Old Fitzgerald 9 Year Bottled-in-Bond Wheated Bourbon is a release that commands attention among bourbon lovers, especially those who appreciate wheated mash bills. This spring 2025 edition carries a legacy from Heaven Hill’s respected distillery, packaged in the brand’s signature ornate decanter. The bourbon has an intriguing history tied to its price fluctuations, flavor profile, and consistent 100 proof bottling. Here, we explore what makes this release stand out and what to expect when tasting it.
What Makes Old Fitzgerald 9 Year Bottled-in-Bond Special?
Old Fitzgerald has traditionally based its pricing on the whiskey’s age, but recent releases have seen a change. Since fall 2023, the price and age connection seem less direct. Despite this, Heaven Hill has maintained a reliable twice-yearly schedule for this bottling. The brand sticks with the bottled-in-bond standard, which means 100 proof and strict quality controls, reflecting a commitment to consistency. The 9-year-old age statement offers an interesting balance between youth and maturation for a wheated bourbon.
The mash bill for this bourbon consists of 68% corn, 20% wheat, and 12% malted barley. This composition gives it a softer, sweeter character compared to rye-based bourbons. The wheated style is a signature element of Old Fitzgerald and several Heaven Hill brands, providing a creamy and approachable taste experience.
The Bottle and Price
The bourbon comes in a distinct decanter-style bottle. It’s a nod to the historic branding of Old Fitzgerald and appeals to collectors and casual drinkers alike. The MSRP for this 9-year release is around $130, which places it in the mid to high range for wheated bourbons. Collectors may note the price creep over recent years, but many feel the quality justifies the cost.
Aroma Profile
The nose on this bourbon offers a complex but somewhat uneven experience. Initial scents of caramel are prominent, but with a dry, slightly artificial edge. Spicy notes like black pepper and clove emerge, though they can feel a bit synthetic at times. There are hints of vanilla and fresh dried linen that bring in interesting textures but don’t fully captivate.
With patience, secondary aromas like floral deodorant and burlap add depth. The classic Heaven Hill vanilla shines through as a familiar and comforting scent. However, the aroma can fluctuate during the tasting session, sometimes leaning towards unpleasant notes such as sour cream and onion dip or cracked plastic. These inconsistencies make the nosing experience unpredictable but not without intrigue.
How Does It Taste?
The palate tells a different story than the nose. The first sip surprises with a playful and sweet character, blending lemon curd and green tea flavors. This is followed by rich caramel sauce and flan, creating a smooth, dessert-like profile. Subtle hints of cheesecake and Brazilian chocolate add richness without overwhelming the palate.
This bourbon does not try to impress with complexity but instead excels at a few select flavors. It has a slightly oily and creamy mouthfeel, which makes sipping enjoyable. The moderate 100 proof allows the flavors to shine without harshness, though some tannic and astringent notes develop after a few sips. The bourbon is dynamic but restrained, offering cinnamon hints that are just enough to add spice without dominating.
As you continue sipping, the bourbon shows fruit elements like grilled pineapple and pear liqueur, though these notes are subtle and can shift depending on the tasting moment. The finish is medium to short, with a touch of mint reminiscent of a German wheat beer. It leaves the palate clean but with a gentle sweetness that invites another sip.
Is Old Fitzgerald 9 Year Bottled-in-Bond Worth It?
This release is a mixed bag but still appealing for fans of wheated bourbon. While the nose can be uneven and at times off-putting, the palate delivers a creamy, smooth, and enjoyable drinking experience. The bottle and branding add charm, and the 9-year aging offers a solid middle ground between youthful vibrancy and barrel influence.
For collectors or casual drinkers who appreciate a wheated bourbon with vanilla and caramel notes, this release fits well. Its price is higher than some comparable bourbons, but the experience justifies it for many. The consistent bottled-in-bond proof provides reassurance of quality standards, and the twice-yearly availability means it remains accessible to those who want to revisit it regularly.
How Does It Compare to Other Heaven Hill Wheated Bourbons?
Fans of Heaven Hill’s wheated bourbon lineup often have mixed feelings. While the Larceny range struggles to impress many, Elijah Craig wheated expressions often receive high praise. Old Fitzgerald sits somewhere in between. It doesn’t reach the heights of some premium releases but offers a decent alternative with a distinct personality.
The 9-year Old Fitzgerald shines for those who like a bourbon that doesn’t overwhelm but still provides a pleasant, creamy experience. It’s less complex than the VVS 13-year release, which topped bourbon charts recently, but its twice-yearly presence and familiar profile make it a reliable choice.
Final Tasting Thoughts
The spring 2025 Old Fitzgerald 9 Year Bottled-in-Bond is a bourbon for those who appreciate wheated mash bills and don’t mind a few quirks. The nose requires patience, and the flavors reward that patience with a smooth, dessert-inspired profile that is easy to sip. Its medium finish and consistent bottled-in-bond proof offer a satisfying experience without too much fuss.
While not perfect, this bourbon has enough charm and complexity to justify its place on the shelf. It’s a solid release for collectors, fans of wheated bourbon, or anyone wanting to try a different take from Heaven Hill’s portfolio. Its presentation, taste, and price point combine into a unique offering that continues the Old Fitzgerald legacy into 2025.
