In a market where countless whiskey brands have disappeared into history, Old Commonwealth Bourbon has returned, reigniting excitement among bourbon enthusiasts and collectors alike. This iconic brand, established by Julian Van Winkle II in the 1970s, was once a cornerstone in the Van Winkle family’s whiskey heritage. Now, nearly two decades since its last release, Old Commonwealth is back with a new 10-year-old bourbon, much to the delight of whiskey lovers who value its legacy and connection to one of the most renowned names in bourbon history.
Image credit: Old Commonwealth Bourbon
A Legacy Rooted in the Van Winkle Family
Old Commonwealth's story is deeply intertwined with the Van Winkle family, legendary for its contributions to American whiskey. Julian Van Winkle II, the son of the famed Julian “Pappy” Van Winkle, initially launched the Old Commonwealth brand in the 1970s. This was an era when bourbon was far less popular than it is today, and the Van Winkle family was navigating through a challenging market. In 1972, the family sold their Stitzel-Weller distillery, a pivotal move that saw the Van Winkles part ways with their original production site. Over time, the Stitzel-Weller distillery changed hands and ultimately landed with Diageo, an international spirits company.
However, Julian Van Winkle III wasn’t ready to let go of the family’s bourbon-making roots. He continued buying back old barrels of Stitzel-Weller bourbon in a determined effort to preserve his grandfather’s legacy. In 1983, he acquired the Hoffman Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, which he renamed the Old Commonwealth Distillery, aiming to keep the family’s whiskey tradition alive.
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The Shuttering of Old Commonwealth and Its Revival
Despite its strong history and the Van Winkle family’s efforts, Old Commonwealth ceased operations in 2002. Julian Van Winkle III had moved on to work with Buffalo Trace, a distillery that would help him continue producing the now-famous Van Winkle bourbon lines under a new banner. Old Commonwealth, meanwhile, became a piece of whiskey history, joining the ranks of classic American brands that seemed destined to remain part of the past.
In 2019, however, a group of three bourbon enthusiasts saw an opportunity to bring this storied brand back to life. Their purchase of Old Commonwealth marked the beginning of a revival process, and after years of planning, they have finally re-released an updated version of the bourbon that once bore the Van Winkle name. This new release is not merely a reboot but a respectful nod to Old Commonwealth’s roots, capturing both the spirit of the original brand and the quality associated with the Van Winkle legacy.
The New 10-Year-Old Old Commonwealth Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Old Commonwealth’s comeback is marked by the release of a limited-edition, 10-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon. This new expression is crafted with a unique mash bill that departs slightly from the traditional Van Winkle recipe. Unlike the heavily wheat-based Van Winkle bourbons, Old Commonwealth’s new 10-year-old contains a smaller percentage of wheat, resulting in a profile distinct from, yet complementary to, its famous predecessors.
This 10-year bourbon has been matured in charred American oak barrels, allowing the spirit to develop deep flavors over the years. The bourbon is bottled at cask strength, a bold 131.83 proof, ensuring that its complex flavors and aromas remain as intense as intended. On the nose, it offers rich notes of dark chocolate, marzipan, cherries, and dried fruits, creating an inviting prelude to what the palate will experience. When sipped, the bourbon reveals layers of flavors, including dried cherries, plums, candied nuts, and hints of dark chocolate, with each taste contributing to a multidimensional profile. The finish is described as dry and lingering, with a kick of fresh leather, tobacco, and cherries, leaving a memorable aftertaste.
Securing a Bottle: Exclusivity and Anticipation
The new Old Commonwealth 10-Year Bourbon has quickly become one of the most anticipated whiskey releases, largely due to its connection to the Van Winkle family’s legacy and its limited availability. As anyone familiar with Van Winkle bourbons knows, rarity and heritage go hand in hand, and this release is no different. Each bottle has a suggested retail price of $199.99, though demand has led to a waitlist system for potential buyers. Enthusiasts and collectors eager to secure a bottle may find themselves joining the list and waiting for an opportunity to experience a piece of American whiskey history.
Why Old Commonwealth’s Return Matters
The reintroduction of Old Commonwealth 10-Year Bourbon represents more than just a new product on the market; it revives a brand that has been absent for two decades and brings back a part of American whiskey culture tied to the Van Winkle family’s legacy. This revival not only celebrates the craftsmanship and tradition that defined Old Commonwealth but also honors the Van Winkles' resilience and dedication to bourbon.
For those who appreciate the history behind their favorite spirits, Old Commonwealth’s return serves as a reminder that great whiskey brands don’t simply disappear; they live on in the hearts of their fans and in the hands of those determined to keep their legacies alive.