Embark on a captivating journey through time as we delve into the origins of Ancient Age Bourbon, a spirit steeped in history and intrigue. Discover the intriguing tale of the enigmatic figure behind its creation and uncover the secrets that have made it an iconic symbol of American whiskey.
Key Takeaways:
- Ancient Age Bourbon is a whiskey brand produced in Frankfort, Kentucky, at the Buffalo Trace Distillery.
- It is owned by Age International, Inc., a subsidiary of Takara Shuzo, Ltd., a company headquartered in Kyoto, Japan.
- Ancient Age Bourbon is distilled at the Buffalo Trace Distillery, alongside other notable bourbon brands like Blanton’s, Elmer T. Lee, and Rock Hill Farms.
Who Makes Ancient Age Bourbon?
Ancient Age Bourbon, a revered name in the realm of American whiskey, has captivated enthusiasts with its timeless character. So, who stands behind this iconic spirit, crafting its smooth and distinguished taste? Let’s embark on a journey to discover the makers of Ancient Age Bourbon.
Buffalo Trace Distillery: The Cradle of Liquid History
Nestled in the heart of Frankfort, Kentucky, the Buffalo Trace Distillery holds the distinction of being the oldest continually operating distillery in the United States. Its story intertwines with the very fabric of bourbon history, dating back to 1870 when Colonel Edmund Haynes Taylor Jr. established the O.F.C. Distillery.
Age International, Inc.: Guardians of Tradition
The stewardship of Ancient Age Bourbon lies with Age International, Inc., a subsidiary of Takara Shuzo Ltd. This esteemed Japanese company, headquartered in Kyoto, has a rich history in the world of spirits. Takara Shuzo Ltd.’s commitment to quality and tradition aligns perfectly with the values that have shaped Ancient Age Bourbon over the years.
Takara Shuzo: Blending East and West
Takara Shuzo Ltd.’s acquisition of the Buffalo Trace Distillery in 2014 marked a significant milestone in the history of Ancient Age Bourbon. This union brought together the time-honored traditions of Japanese craftsmanship with the deep-rooted heritage of Kentucky bourbon making.
Master Distillers: Architects of Taste
At the helm of Ancient Age Bourbon’s production stands a team of dedicated master distillers, each possessing an unwavering passion for crafting exceptional whiskey. Their expertise and unwavering commitment to excellence ensure that every bottle of Ancient Age Bourbon embodies the highest standards of quality.
Unveiling the Art of Ancient Age Bourbon
The process of creating Ancient Age Bourbon is a testament to patience and meticulousness. From the selection of the finest corn, rye, and barley to the careful aging process, every step is meticulously overseen. The result is a bourbon that exudes a symphony of flavors, a testament to the dedication of those who bring it to life.
Conclusion
Ancient Age Bourbon stands as a symbol of American whiskey’s rich heritage, a spirit that has captured the hearts of enthusiasts for generations. Behind this iconic brand lies a tapestry of history, tradition, and unwavering dedication to excellence. From the hallowed halls of the Buffalo Trace Distillery to the passionate hands of its master distillers, Ancient Age Bourbon embodies the spirit of innovation and craftsmanship that has defined American whiskey for centuries.
-
Have you ever wondered where the seat of power was in ancient Egypt? Discover the fascinating history of Egypt’s ancient capital by clicking on What was the capital of ancient Egypt.
-
Women have played diverse roles throughout history, and India is no exception. Explore the position of women in ancient India and their contributions to society with this insightful article, Women’s position in ancient India.
-
The role of women in ancient India was complex and varied. Learn how women influenced politics, economics, education, and more by reading Women’s role in ancient India.
The Production Process of Ancient Age Bourbon: A Journey of Time and Tradition
Grab a glass and let’s trace the lineage of Ancient Age Bourbon, a spirit steeped in history and crafted with meticulous care. From grain to glass, the journey of this iconic whiskey is a testament to the enduring legacy of Kentucky bourbon.
The Foundation: Selecting the Finest Ingredients
Like any great masterpiece, Ancient Age Bourbon starts with the finest ingredients. Picture golden cornfields, where kernels are carefully chosen for their sweetness and starch content. Rye and barley add depth and complexity to the mix, creating a harmonious ensemble of flavors.
