Old Grand Dad 114 Bourbon

Old Grand-Dad 114 is a classic, high-rye Kentucky straight bourbon with a storied past, now produced by Jim Beam. Its origins trace back to distiller Raymond B. Hayden, who named the brand in 1882 to honor his own grandfather, Basil Hayden Sr., a distiller known for his high-rye whiskeys. The 114 proof expression itself was introduced by National Distillers in the 1970s, reportedly as a way to offer a more "premium" product at a higher proof, which was unusual for the time. While the brand has changed hands over its long history, eventually being acquired by Beam Suntory, it maintains a reputation for offering robust flavor at an accessible price point, making it a long-standing favorite among bartenders and bourbon enthusiasts.

Old Grand Dad 114 brings a robust, spicy character to the party, a nod to its high-rye mash bill. You'll find notes of caramel and vanilla mingling with peppery spice and warm oak. That proof means it stands up brilliantly in cocktails where you want the spirit to make its presence known, like a classic Old Fashioned or a spirited Manhattan, making it a versatile player for your home bar.

Expect initial sweet caramel, cherry, and baking spice aromas, followed by dry oak and hot cinnamon. The palate delivers a robust, spicy, and nutty character, reminiscent of jalapeño peanut brittle or cinnamon gum, with underlying notes of oak and leather. A long, warm finish ensues, dominated by lingering hot cinnamon spice and a touch of barrel char.