Veteran Bourbon Review: Heaven Hill 7 Year Bottled in Bond

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History –

Heaven Hill Distillery’s Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon has a rich history that reflects the evolution of American whiskey production and regulations. The concept of “Bottled-in-Bond” (BiB) dates back to the late 1800s and was a response to concerns about the quality and authenticity of distilled spirits. To understand the history of Heaven Hill’s Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon, we need to explore the broader context of the Bottled-in-Bond Act and the history of Heaven Hill Distillery itself.

The Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897 was a pivotal moment in the history of American whiskey. This legislation was designed to address issues of adulteration and mislabeling in the whiskey industry by establishing strict standards for labeling and production. Under the Bottled-in-Bond Act, a spirit had to meet certain criteria to earn the “Bottled-in-Bond” designation:

1. The spirit had to be distilled at one distillery during one distillation season.
2. It had to be aged for at least four years in a federally bonded warehouse.
3. It had to be bottled at 100 proof (50% alcohol by volume).
4. It had to be labeled with the producing distillery’s name and the location of the distillery.

Heaven Hill Distillery has a storied history that traces back to its founding in 1935 in Bardstown, Kentucky, by a group of investors led by the Shapira family. The distillery was established shortly after the end of Prohibition, and it set out to produce a range of quality spirits, including Bourbon and other whiskeys.

Heaven Hill Distillery’s involvement in the Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon category is a testament to their commitment to producing high-quality, authentic American whiskey. The Bottled-in-Bond designation guarantees a specific level of quality and transparency, reassuring consumers about the integrity of the product they’re purchasing.

Over the years, Heaven Hill’s Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon has become a favorite among whiskey enthusiasts who appreciate its historical significance, quality, and adherence to tradition. It has also become a symbol of the distillery’s commitment to producing authentic and respected American whiskeys.

In summary, the history of Heaven Hill’s Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon is intertwined with the broader history of American whiskey regulation and production. The Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897 laid the foundation for strict labeling and production standards, and Heaven Hill Distillery’s commitment to these standards reflects their dedication to producing high-quality Bourbon with a deep sense of history and authenticity. Lets Dig In!

Value – I feel that there are better bourbons out there within this price range so it is only fair to judge this one accordingly.

Appearance – Medium Copper. The bottle is old fashioned and really stands out. I like it!

Nose – Fresh Baked Bread / Lavender / Cherry Wood / Red Wine

Palate – Smoke / Licorice / Pecan / Pistachio

Finish –  Fudge / Cinnamon / Charcoal / Very Sweet and Light Lingering Burn

Summary – Heaven Hill Distillery’s Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon carries a history mirroring the evolution of American whiskey production and regulations, tracing back to the late 1800s and the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897. This Bourbon embodies the distillery’s dedication to producing authentic, high-quality American whiskey. Its historical significance, unwavering quality, and adherence to tradition have garnered a devoted following among enthusiasts. While its value is debated relative to competitors, its sensory experience is captivating: medium copper appearance, an old-fashioned bottle design, and a complex nose with notes of bread, lavender, cherry wood, and red wine. The palate offers smokiness, licorice, pecan, and pistachio, while the finish delights with fudge, cinnamon, and a sweet lingering burn.

“Heaven Hill’s Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon stands as a testament to heritage and craftsmanship in the world of American whiskey“.

– Andrew Workman

Uniqueness- 1-10 – 10

Appearance- 1-10 – 10

Nose- 1-20 – 17

Palate- 1-20 – 14

Finish- 1-20 – 15

Value- 1-20 – 15