The Art of Fermentation: A Dance of Yeast and Grains
In the heart of the distillery, a magical transformation takes place. The grains are milled, cooked, and cooled, creating a mash that’s ready for the magic of yeast. These tiny microorganisms dance their way through the mixture, converting sugars into alcohol. It’s a delicate ballet that sets the stage for the bourbon’s distinctive character.
Distillation: Capturing the Spirit
The fermented mash embarks on a journey through copper stills, heated to just the right temperature to extract the precious liquid gold. As vapors rise and condense, a symphony of aromas and flavors emerges, creating the raw spirit that will eventually become Ancient Age Bourbon.
The Long Slumber: Aging in Charred Oak Barrels
Time becomes a patient sculptor in the aging process. The newly distilled spirit is nestled in charred oak barrels, hand-selected for their ability to impart a rich tapestry of flavors. Over years of slumber, the whiskey interacts with the wood, developing its signature smoothness, caramel notes, and hints of vanilla and spice.
Bottling and Blending: The Final Act
When the bourbon reaches its peak maturity, it’s carefully bottled, ready to be shared with the world. Some variations of Ancient Age Bourbon undergo blending, a delicate art that marries different batches, creating a consistent and harmonious taste profile.
Key Takeaways:
- Ancient Age Bourbon is crafted at the historic Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky.
- The production process begins with selecting the finest corn, rye, and barley.
- Fermentation and distillation transform the grains into a raw spirit.
- The bourbon ages for a minimum of three years in charred oak barrels.
- Bottling and blending complete the journey, resulting in a smooth and flavorful whiskey.
Sources:
[1]
[2]
Behind the Scenes of Ancient Age Bourbon: Unveiling the Legendary Spirit
Fancy a sip of history? Ancient Age Bourbon, a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey revered since 1946, beckons you on a captivating journey through time. Let’s venture behind the scenes to meet the masterminds who craft this exceptional spirit.
Key Takeaways:
-
Ancient Age Bourbon: A Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey with a rich history dating back to 1946.
-
Sazerac Company: The current producer of Ancient Age Bourbon, acquiring the brand in 1983.
-
Buffalo Trace Distillery: The birthplace of Ancient Age Bourbon, steeped in tradition and distilling expertise.
-
Mash Bill: A blend comprising corn (72%), rye (18%), and malted barley (10%) forms the foundation of Ancient Age Bourbon.
-
Aging Process: Patient maturation for a minimum of 36 months in new, charred oak barrels imparts depth and complexity.
-
Variants: Ancient Age Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (80 proof), Ancient Age 90 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (90 proof), and Ancient Ancient Age 10 Star Kentucky Star Bourbon Whiskey (90 proof) cater to diverse preferences.
-
Critical Acclaim: Ancient Age Bourbon has garnered praise from connoisseurs for its smooth, approachable flavor profile.
Now, let’s peel back the layers and uncover the secrets behind Ancient Age Bourbon’s allure:
The Sazerac Company: Guardians of Bourbon Heritage
In 1983, the Sazerac Company took the reins of Ancient Age Bourbon, bringing a wealth of experience and dedication to preserving its legacy. Under their stewardship, the brand has flourished, gaining new fans worldwide.
Buffalo Trace Distillery: A Cradle of Bourbon Excellence
Nestled in the heart of Frankfort, Kentucky, the Buffalo Trace Distillery stands as a testament to bourbon-making artistry. Its copper stills and aging warehouses bear witness to the creation of Ancient Age Bourbon, a spirit steeped in tradition and craftsmanship.
The Mash Bill: A Symphony of Grains
The foundation of Ancient Age Bourbon lies in its carefully crafted mash bill. A blend of corn, rye, and malted barley, each grain contributes unique characteristics to the final spirit. Corn provides sweetness, rye adds spice, and malted barley imparts depth and complexity.
