Ancient Ancient Age 10 year Review

Buffalo Trace's mashbill #2 has given the world some great bourbons. Blanton's, Elmer T. Lee, Rock Hill Farms, and even some Bowman bourbons all come from that line. Ancient Age is one of the lesser known products that come from that mash bill which is probably due to its bottom shelf status. Hidden in the Ancient Age line though was a little gem most don't know about: Ancient Ancient Age 10 year (not to be confused with 10 star which is only aged 6 years). It was only offered in a few markets and mostly only available in Kentucky. It came aged stated and sold for less than $20 for bottle. Sadly though it has since been discontinued and is all but gone from the shelves even in Kentucky. I found this bottle at a small dilapidated shop in Bowling Green. This bottle is from 90's before Buffalo Trace took over bottling but the juice itself should be the same.

43% ABV; Aged 10 years; $10 (375ml)

On the nose there is lots of sharp oak with some citrus rind and a little menthol spice. It does not smell like a cheap bourbon - in fact it has some notes of a rather sophisticated one but it is somewhat thin. The taste is largely a reinforcement of the nose and again a little thin. There is some light sweetness in the form of caramel and the finish lingers with slightly darker sweet notes. Throughout the whole palate there are the typical rye spice flavors you find in mash bill #2. Anise, menthol, mint - it's all there. The balance of sweet and spice is well done.

Thoughts: This is a really good budget pour. This might be sacrilegious to say but at this price point I probably favor this over Four Roses yellow label. Everything I've read says this line was discontinued due to lack of demand but given the quality I can't for the life of me figure out why. If you are fan of the other mash bill #2 offerings this one is basically a much cheaper albeit lower proof version of those.
Rating: B-