OGD proof change?

[ChuckBiscuits]

Hi,

Noob here. My Dad just brought me a couple of handles of OGD from Phoenix to save me a few bucks, and I noticed that Beam Global had indeed lowered the proof. For what it's worth, I sent them this letter:

I just noticed that Beam Global has reduced the proof of Old Grand-Dad from 86 to 80. I had heard rumors on the forums of this decision, but I could not believe you would be so short-sighted as to de-content such a storied brand. I would like to complain in no uncertain terms about this. I have recently become an avid bourbon drinker, and after trying many, many offerings, OGD has become my hands-down favorite, even among higher-priced whiskeys. I believe that altering this fine product in any way is a disservice to loyal drinkers everywhere. It might add a dime or two to your bottom line, but in the long run, the brand equity of OGD suffers. I realize that I am in the minority here. Most folks would either a) not notice, not take the time to write in or c) not give a damn. I am none of those folks. PLEASE reconsider this decision to "water down" my favorite bourbon and restore Old Grand-Dad to its former glory. It's not just a product or a shelf facing or a number in a spreadsheet cell to us consumers. Fans. Drinkers. Loyal customers.

CB

P.S. I am drinking my last pour of OGD 86 with dinner.

[BigBoldBully]

ChuckBiscuits, have you had the 100 and 114 proof OGD? Personally, I am grateful they messed with the 86 rather than the others (and have heard they claim to have diluted it in part to preserve the BIB and 114).

[ChuckBiscuits]

No, I have not. They are on my short list, for sure. I have found, much to the relief of my wallet, that I actually prefer middle-of-the-road bourbons to the high dollar ones, OGD being the proof in the pudding. I recently tried Four Roses single barrel and Eagle Rare 10-year, and I prefer Old Grand-Dad or Dickel #12 to both. Not that I won't keep trying every kind of bourbon I can get my hands on...

[squire]

CB I've tried every kind of Bourbon they make and I prefer Old Grand Dad, Barton and Dickel 12.

Edited May 14, 2013 by squire

[Josh]

Hi,

Noob here. My Dad just brought me a couple of handles of OGD from Phoenix to save me a few bucks, and I noticed that Beam Global had indeed lowered the proof. For what it's worth, I sent them this letter:

Yep. They hit the shelf here a few months ago. Took a picture with my phone but I've been too lazy to upload it.

[Rutherford]

I don't think this is worth fussing over, as one of their stated reasons for doing this is to avoid shortage of BiB (which is a superior product in the first place)

[squire]

Save the BIB! Save the BIB! Let me hear 'ya guys, Save the BIB!

[TheNovaMan]

I agree with Squire: lowering the proof of the regular OGD to ensure the supply of BIB and 114 is the least of all possible evils.

What would be really nice is if they would bring the proof back up to 86 when the supply problems go away, but I kinda don't see that happening.

[black mamba]

I found a local, very deep source for OGD114 @ $17.99 a fifth . . . . don't think I'll be drinkin' much of the 80 or 86 pf now.

[MauiSon]

Squire - "Save the BIB! Save the BIB! Let me hear 'ya guys, Save the BIB!"

Yeah, I'll be cheerin' that when we get the BIB or 114 here. In the meanwhile, we have fading stocks of 86 being replaced with 80. I won't buy the 3yo OO and I won't buy the OGD80 - gotta put the line somewhere (I am buying Old Crow Reserve @ $11/handle for export, tho).

Edited May 14, 2013 by MauiSon

[ChuckBiscuits]

I found a local, very deep source for OGD114 @ $17.99 a fifth . . . . don't think I'll be drinkin' much of the 80 or 86 pf now.

[squire]

That's the beginning of a beautiful friendship.

[ChuckBiscuits]

I don't think the Old Grand-Dad brand is in any jeapordy but if they did discontinue something, it would probably be the 80 proof no one here likes anyway.

Believe me, I realize how much I DON'T know about whiskey, but I know what I like. OGD provided great whiskey at a low price point--perfect for a new guy learning about what makes a great pour. Now they provide decent whiskey at best. Same price, lesser value. Maybe OK for those who can buy off the top shelf, but for those of us who still need to shop for a bargain, OGD filled a niche. I mean NO disrespect with these opinions, as I have worlds to learn about bourbon and my palate. I DO appreciate the folks who are willing to share their years of experience with those of us who are still learning. Keep that in mind.

CB

[CADMixes]

As long as they don't touch the bonded, I'm ok.