The Aging Process: A Journey Through Time
Time plays a pivotal role in shaping Ancient Age Bourbon’s character. The spirit patiently matures for a minimum of 36 months in new, charred oak barrels. During this period, the bourbon extracts flavors and colors from the wood, developing its signature smoothness and richness.
Variants: A Trio of Delights
Ancient Age Bourbon offers a range of expressions to suit every palate. The classic Ancient Age Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (80 proof) strikes a balance between smoothness and boldness. For those seeking a more robust experience, Ancient Age 90 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (90 proof) delivers a higher proof and a more pronounced flavor profile. The Ancient Ancient Age 10 Star Kentucky Star Bourbon Whiskey (90 proof) represents the pinnacle of Ancient Age Bourbon, showcasing exceptional smoothness and complexity.
Critical Acclaim: A Toast to Excellence
Ancient Age Bourbon has garnered widespread recognition for its exceptional quality. Critics have lauded its smooth, easy-to-drink character, praising its versatility in cocktails and its ability to stand alone as a sipping whiskey.
Uncork the Legend: Your Ancient Age Bourbon Journey Awaits
Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon aficionado or just beginning your exploration of this iconic spirit, Ancient Age Bourbon invites you to discover its timeless allure. With its rich history, meticulous craftsmanship, and captivating flavor profile, Ancient Age Bourbon promises an unforgettable tasting experience. Raise a glass and indulge in a sip of history.
Sources:
[1] https://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/our-brands/ancient-age.html
[2]
The impact of Ancient Age Bourbon on the global bourbon market
Now let’s take a deeper look into Ancient Age Bourbon’s impact on a grander scale. Picture this: Ancient Age Bourbon is like a star in the bourbon universe, shining its light on the global stage and leaving a trail of taste enthusiasts in its wake.
Key Takeaways:
-
Ancient Age Bourbon has carved a niche for itself in the cutthroat global bourbon market, capturing the hearts of many with its distinctive flavor profile.
-
Its accessibility and affordability have made it a beloved choice among bourbon connoisseurs worldwide.
-
As a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Ancient Age takes pride in upholding stringent quality standards, further solidifying its reputation as a worthy contender in the global bourbon realm.
-
Ancient Age Bourbon’s commitment to preserving tradition and heritage resonates with consumers, fostering a sense of authenticity and connection that transcends borders.
-
This brand has successfully struck a balance between honoring its legacy and evolving to meet changing consumer preferences, ensuring its continued relevance in the ever-evolving global bourbon market.
Sources:
– https://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/our-brands/ancient-age.html
–
FAQ
Q1: Who currently produces Ancient Age Bourbon?
A1: Ancient Age Bourbon is presently produced by the Sazerac Company, a prominent American producer of spirits. The company acquired the Ancient Age brand in 1983, ensuring its continued production and recognition.
Q2: Where is Ancient Age Bourbon manufactured?
A2: Ancient Age Bourbon is manufactured at the Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky, a state known for its rich bourbon-making heritage. The distillery follows traditional methods and utilizes Kentucky’s natural resources to craft Ancient Age Bourbon’s distinct flavor profile.
Q3: What is the history behind Ancient Age Bourbon?
A3: Ancient Age Bourbon’s origins can be traced back to the early 20th century when it was produced by the Schenley Distilleries Corporation. In 1983, the brand was acquired by Age International, Inc., a subsidiary of Takara Shuzo Ltd., a Japanese company. In 2009, Sazerac Company purchased the brand, marking a new chapter in Ancient Age Bourbon’s journey.
Q4: What are the key ingredients of Ancient Age Bourbon?
A4: Ancient Age Bourbon is crafted using a carefully selected mash bill, which is the mixture of grains used in its production. The mash bill typically consists of a blend of corn, rye, and barley malt. These grains are fermented and distilled to create a spirit that is then aged in charred oak barrels, contributing to its distinct flavor and aroma.
Q5: How long is Ancient Age Bourbon aged?
A5: Ancient Age Bourbon is aged for a minimum of three years in charred oak barrels. This aging process allows the spirit to develop its complex flavors and characteristics, including caramel, vanilla, and oaky notes. The extended aging contributes to the smoothness and richness that Ancient Age Bourbon is known for.
