller at Heaven Hill, summed it up best in his statement: “Every release of the Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Decanter Series reflects our dedication to tradition and meticulous craft. The 11-year-old Fall 2025 edition carries a richness and poise that exemplify what this series stands for and why the bottled-in-bond legacy remains so important to Heaven Hill.” It's that kind of commitment that turns a bottle into more than just a drink—it's a piece of Kentucky heritage you can savor on a quiet evening or share during a poker night with the guys.
Picture this: an amber liquid that catches the light just right, pulling you in before you even take a sip. The nose hits with that classic bourbon sweetness, mixed with hints of worn leather, sturdy oak, and those warm baking spices that remind you of holiday gatherings or a crackling fire. On the tongue, it opens up with layers of honey and butterscotch, blending into fruity notes like plums, peaches, and figs that add a touch of complexity without overwhelming the senses. The finish lingers with dark fruit and a smooth fade into milk chocolate, leaving you wanting another pour. It's the kind of profile that rewards patience, perfect for those times when you're kicking back after a long day, maybe with a good cigar or a steak dinner.
At a suggested retail price of $160, this edition sounds like a steal on paper, but anyone who's hunted previous releases knows the drill—secondary markets jack it up quick. You might shell out a few hundred more to snag one, but for the depth and story it brings, it's worth every penny. If you're easing into the Old Fitzgerald game or watching your wallet, there's also the newer 7-year bottled-in-bond version out there, often going for under $100 at spots like Total Wine. It's a solid entry point that still delivers on that wheated smoothness.
Collecting these isn't just about the buzz; it's about owning a slice of bourbon evolution. From its roots in the 1800s to the Stitzel-Weller days and now under Heaven Hill's watchful eye, Old Fitzgerald stands as a testament to why wheated bourbons have such a loyal following. The Decanter Series, with its elegant packaging and limited drops, appeals to guys who value quality over quantity—those who've graduated from everyday pours to something special for milestones or just because. Whether you're building a collection to pass down or simply enjoying the hunt, this Fall 2025 release checks all the boxes.
In a market flooded with hype, Heaven Hill keeps it real by focusing on what matters: time-tested methods, genuine flavors, and a respect for the bottled-in-bond rules that ensure consistency. If you're the type who appreciates a whiskey with character, one that tells a story with every sip, keep an eye out for this one. It might not last long on shelves, but the memories from cracking it open sure will.
