Old Grand Dad Bourbon: A Classic American Whiskey

If you’re an avid bourbon drinker, I want to talk about Old Grand Dad Bourbon. It’s a classic American bourbon that has been around for over a century and is still a favorite among whiskey drinkers today. Old Grand Dad is a high-rye bourbon that packs a spicy punch and a rich, complex flavor profile.

Old Grand Dad was created by Raymond B. Hayden and named after his grandfather, Meredith Basil Hayden Sr. The brand is known for its distinctive packaging featuring Hayden Sr. portrait on the front of each bottle. Old Grand Dad has a rich history and is a staple in the world of American whiskey.

If you’re curious about trying Old Grand Dad for yourself, there are a few things you should know. First, it’s a high-rye bourbon, which means it has a higher percentage of rye in the mash bill than other bourbons. This gives it a spicier, more complex flavor that sets it apart from other whiskies. Second, Old Grand Dad is available in a range of proofs, from the standard 80 proof to the higher-proof 114 and 114 bonded. Finally, Old Grand Dad is a great value for the quality, making it an excellent choice for both sipping and mixing in cocktails.

History

Prohibition Era

Old Grand Dad Bourbon has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. The bourbon has been in production since 1882. During the Prohibition era, Old Grand Dad twas produced by a pharmaceutical company, American Medicinal Spirits Co.  The company was one of the few that was allowed to produce whiskey for medicinal purposes during this time. Old Grand Dad was one of the most popular brands of bourbon during Prohibition, and its popularity continued to grow after the repeal of the 18th Amendment.

Modern Revival

Old Grand Dad has gone through multiple ownership changes over the years and has been produced at multiple distilleries. Today, it is owned by Beam Suntory and is still distilled at the Jim Beam distillery in Clermont, Kentucky. The brand has experienced a modern revival in recent years and has gained a new generation of fans.

Overall, Old Grand Dad Bourbon has a long and storied history that has contributed to its popularity and enduring legacy in the world of bourbon.

Production

Distillation Process

Old Grand Dad bourbon whiskey is made primarily from corn, at least 51%, and aged in new charred oak barrels. The distillation process involves a sour mash process, where a portion of the mash from a previous batch is used to start fermentation in the next batch. This process ensures consistency in the flavor profile of the bourbon.

The mash bill used to make Old Grand Dad bourbon consists of corn, rye, and malted barley. The corn provides the sweetness, while the rye adds a spicy note and the malted barley contributes to the overall flavor complexity.

Aging and Bottling

Old Grand Dad bourbon is aged for a minimum of four years in new, charred oak barrels. The aging process allows the bourbon to take on the flavors and aromas of the wood, resulting in a smooth and complex flavor profile.

After aging, the bourbon is bottled at 80 proof (40% ABV) and distributed worldwide.

In summary, Old Grand Dad whiskey is made from a mash bill of corn, rye, and malted barley using a sour mash process. It is aged for a minimum of four years in new, charred oak barrels and bottled at 80 proof. The resulting bourbon is a smooth and complex whiskey with a distinct flavor profile.

Varieties

Old Grand Dad Bourbon comes in a variety of expressions, each with its own unique flavor profile. Here are three of the most popular varieties:

Bonded

Old Grand Dad Bonded Bourbon is a classic example of a bonded whiskey. It is made from a mash bill of 63% corn, 27% rye, and 10% malted barley. The whiskey is aged for at least four years and bottled at 100 proof. This bourbon has a rich, spicy flavor with notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. It is a great choice for sipping neat or for use in cocktails.

114 Proof

Old Grand Dad 114 is a high-proof bourbon that is bottled at 57% ABV. This whiskey is made from the same mash bill as the Bonded variety, but it is aged for a shorter period of time. The result is a bold, spicy bourbon with notes of cinnamon, clove, and pepper. This bourbon is perfect for those who like their whiskey with a little extra kick.

Reserve

Old Grand Dad Reserve is a premium bourbon that is aged for a minimum of four years. This whiskey is made from a mash bill of 60% corn, 35% rye, and 5% malted barley. It has a smooth, mellow flavor with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. This bourbon is perfect for sipping neat or on the rocks.

Overall, Old Grand Dad Bourbon is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, flavorful whiskey. Whether you prefer a classic bonded bourbon or a high-proof expression, there is an Old Grand Dad variety that is sure to please.

Tasting Notes

Old Grand Dad Bourbon is a high-rye bourbon with a mash bill that is 63% corn, 27% rye, and 10% barley. It has a distinct flavor profile that can be described as bold, robust, and spicy.

