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Downshifting this month. Let's see what everyone has to say about Ancient Age. I believe this bourbon is more widely distributed than last months BOTM. At least I've seen it on the shelves in a lot more places lately. So what say ye? Let's hear your thoughts. Maybe we can get a few more posts this month. Cheers, and happy posting! :grin: Joe
I'm curious to see how people describe this one. I haven't been able to come up with a good word to describe a hint of unusual flavor/scent in AA. It seems like tea, but others haven't agreed with me. It's not unpleasant, just hard to describe. I must like it because my bottle is getting near done.
Me and Ancient Age go way back. As I have posted in the past, I was introduced to AA by my grandparents by way of sneaking sips from unattended drinks. They mixed it with Canada Dry Ginger Ale and a good shot of bitter lemon. Even as a young bourbon hound, AA of that period was smooth, aromatic and delicate. Just right for tender palates not ready for a throat closing, eye watering, booger blowing bourbon made for real men in deer camp.
It went through a dark period for me when Seagrams took it. In 2007, I found a pint bottle of it in Tennessee at 10 years and 90 proof. That's odd, I thought, I didn't think it was ever issued in recent history with that age and proof but there it was. So I bought it.
It was outstanding. It was rich and smooth. That aromatic, almost shoe polish, nose was there. The taste was of roasted buttered almonds with brown sugar and cinnamon. Just the slightest hint of sweet smokey oak was there. I loved it. I gave the bottle to my grandfather for him to reminisce of the old AA he used to drink.
No problem. I'll buy more. I haven't seen it since. Anywhere. To me, Ancient Age, Like Gentleman Jack, realizes its greatest potential in a good quality glass of dry style ginger ale. They were made for each other like a couple toasting their 50 year anniversary.
Now some will not agree about AA's place in the rankings of fine bourbon but AA, like my first girlfriend, has a special place in my heart. It was AA that started my lifelong affair with bourbon.
Joe - I may have to kick you in the nads when you get back from vacation. When we were at JT's the other week, you talked me out of buying an AAA, now you're making AA the BOTM? You're killing me! Enjoy your trip and buy a cup while you're there. :grin:
Gary
I have always found Ancient Age to be a pedestrian whiskey. There is nothing terribly wrong with it, but there is nothing to declare it a great whiskey. A decent mixing whiskey IMO. Spend the extra money and get the AAA.
Joe :usflag:
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Originally Posted by Vosgar
I have to wonder BourbonJoe if your serious about his post or your just trying to get Fishnbowljoe's nads crushed :slappin:Quote:
Originally Posted by BourbonJoe
I have never tried AA. I will have to see if the local packie carries it and pick up a bottle.
I picked up a bottle of AA today.
The family resemblence to its mashbill-mates is clear in the nose, but upon initial entry the corn is very strong.
As the corn fades, a sort of harsh, slightly bitter taste but no wood to be found.
The finish gradually fades into that sweet tea taste Doggerlander mentioned. Then a little tingle, then it's gone.
For under ten dollars, it's not terrible, and certainly better than any cheapo blend, but not something I'd drink on a regular basis. I actually think I may like it better than the last AAA 10* I bought. I'd rather spend a few more bucks for Evan Williams, Old Forester, or VOB.
Man oh man, can't one day go by without a MI guy bashing a BT product?!?!!?:grin:Quote:
Originally Posted by Josh
Just checking -- the 3yo 80 proof? I have a 200ml to sample.