At Film & Whiskey, we’re always on the hunt for unique whiskey experiences, and Old Line Spirits has quickly become one of our favorite American single malt producers. Previously, we reviewed their Navy Strength American Single Malt and were blown away. Today, we’re diving into three more offerings from Old Line: their Bottled-in-Bond American Single Malt, Double-Oaked Port Finish, and Madeira Finish. Each comes in at 100 proof, showcasing their dedication to robust flavor. Let’s break them down whiskey by whiskey.
These reviews are taken from our episode "Scoring Alfred Hitchcock / Old Line Spirits." Click the link to listen to the reviews in audio format.
Old Line Bottled-in-Bond American Single Malt
Introduction
We kicked things off with Old Line's Bottled-in-Bond American Single Malt. Bottled-in-bond means it’s at least four years old and distilled in one season, and it adheres to the strict guidelines for this classification. Old Line’s use of both copper pot and column stills brings complexity to their 100% malted barley mash.
Nose
Brad: This one has a really pleasant nose with notes of orange zest, caramel, and a hint of fresh-baked bread. There’s also some fruitiness, making it complex yet approachable.
Bob: I totally agree. I was struck by how sweet and vanilla-forward this was—something unexpected for American single malts, which often lean earthy or herbal. There’s a youthful graininess here, but it’s balanced by floral notes like rose petal and melon.
Taste
Brad: The palate surprised me with a note that reminded me of Strawberry Nerds candy. It was sweet, crisp, and compelling, with plenty of vanilla and a touch of oak.
Bob: I found this to be incredibly balanced. Green apple and caramel hit first, followed by toasted oak and nuttiness. It almost mimicked the profile of a well-aged bourbon at times.
Finish
Brad: The finish brought in oak and leather with a slightly weedy quality. It lingered just enough to keep me intrigued.
Bob: I picked up a subtle hoppiness, almost like an IPA, along with malt that took center stage. It had a refreshing, almost beer-like quality that added to the complexity.
Final Score
Brad: I’d give this a 38/50. It’s a rock-solid American single malt with a lot to offer.
Bob: For me, it’s closer to a 35/50, but still a great example of what Old Line is doing right.
Old Line Double-Oaked Port Finish American Single Malt
Introduction
Next, we tried the Double-Oaked Port Finish. This whiskey is aged for five years and then spends an additional year and a half in port wine barrels, imparting rich, dark flavors.
Nose
Brad: Right from the start, I got a deep sense of darkness—stone fruits, cherry, and even a hint of grape juice. There was also an anise note that added complexity, though it wasn’t my favorite part.
Bob: The first thing I wrote was "dark molasses." It had a more bourbon-like quality than the Bottled-in-Bond, with strong notes of brown sugar, caramel, and oak.
Taste
Brad: The palate delivered on the nose's promise of depth. I found dark cherry and vanilla alongside more subtle fruity notes.
Bob: Tons of oak and sawdust complemented by citrus and apple. This was an explosion of flavor, leaning heavily into bourbon territory while keeping its malt backbone.
Finish
Brad: The finish leaned fruity and vanilla-forward, rounding out the palate nicely.
Bob: It turned slightly sour on the finish for me, like toasted oak, but it remained enjoyable.
Final Score
Brad: I’d rate this a 37/50, just a touch below the Bottled-in-Bond.
Bob: This one hit a high note for me at 39/50. The port influence added so much depth.
Old Line Madeira Finish American Single Malt
Introduction
Finally, we arrived at the Madeira Finish, which spends five years aging before an additional 1.5 years in Madeira wine casks. This whiskey divided us more than any of the others.
Nose
Brad: To me, this leaned too heavily into its fortified wine influence. It smelled more like wine than whiskey, which isn’t my preference.
Bob: That’s exactly what I loved about it. The nose was syrupy and rich, with maple, figs, and dark grapes. It reminded me of an Ambarana-finished whiskey with its floral undertones.
Taste
Brad: The palate leaned earthy and dark, with plenty of fruitiness. But again, the wine notes overwhelmed the whiskey for me.
Bob: It was incredibly malty and herbal, with layers of maple syrup and brown sugar. It tasted like an Old Fashioned made with maple syrup—a Canadian Old Fashioned, if you will.
Finish
Brad: The finish stayed earthy and fruity but lacked the balance I was hoping for.
Bob: I found the finish to be long and complex, with hints of floral sweetness that kept me coming back for more.
Final Score
Brad: I’d give this a 30/50. It just didn’t land for me.
Bob: This was by far my favorite, clocking in at 45/50. The Madeira influence made it a standout.
Final Thoughts
Old Line Spirits has proven once again why they’re one of the leaders in the American single malt movement. While we differed on our favorites, all three whiskeys showcased the brand’s creativity and dedication to quality. For us, the 35/50 mark is where we start recommending a pour at a bar or even buying a bottle. Both the Bottled-in-Bond and Double-Oaked Port Finish clear that threshold with ease, while the Madeira Finish might be more divisive, depending on your palate.
If you’re curious about American single malt, Old Line is a brand you absolutely need to explore.
FAQ
What is the price range for Old Line Spirits' American single malts?
Prices typically range from $50 to $80, depending on the expression and finish.
How do Old Line’s whiskeys compare to Scotch or Irish single malts?
Old Line’s whiskeys are sweeter and more robust, often due to aging in new charred oak barrels rather than used barrels.
Which Old Line whiskey is best for a first-time buyer?
The Bottled-in-Bond American Single Malt is a great entry point, offering classic flavors with a balanced profile.
Are the finished whiskeys worth trying?
Absolutely. The Double-Oaked Port Finish delivers rich, dark flavors, while the Madeira Finish offers a more unique, wine-heavy experience.
Where can I buy Old Line Spirits whiskey?
Old Line Spirits is available at select retailers and through their website for direct shipping in certain states.
