Very Old Barton 100 Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (750ml)

"Brilliant bourbon of the intense yet sophisticated variety." - Jim Murray

'Very Old Barton' is shaking up the bottom shelf of whiskey stores, offering an acclaimed Bourbon at a budget price. Previously known as Bottled In Bond, this is said to be the same juice with a slightly updated label, released at least four years old (historically it was closer to six). The change is likely due to the economics of creating an affordable Bourbon during a whiskey boom, however it doesn't seem to have affected the quality. 'VOB' is clearly one of the last holdouts in a price bracket that rarely rouses our interest. And if you follow Jim Murray, it's nothing short of an American Whiskey bargain. Very limited stocks. 50% Alc./Vol.

Other reviews... Here's a challenge for you: find fault with this whiskey... Brilliant bourbon of the intense yet sophisticated variety. 96 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2023

...The nose is dominated by dusty oak notes that are, at first, pretty burly, but the alcohol never comes across as overly punchy. With only a little air time, a light butterscotch and vanilla bean sweetness builds, along with a distinct dusting of cinnamon sugar. The palate cuts a pretty classic initial profile with brown sugar and baking spice. It’s on the lighter side, but there’s still an oily chewiness that imparts more body than your typical bottom shelf offerings. The heat comes hard and fast up front, but it recedes just as the flavors begin to build into the mid-palate with a glimmer of dark cherry and a subtle milk chocolate note hanging on into the medium-length finish... The word is out, so it’s getting harder and harder to come by. I won’t be surprised if Sazerac eventually brings back the six-year age-statement and the “bottled-in-bond” designation…and triples the price. Until then, this one remains one of the better bargain bourbons out there. - drinkhacker.com