Early Times 1L

Early Times Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon delivers classic Kentucky character at an exceptional price point, offering sweet vanilla and fruit-forward flavours backed by a sturdy 50% ABV that punches well above its weight. This is a bottled-in-bond expression, meaning it meets strict federal standards: distilled in a single season, aged at least four years in new charred oak barrels, and bottled at exactly 100 proof without additives.

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Originally created by John Henry “Jack” Beam in the 1860s near Bardstown, Kentucky, Early Times has a storied heritage tied to one of America’s most famous whiskey families. Now produced under the Sazerac Company banner at the Barton 1792 Distillery, this bourbon maintains its traditional 79% corn, 11% rye, and 10% malted barley mashbill, along with the proprietary yeast strain that gives it a distinctive fruity sweetness. At least four years of ageing in new charred oak develops a solid backbone of caramel and vanilla, while the higher proof ensures the flavours carry through with authority.

Nose: Sweet vanilla and caramel lead the charge, followed by fragrant notes of orange peel, creamed corn, and ripe cherries. There’s a gentle hint of funnel cake sweetness with undertones of barrel char and toffee, creating an inviting first impression without aggressive alcohol burn.

Palate: Medium-bodied and warming, the palate opens with creamy vanilla and caramel before fruity notes of peach, banana, and cherry emerge. Pipe tobacco and a touch of peanut add earthy depth, while the rye spice builds gradually with cinnamon sugar and gentle pepper. The 50% ABV provides a pleasant warmth without overwhelming the sweet and fruity core.

Finish: Medium length with vanilla and smooth leather fading into chocolate and subtle oak tannins. The rye spice lingers briefly before giving way to a soft, slightly sweet close that invites another sip.

Enjoy Early Times Bottled-in-Bond neat to appreciate its full character, or add a few drops of water to open up the fruit and spice notes even further. It also makes a robust base for classic bourbon cocktails like an Old Fashioned or Manhattan, where its proof and flavour profile stand up well to mixers and bitters.

This bourbon is ideal for whiskey enthusiasts seeking quality on a budget, home bartenders building a versatile collection, or anyone looking for a dependable everyday pour that doesn’t compromise on flavour. A thoughtful gift for bourbon drinkers who appreciate honest, well-made American whiskey with genuine heritage and character.