Aroma Profile

When you first nose Old Grand Dad Bourbon, you will be greeted by a high-rye profile in the mash bill, delivering a sharp prickle of spice early on. The aroma is complex, with notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. The higher rye content in the mash bill gives it a spicy kick, with hints of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.

Flavor Characteristics

Old Grand Dad Bourbon has a medium-bodied taste with some sweet vanilla notes, but more evident is the peppery spiciness displayed by notes of cloves and cinnamon. The higher rye content in the mash bill gives it a spicy kick, with hints of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. The finish is long and very spicy, with a pleasant warmth that lingers on the tongue.

Overall, Old Grand Dad Bourbon is a bold and spicy bourbon that is perfect for sipping neat or mixing in your favorite cocktail. Its high-rye content gives it a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from other bourbons on the market. If you’re a fan of spicy and robust bourbons, then Old Grand Dad Bourbon is definitely worth trying.

Serving and Pairing

Consumption Methods

Old Grand Dad Bourbon is a versatile drink that can be consumed in a variety of ways. The most popular way to enjoy this bourbon is neat or on the rocks. Neat means that the bourbon is served at room temperature without any ice or mixers. On the rocks means that the bourbon is served over ice. If you prefer a colder drink, you can add a splash of water or soda to your bourbon.

Another popular way to enjoy Old Grand Dad is in a classic cocktail. The most famous cocktail that features bourbon is the Old Fashioned. To make an Old Fashioned, you will need sugar, bitters, bourbon, and a slice of orange and cherry for garnish. Mix the sugar and bitters in a glass, add ice and bourbon, and stir. Garnish with the orange and cherry slice.

Food Pairings

Old Grand Dad Bourbon pairs well with a variety of foods. The rich and complex flavors of the bourbon complement the flavors of many dishes. Here are some food pairing suggestions:

• Steak: The smoky and savory flavors of a grilled steak pair well with the bold flavors of Old Grand Dad Bourbon.
• Dark Chocolate: The sweetness of dark chocolate balances out the spiciness of the bourbon.
• Cheese: Aged and sharp cheeses like cheddar and gouda pair well with the rich and nutty flavors of the bourbon.
• BBQ: The smoky and sweet flavors of BBQ sauce pair well with the smoky and spicy flavors of the bourbon.

When pairing food with Old Grand Dad, it is important to remember to balance the flavors. You don’t want one flavor to overpower the other. The goal is to create a harmonious pairing that enhances the flavors of both the food and the bourbon.

Frequently Asked Questions

What distinguishes Old Grand Dad Bonded from other bourbons?

Old Grand Dad Bonded is a type of bourbon that is made from a mash bill of 63% corn, 27% rye, and 10% malted barley. It is also aged for at least four years and bottled at 100 proof. What distinguishes Old Grand Dad Bonded from other bourbons is that it is made according to the strict regulations set by the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897. This law requires that the bourbon be made by one distiller, at one distillery, in one distilling season, and aged in a federally bonded warehouse for at least four years. This ensures that the bourbon is of high quality and consistent.

How does Old Grand Dad 114 differ from the standard Old Grand Dad?

Old Grand dad 114 is a higher proof version of the standard Old Grand Dad. While the standard Old Grand Dad is bottled at 80 proof, Old Grand dad 114 is bottled at 114 proof. This higher proof gives the bourbon a stronger flavor and a more intense finish. The mash bill and aging process for both bourbons are the same.

What is the price range for Old Grand Dad bourbon?

The price range for Old Grand Dad varies depending on the type of bourbon and the location. The standard Old Grand Dad typically costs between $15 and $20 per 750ml bottle, while Old Grand Dad Bonded and Old Grand Dad 114 usually cost between $25 and $30 per 750ml bottle.

Can you provide a review summary for Old Grand Dad bourbon?

Old Grand Dad bourbon is a popular bourbon with a rich history. It has a spicy and bold flavor with notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. The finish is smooth and long-lasting. Many reviewers praise the bourbon for its value and quality, making it a great option for both sipping and mixing in cocktails.

Where can I find Old Grand Dad bourbon near me?

Old Grand Dad bourbon is widely available in liquor stores and online. You can check your local liquor store or online retailers such as  Caskers to find Old Grand Dad bourbon near you.

What is the relationship between Basil Hayden and Old Grand Dad?

Basil Hayden was the grandfather of Meredith Basil Hayden Sr., the namesake of Old Grand Dad bourbon. Basil Hayden was also a distiller and is credited with creating a high-rye bourbon recipe that has been passed down through generations of the Hayden family. While Basil Hayden is not directly related to the Old Grand Dad brand, his legacy and influence can be seen in the bourbon’s recipe and production process.