Heaven Hill is best known for its highly coveted limited-edition bourbons that rise above the whiskey tray. Two notable expressions that have captured the attention of whiskey fans are the Old Fitzgerald 19 Year and the Old Fitzgerald 17 Year.

These age-statement bourbons are bottled-in-bond, which means that the whiskey must be at least four years old in age and bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV). Moreover, it is a product of one distilling season – released twice a year, in the fall and spring.

You will easily notice a spring release by its green label, while a black label indicates a fall release. The maroon label, however, denotes a bottle that is only available in Kentucky. Old Fitzgerald is distinctively made from wheat bourbon mash bill instead of the usual rye. This gives the product its notable, soft, mellow flavor. And Old Fitzgerald is “old” for a reason. Since 2018, Old Fitzgerald Bourbon’s ages range from as low as eight years old to as high as 17 years and even 19 years.

Old Fitzgerald 19 Year

The 19-year-old Old Fitzgerald is the oldest batch of Old Fitz yet released on the market. Heaven Hill released this overly oaky whiskey in the fall of 2022, thus pushing the flavor limits of bourbon. That said, this bourbon is really good. There is some sweet vanilla, nutty cocoa nibs, and hints of coconut on the nose. The palate is redolent in deep, old oak tones, which are slightly musty and earthy. One definitely gets a sense of a well-aged bourbon in the wood here, a testament to the extended maturation process.

No big surprise, at 19 years old, but it’s a note that reveals heightened intensity, and any whiskey lover will appreciate it. Indeed, the texture is luscious and indulgent, with a lingering finish that leaves a trail of toasted oak.

Rich toffee and dark chocolate take center stage, though they’re nicely tempered by spicy oak flavors and lots of baking spice. Interestingly, the baking spice has expressive notes of cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom, adding an alluring depth to the aroma.

Overall, the Old Fitzgerald 19 Year lacks the impeccable balance found in the 17-year-old expression.

Old Fitzgerald 17 Year

Released in Spring 2022 and packaged in one of the most attractive decanter-style bottles, this premium wheated bourbon has a velvety texture on the palate. You’ll also be pleased with the big, weathered oak that is elegantly integrated into the whiskey. There are impressions of cornbread burnt toast, fudge, black cherry, and orange citrus on the nose.

The sweetness of honey and maple syrup mingles with the warmth of baking spices, providing a delightful balance. And the palate is quite rich with flavors of caramel, vanilla, and sweet oak. Throughout the sip, it maintains a well-balanced profile with a combination of sweetness and the richness characteristic of this wheated bourbon.

Compared to Old Fitz 19, this release isn’t overly oaked. The oak is certainly assertive, becoming more dominant on the finish. In addition, the slightly tart quality concludes the sip with a tannic dryness. Overall, the Old Fitzgerald 17 Year exudes a mildly dessert-like quality while also serving as a rather elegant sipping experience. It will be most appreciated by those who enjoy extra-mature bourbon with a significant oak presence.

Old Fitzgerald 19 Year and Old Fitzgerald 17 Year are some of the most sought-after bourbons made from Old Fitzgerald’s original recipe. The bourbons offer a captivating journey through time. Not only is each sip a chapter in the story of maturation, but both expressions reinforce the perception of this particular brand as a luxury drink – a toast to the enduring legacy of Old Fitzgerald.

Old Fitzgerald is a Very Old Bourbon

John E. Fitzgerald was a famous whiskey distiller in the 1870s. He trademarked the name Old Fitzgerald in 1884 and produced the spirit at Old Judge Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky. The Old Judge Distillery was closed during the Prohibition. However, Old Fitzgerald production continued at Stitzel Distillery, which would later merge with Weller post-Prohibition.

The Stitzel-Weller merger saw wheat added to the original Old Fitzgerald’s original recipe. As a result, Old Fitzgerald distinguishes itself from other bourbons as a true wheated bourbon by incorporating wheat as a flavoring grain instead of rye.

Heaven Hill officially purchased the brand in 1999 and continued to produce it as a wheated bourbon. In 2018, Old Fitz got a major upgrade, the highlight being a fancy crystal decanter and the change to a biannual release.

Old Fitzgerald Collector Bottles

If the distillery’s biannual releases are highly sought-after, consider this: Original bottles of Old Fitzgerald are equally coveted. One bottle even fetched for a whopping $ 5,000 at an auction. Collectors fancy these limited-edition bottles because of their ties to the Stitzel-Weller Distillery. They are extremely valuable, but most will cost you anywhere from $500 to $1,000.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is John E Fitzgerald?

John E Fitzgerald distilled spirits along the Kentucky River in the 1870s. He crafted and exclusively sold his finest Bourbon to rail lines, steamships, and private clubs.

Where is the Old Fitzgerald Distillery?

The Old Fitzgerald line boasts a rich distilling pedigree, dating back to 1884. During Prohibition, it was acquired by “Pappy” Van Winkle (the actual man, not the whiskey). Then Heaven Hill purchased the brand in 1999 and commenced distilling it at the Bernheim Distillery in Louisville, KY.

What Distillery Made the Original Old Fitzgerald?

Old Judge Distillery, Frankfort, Kentucky, was the original distillery where Old Fitzgerald was made. The distillery closed due to Prohibition.

Learn More About Old Fitzgerald Bourbons At Heaven Hill

Old Fitzgerald bourbon is an absolute must for novelty-seeking collectors and whiskey historians alike. Most distillery special releases fluctuate a small amount from year to year or season to season. But for Old Fitzgerald’s line of bourbons, those small variations appear utterly inconsequential in comparison. Whether it is the 19 Year or 17 Year, the whiskey produced consistently delivers a gentle and warming taste, making it ideal for leisurely fireside sipping.

Our ultimate guide to the best distilleries offers an insight into the brand’s highly coveted premium bourbons. Dive into DistilleryNearby.com, your one-stop shop for exploring this craft spirits landscape and discovering more about craft cocktails and spirits.