Old Fitzgerald

Old Fitzgerald is a brand of bourbon whiskey distilled in Louisville, Kentucky. The brand was first established in 1870 by John E. Fitzgerald, and has since become a staple in the world of American whiskey.

History

The Old Fitzgerald brand was first established by John E. Fitzgerald in 1870. Fitzgerald was a bonded treasury agent, which allowed him to legally carry keys to the barrel storage warehouses. He was known for his discerning palate, and would use his keys to access the warehouses and select only the finest barrels for his brand. This practice led to the creation of the "private selection" process, which is still used by many distilleries today.

In 1999, the brand was purchased by Heaven Hill Distilleries, who continue to produce Old Fitzgerald using the original recipe. This includes a mash bill with a high percentage of wheat, which gives the whiskey its distinctive sweet and smooth flavor.

Production

Old Fitzgerald is made using a process known as the bourbon production process. This involves distilling a mash bill of at least 51% corn, along with other grains such as wheat and barley. The whiskey is then aged in new, charred oak barrels for a minimum of two years.

One unique aspect of Old Fitzgerald's production is its use of a high percentage of wheat in the mash bill. This is known as a "wheated bourbon", and results in a smoother, sweeter flavor compared to bourbons made with a higher percentage of rye.

Tasting Notes

Old Fitzgerald is known for its smooth, sweet flavor profile. On the nose, it offers notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. The palate is rich and full-bodied, with flavors of honey, butter, and a hint of spice. The finish is long and warming, with a lingering sweetness.

See Also

• Bourbon whiskey
• Heaven Hill Distilleries
• John E. Fitzgerald