Welcome to the realm of Old Grand-Dad bourbon, a cherished icon that has stood the test of time. In this blog post, we embark on a spirited journey to uncover the secrets, stories, and flavors that have made Old Grand-Dad a timeless favorite among bourbon enthusiasts.

With each sip of Old Grand-Dad, you are transported to an era where traditions were forged, barrels aged patiently, and distillers pushed the boundaries of excellence. From its humble beginnings in the 19th century to its status as a revered name in the bourbon landscape, this iconic spirit carries the legacy of Basil Hayden Sr., a legendary figure who left an indelible mark on the whiskey world.

The Basics Of Old Grand-Dad Bourbon

Old Grand-Dad is a brand of bourbon whiskey that has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. It is known for its distinctive flavor profile and iconic packaging. Here’s some information about Old Grand-Dad bourbon:

1. Heritage: Old Grand-Dad was first introduced in 1882 by Raymond B. Hayden, a well-known distiller. The brand is named after his grandfather, Basil Hayden Sr., who was also a distiller and considered a pioneer in the bourbon industry.
2. Bourbon Production: Old Grand-Dad is a bourbon whiskey, which means it is made primarily from corn (at least 51%) and aged in new charred oak barrels. It is produced using traditional methods, including a sour mash process, where a portion of the mash from a previous batch is used to start fermentation in the next batch.
3. Mash Bill: The exact mash bill (grain recipe) of Old Grand-Dad is proprietary information, but it is known to contain a higher percentage of rye compared to many other bourbons. This higher rye content gives Old Grand-Dad its distinct spicy and peppery flavor.
4. Flavor Profile: Old Grand-Dad is characterized by its bold and robust flavor. It typically has notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and a prominent rye spiciness. The higher rye content contributes to a drier and more assertive taste compared to bourbons with lower rye content.
5. Bottling Strength: Old Grand-Dad is typically bottled at a higher proof compared to many other bourbons. The standard bottling strength is 100 proof (50% alcohol by volume), although there are variations available, including a 114 proof version known as Old Grand-Dad 114.
6. Packaging: Old Grand-Dad is easily recognized by its distinctive packaging. The bottle features a square shape and a prominent label with an image of a distinguished older gentleman, representing the brand’s namesake. The bottle is sealed with a red wax topper, adding a touch of elegance.
7. Brand Ownership: Old Grand-Dad is currently owned by the Beam Suntory company, which is a major player in the global spirits industry. Beam Suntory has a portfolio of well-known brands and distilleries, including Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark, and Knob Creek.

Old Grand-Dad bourbon has developed a loyal following over the years due to its unique flavor and heritage. It continues to be enjoyed by bourbon enthusiasts who appreciate its bold and spicy characteristics.

What Does Old Grand-Dad Taste Like?

Old Grand-Dad bourbon is known for its distinct flavor profile, which can be described as bold, robust, and spicy. Here are some common tasting notes associated with Old Grand-Dad bourbon:

1. Spicy Rye: Old Grand-Dad has a higher percentage of rye in its mash bill compared to many other bourbons. This imparts a notable spiciness to the flavor profile. You may detect flavors of black pepper, cloves, and cinnamon, adding a lively and invigorating element to the whiskey.
2. Caramel and Vanilla: Alongside the spiciness, Old Grand-Dad exhibits sweet and rich flavors. You might notice notes of caramel and toffee, providing a pleasant sweetness and a touch of decadence. Vanilla flavors can also be present, contributing to a smooth and creamy undertone.
3. Oak and Barrel Influence: Old Grand-Dad spends a significant amount of time aging in new charred oak barrels. This aging process imparts flavors of oak, which can manifest as woody, smoky, or even slightly charred notes. The barrel influence adds depth and complexity to the whiskey’s flavor profile.
4. Warmth and Body: Old Grand-Dad is often described as having a full-bodied character with a warm, lingering finish. The higher proof (typically 100 proof or higher) contributes to a more robust and intense mouthfeel. The whiskey’s higher rye content enhances its overall depth and provides a satisfying complexity.

Are There Any Cool Stories About Old Grand-Dad Bourbon?

Old Grand-Dad bourbon has a few interesting stories and anecdotes associated with it. Here are a couple of notable ones:

1. The Mysterious Disappearance: One intriguing story involving Old Grand-Dad bourbon revolves around a disappearance in 1965. A shipment of Old Grand-Dad barrels was being transported from Kentucky to California. However, somewhere along the journey, the shipment mysteriously vanished. The bourbon was never recovered, and to this day, the exact details surrounding the disappearance remain unknown. It has become a legendary tale in the bourbon community, adding an air of mystery to the brand.
2. The Distiller’s Name: Old Grand-Dad’s namesake, Basil Hayden Sr., was a respected distiller known for his innovative approach to whiskey production. He was particularly fond of using a higher percentage of rye in his mash bill, which eventually became a defining characteristic of Old Grand-Dad bourbon. The name “Old Grand-Dad” was chosen to pay homage to Basil Hayden Sr.’s impact on the bourbon industry and to honor his legacy.
3. The Bonded Tradition: Old Grand-Dad bourbon is known for being a “bonded” whiskey. This means that it meets the requirements set forth in the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897, which is a designation of high quality and authenticity in the whiskey industry. Bonded whiskeys must be produced by one distiller within one distillation season, aged in a federally bonded warehouse for at least four years, and bottled at 100 proof. Old Grand-Dad’s commitment to the bonded tradition reflects its dedication to craftsmanship and quality.

While these stories add charm and intrigue to the Old Grand-Dad brand, it’s important to note that some of them may have been embellished or have become part of bourbon folklore over time. Nevertheless, they contribute to the brand’s allure and make for engaging tales among bourbon enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Old Grand-Dad is more than just a liquid in a glass. It embodies the spirit of those who came before us—visionaries like Basil Hayden Sr.—whose passion for whiskey left an indelible mark on the bourbon industry. With each sip, we pay homage to their legacy and celebrate the artistry and ingenuity that have made Old Grand-Dad a timeless classic.

Cheers!