Old Bardstown Whiskey
Old Bardstown is named after a 1950s racehorse that, despite bad ankles and hips, still won 18 races. The bourbon itself shares that same stubborn character: full-flavoured and satisfying, regardless of what the odds say about a whiskey at this price point. |
About Old Bardstown
Old Bardstown Bourbon is produced by Kentucky Bourbon Distillers, better known as Willett Distillery, and is named after a local racehorse from the 1950s who, despite recurring problems with his ankles and hips, still won 18 races. The bourbon, including the Black Label edition, is a Sour Mash Whiskey with a full flavour of honey, caramel, toffee, vanilla, maple syrup and smoked wood, offered at a price notably lower than many other Kentucky bourbons of the same quality. Collectors find the name's local, folksy story part of the charm, while newcomers meet one of the most affordable, satisfying entries into the Willett family's whiskeys.
History & Background
The horse Old Bardstown became a local legend in Kentucky during the 1950s, known for its stubborn will to win races despite physical ailments that would have stopped most competitors. The Willett family found the name fitting for a robust, characterful bourbon that, like the horse, delivers more than immediately expected. The brand has since become one of Willett's best-selling, precisely because it manages to combine an authentic Kentucky Sour Mash style with a price that makes it accessible to a wide audience, without compromising on the full flavour the family is known for.
History & Background
Bardstown has historically housed several major bourbon distilleries and celebrates its status each year with the annual Kentucky Bourbon Festival. Old Bardstown was created as a direct tribute to the town's role in bourbon history, and the name serves as a promise of authenticity rather than a specific distillery name.
Production & Style
The bourbon is distilled and matured following classic Kentucky methods in new, charred oak casks, focused on a straightforward, traditional flavour profile.
Signature Style
Caramel, Corn-Sweet, Traditional
Caramel and a round corn sweetness give a classic, straightforward bourbon delivering traditional Kentucky character without extra embellishment.
Facts
| Distillery | Willett Distillery |
| Founded | 1936 (Willett Distilling Company) |
| Pronounced | Old Bards-taun |
| Region | Bardstown, Kentucky |
| Country | USA |
| Owner | The Kulsveen family (since 1984) |
| Official website | willettdistillery.com |
Did You Know?
Bardstown officially calls itself the 'Bourbon Capital of the World' and hosts the Kentucky Bourbon Festival each year, one of the industry's biggest celebrations.
Like Old Bardstown? You should also try:
Willett, Four Roses and Maker's Mark.