To mark the 100th anniversary of its iconic horse breeding legacy, Calumet Farm has released a commemorative lineup of whiskeys, including its oldest expression to date: the 18-Year-Old Centennial Bourbon. Bottled by Three Springs Bottling Company for Western Spirits and sourced from Barton 1792, this limited-edition release arrives in a trophy-style decanter and carries an MSRP of $499.99. It’s not just a bourbon, it’s a statement piece, both in presentation and profile. But how does the whiskey inside this ornate bottle hold up after nearly two decades of aging? Let’s pour and find out.
A Quick Look at the Specs
- Distillery: Sourced from Barton 1792
- Bottler: Three Springs Bottling Co. for Western Spirits
- Type: Kentucky Straight Bourbon
- Mash Bill: 74% corn, 18% rye, 8% malted barley
- Proof: 118
- Age: 18 years
- MSRP: $499.99
- Special Label: Centennial “Trophy Decanter” Release
The Nose: A Dance of Leather, Oak, and Spice
Before even raising the glass, this bourbon commands presence. It fills the air with rich, wood-forward aromatics, suggesting intense age and depth. A first inhale brings deep oak and pepper, soon followed by worn leather and cherry oil, setting a rugged yet elegant tone.
There’s something nostalgic about it, like stepping into an old saloon after the music has died down. Bourbon staples follow with Tahitian vanilla, soft caramel chews, and a gentle flick of Ceylon cinnamon. With patience, more delicate aromas begin to emerge—dried apricots, raisins, and later a creamier layer with buttercream frosting and baked apple cake.
Each stage of nosing reveals a shift in tone. Where the beginning is bold and spicy, the mid-glass evolves into something softer and more layered. The finish lingers in the air with notes of hookah tobacco, tootsie rolls, and earthy Kentucky clay, leaving a complex and lasting olfactory memory.
The Palate: Bold, Spicy, and Fruit-Forward
From the first sip, the Calumet Farm 18-Year Bourbon asserts its strength. Before the swallow, you’ll feel a prickle on your lips and tongue. Then, boom—dark cherries, baking spice, and a touch of peppery heat flood the mouth.
As the heat settles, additional layers appear: powdered sugar, green apple skin, and a subtle edge of burnt butterscotch. The complexity is impressive, with dark chocolate emerging after a few more sips. Think 90% cacao, slightly bitter, grounding the sweeter elements with depth.
The bourbon maintains a balanced structure, though the oak is heavy, at times overshadowing the fleeting fruit notes. It’s a robust, spice-forward experience that benefits from slow sipping and occasional dilution. Just a few drops of water open up more sweetness and allow the cherry tones to breathe.
Mouthfeel and Finish
What stands out most is the consistency and body. The mouthfeel is velvety and dense, offering a slow, even progression of flavors across the palate.
The finish leans dry and spicy, with a tang that might remind some of mustard on a mushroom burger. Not everyone’s cup of tea, but undeniably unique. The final sips carry less momentum than the opening ones, but they still leave a warm glow and a sense of closure—like the final act of a long-running play.
When and How to Enjoy
This is not a casual, everyday bourbon. Its 118 proof demands patience and possibly a few drops of water for balance. It shines best in thoughtful, celebratory settings. Pair it with rare steak, roasted meats, or aged cheese for a full-bodied experience.
Given the price and presentation, it’s perfect for:
- Milestone birthdays
- Graduation celebrations
- Bourbon tastings among enthusiasts
- Holiday gifts for collectors
Its trophy decanter is fit for display, while the bourbon inside rewards those who spend time exploring its layers.
Value and Verdict
At $499.99, the Calumet Farm 18-Year Bourbon sits firmly in the luxury category. Is it worth the price? That depends on what you’re looking for. As a bourbon, it offers a strong showing of craftsmanship, aged character, and flavor depth.
If you’re a fan of Barton 1792 distillate, you’ll appreciate its structure and complexity, though it does drink a little hotter than the proof suggests. Those sensitive to barrel-forward profiles may find the oak a bit too dominant, but fruit and spice lovers will likely savor the play of flavors.
As a commemorative bottle, it succeeds on all fronts—heritage, packaging, and palate. It may not be a daily sipper, but it’s a whiskey that tells a story, celebrates a century of excellence, and commands respect on any shelf.
Rating: 4 out of 5
Aged with care, bold in flavor, and worthy of celebration.
If you’re still unsure whether to pull the trigger on a bottle, consider this: it’s one of those pours that grows on you with every session. Give it time, pair it right, and you might just find a new favorite in this centennial tribute.
