Old Fitzgerald 7 Year Old Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon is part of Heaven Hill Distillery's highly sought-after Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Decanter Series. While the series features varying age statements with each semi-annual release (spring and fall), a 7-year-old expression would be one of the younger releases in this premium line.
What "Bottled-in-Bond" Means (and why it matters): The Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897 is a crucial piece of American whiskey legislation designed to guarantee the authenticity and quality of bourbon. To be labeled "Bottled-in-Bond," a whiskey must meet strict criteria:
-
Single Distillation Season: It must be distilled by a single distiller at a single distillery during one distillation season (either January-June or July-December).
-
Aged Four Years Minimum: It must be aged for at least four years in a federally bonded warehouse.
-
100 Proof: It must be bottled at exactly 100 proof (50% ABV).
-
Government Supervision: The entire process must be overseen by the U.S. government.
Key Characteristics of Old Fitzgerald 7 Year Old Bottled-in-Bond:
-
Producer: Heaven Hill Distillery, a major player in the American whiskey landscape.
-
Distillery: Distilled at Heaven Hill's Bernheim Distillery in Louisville, Kentucky.
-
Mash Bill: Old Fitzgerald is a wheated bourbon, meaning wheat is the secondary grain (instead of rye) in its mash bill (typically 68% corn, 20% wheat, 12% malted barley). This often results in a softer, smoother, and sweeter flavor profile compared to rye-heavy bourbons.
-
Aging: Aged for a full 7 years in new, charred American oak barrels in Heaven Hill's rickhouses. The extended aging contributes depth and mellows the spirit.
-
Proof: 100 proof (50% ABV), as required by Bottled-in-Bond law.
-
Packaging: Comes in a distinctive and ornate decanter-style bottle, inspired by original 1950s Old Fitzgerald diamond decanters, which adds to its collectible appeal. Each spring edition typically has a green label.
-
Limited Release: Each age-stated release in the Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Decanter Series is a highly anticipated and allocated (limited availability) offering.
Tasting Notes (General Expectations for a 7-Year-Old Wheated BiB):
Given its age and wheated mash bill, you can expect a smooth, sweet, and approachable bourbon with good depth:
-
Nose: Often described with notes of caramelized brown sugar, toasted oak, and baking spices (like cinnamon and nutmeg). Hints of dried fruit (such as apple or pear) and vanilla are also common.
-
Palate: Typically rich and warm, with flavors of buttery vanilla, toffee, and honey. The wheated mash bill lends a soft, creamy mouthfeel, often with undertones of nutmeg, cinnamon, and toasted almonds. Some reviewers note a bright, fruity character (cherry, apple, peach).
-
Finish: Long and warming, with lingering notes of oak spice, caramel, and often a touch of leather. The finish tends to be balanced and elegant.
Overall Impression:
The Old Fitzgerald 7 Year Old Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon offers a testament to classic bourbon heritage and Heaven Hill's distilling prowess. It's a well-aged, full-flavored, and exceptionally smooth wheated bourbon that adheres to the stringent Bottled-in-Bond standards. Its limited availability and iconic decanter packaging contribute to its desirability among collectors and bourbon enthusiasts. It's best enjoyed neat or with a splash of water to fully appreciate its nuanced profile.
