Introduction
In today’s review, we’re diving into the Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon Whiskey, Fall 2023 release. This semiannual release from Heaven Hill is a resurrection of an old brand that has been elevated to super-premium status. The bottle we're reviewing clocks in at 8 years old, a noticeable decrease from earlier releases that ranged between 10 and 19 years of aging. However, the price remains high at an MSRP of $110, though it’s hard to find at that price due to high demand, with secondary market prices reaching up to $400.
The mash bill consists of 68% corn, 20% wheat, and 12% malted barley, similar to what you'd find in Lux Row’s Rebel bourbon.
Now, let’s see how this release stacks up!
The following review was taken from our episode "Oppenheimer / Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond." Click the link to listen to this review in audio format.
Nose
Brad: The nose on this bad boy is like a freshly opened cherry soda. There's caramel, red licorice, and vanilla, with some really nice almond notes as it opens up. I really like it—I'm giving the nose an 8/10.
Bob: I was also at an 8 initially, but after hearing Brad's notes, I think I’ll come up to an 8.5/10. It’s a much more complex nose than I first thought, with bright notes of summer fruit like Granny Smith apple, peach, and pear. Plus, there’s a hint of cinnamon stick in there too.
Taste
Brad: The cherry soda note carries through on the palate, and it’s very effervescent and bubbly. There’s a strong cherry flavor along with almond, which almost turns into caramelized peanut brittle with a bit of nuttiness. I’m bumping my score up to 8.5/10.
Bob: It stays in that brighter, fruitier camp for me. It reminds me of an Irish whiskey, with lime zest, peach, and pear. The biggest issue for me is the thin mouthfeel and a bitterness that hits at the back of the palate. It almost turns into that cigarette ash flavor we talk about sometimes. I’m giving it a 7.5/10.
Finish
Brad: The finish is where it loses some traction for me. The cherry and almond notes stick around, and it gets a bit cinnamony. However, it’s thin and doesn’t last long enough to fully enjoy the flavors. I’m giving the finish a 7.5/10.
Bob: The bitterness mellows out on the finish, leaving a char note but also those sweet summer fruit waves coming back. It’s a mouthwatering finish, medium to long-lasting. I’m giving it an 8/10.
Balance
Brad: I’m giving it a 7/10 for balance. While it does some things well, it lacks complexity, and the experience is a bit uneven. I wanted more depth.
Bob: I agree. The balance isn’t quite there—each component is good but doesn’t elevate the whole experience. It feels like it can’t decide between summer fruit or autumnal oak. I’m giving it a 7/10 as well.
Value
Brad: The value is tricky. At MSRP of $110, I’d give it a 6/10 because it's good, but not great for the price. However, on the secondary market, where prices soar to $400, it’s not worth it at all. For that, I’m giving it a 4/10.
Bob: I’m going even lower at 3/10. Even if you manage to find it for $200, it’s still not worth that price when there are better options like the Bardstown Bourbon Company’s offerings.
Final Scores
- Brad’s Score: 35/50
- Bob’s Score: 34/50
- Combined Total: 34.5/50
Conclusion
At Film & Whiskey, we recommend trying a pour at a bar or buying a bottle if it scores above 35/50. A score of 40/50 is considered great, and 45/50 is excellent. With a combined score of 34.5/50, the Fall 2023 release of Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon doesn’t quite meet our recommendation. While it’s a solid whiskey, it simply doesn’t justify its price, especially in the luxury category. If you get a chance to try it from a friend or at a bar, it’s worth a pour—but we can’t recommend shelling out the cash for a full bottle.
