Since its inception in 2007, the World Whiskies Awards (WWA) has firmly established itself as a significant influencer in the global whisky landscape. Celebrating the art of distillation, the WWA serves as a platform for recognizing outstanding spirits, with the annual ceremony generating excitement among enthusiasts and producers alike. The judges, comprised of industry experts, often reveal emerging trends, making their choices a predictive compass for the whisky community. Consider a landmark moment in 2012 when Yamazaki 25 Year Old bagged the title of the best single malt whisky; this accolade catalyzed the Japanese whisky boom, altering the global market significantly.
The most recent WWA event showcased yet again the power and pull of this prestigious competition, particularly in the United States, where bourbons, ryes, and Tennessee whiskies were put to the test. Among the many honors, enthusiasts eagerly sought the coveted top prize of “World’s Best Bourbon.” This year, the spotlight falls on a remarkable 2024 release: Old Fitzgerald Very Very Special (VVS) 13-Year-Old. The recognition of this bourbon reaffirms the continued alliance between historical craftsmanship and modern acclaim in the ever-evolving sphere of whiskey production.
What sets the Old Fitzgerald VVS apart from a myriad of other bourbons? For starters, it occupies a distinguished space in the “decanter series,” a collection that began rolling out in 2018, featuring bottled-in-bond bourbons. Unlike its more frequent sibling green label releases, the maroon label variant of VVS is more elusive, with this being only the third iteration in its history. This exciting expression was met with particular fanfare as it commemorates the 25th anniversary of Heaven Hill’s acquisition of Bernheim Distillery—a milestone that underscores its heritage and dedication to quality.
While the Old Fitzgerald brand has been a fixture in the bourbon world since 1870, the 2024 release of VVS showcases a 13-year maturation process, utilizing barrels distilled in 1999 and ultimately emptied just shy of its 14th birthday. Heaven Hill has employed an innovative approach: after recognizing the bourbon’s potential at the critical juncture of nearly 14 years, they opted to allow the spirit to rest in non-reactive vessels. This decision halted any further aging while preserving the nuanced character developed over the years.
For connoisseurs, the true magic of Old Fitzgerald VVS lies within its tasting notes, which blend complexity and depth into an unforgettable sensory journey. The nose reveals enticing hints of baked orchard fruit layered with sweet, caramelized brulee and an inviting embrace of cinnamon. Upon tasting, a remarkable depth unfolds; the bourbon’s palate envelops drinkers in luxurious textures and tastes, featuring notes of leather, candied plum, and a subtle warmth of smoldering cedar.
The finish is a slow, lasting experience, inviting one to savor the residual flavors of pipe tobacco and barrel char, culminating in a pleasing mouthfeel that lingers. As this expression is crafted with a wheated mashbill—composed of 68% corn, 20% wheat, and 12% malted barley—it sets itself apart within a family of bourbons that many aficionados hold in high regard. Labels such as Pappy Van Winkle and WL Weller are often mentioned alongside Old Fitzgerald due to the rare quality and craftsmanship that goes into creating each pour.
However, with rarity comes a significant price tag, and the Old Fitzgerald VVS 2024 release reflects this reality. Debuting at a suggested retail price of $230, it has since skyrocketed to five times that amount on the secondary market, positioning it alongside the most sought-after bourbons. This raises questions about accessibility and the commodification of fine spirits as collectors scramble to secure their bottles.
As the WWA continues to highlight exceptional spirits, and as brands like Old Fitzgerald receive accolades, we can anticipate the subsequent ripple effects in the whisky market. The rising admiration of craft distilleries and their distinctive offerings will only continue to shape consumer preferences and industry practices.
Old Fitzgerald Very Very Special represents not only a noteworthy achievement in craftsmanship but also embodies the future possibilities within the bourbon sector. The celebration of such unique expressions strengthens its narrative and positions it as a worthy contender in the pantheon of great American whiskies. For both enthusiasts and collectors, the compelling saga of Old Fitzgerald is just beginning.
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