Old Commonwealth 10yr Bourbon
A Heritage Revival That Packs a Punch
If there’s one bourbon that deserves a toast to both history and modern refinement, it’s the 2024 Old Commonwealth 10-Year Bourbon. This bourbon’s release not only revives a storied Kentucky brand but also elevates the drink itself to truly celebratory levels. Let’s break down what makes this release special and why it’s a must-try for bourbon fans who appreciate a blend of history, depth, and just the right amount of kick.
A Quick Stroll Through Bourbon History
Though “quick” isn’t quite my speed for bourbon history! The Old Commonwealth Distillery has deep roots, dating back to 1889 when S.O. Hackley founded it. In 1893, he partnered with Ike and George Hoffman, rebranding as Hoffman and Hackley Distillery, then sold his shares the next year, making it Hoffman Distilling Company. The Hoffmans launched iconic brands like Old Hoffman and Old Spring, but by 1916, the distillery had shuttered due to bankruptcy. 1920 rolls in and, well, we know what happened there!
In 1934, brothers Robert and Ezra Ripy purchased the property after Prohibition, rebuilding and continuing under the Hoffman name. These “bourbon barons” drove a booming period, creating a variety of whiskeys, including the Ezra Brooks label, by the late ’60s. In 1983, Julian Van Winkle III revived the site as Commonwealth Distillery, bottling rare barrels that would become world-renowned.
After production paused in 2002 and the Van Winkles moved operations to Buffalo Trace, the Old Commonwealth distillery remained dormant until 2019, when bourbon aficionados Zachary Joseph, Andrew English, and Troy LeBlanc breathed new life into it. Their 10-year cask-strength bourbon is a tribute to Old Commonwealth’s legacy, proudly reclaiming its place in Kentucky bourbon lore.
First Impressions: The Bottle That Means Business
The 2024 release comes in a classic, no-nonsense green-tinted bottle that feels heavy in the hand. Simple labeling lets the rich amber bourbon do the talking, and the bold “130 proof” declaration on the front signals you’re in for a robust experience. This isn’t a bottle that begs for attention with flashy designs; it’s straightforward, just like the whiskey inside. Old Commonwealth wants you to know you’re about to sip something serious.
The Pour: Rich and Visually Stunning
Pouring a glass of this bourbon is like watching liquid caramel cascade into your glass. The 10 years of aging show in the deep golden color that glows against the light. It clings to the glass with legs that seem to go on forever, hinting at the mouthfeel and complexity to come.
Nose: Dark and Decadent with a Fruity Edge
On the nose, Old Commonwealth 10-Year makes quite the first impression. Notes of cherry syrup, ripe plums, and a touch of marzipan sweetness greet you. Just beneath these rich layers lies a dark chocolate undertone, along with a hint of oak, thanks to those 10 years in charred American oak barrels
Palate: Bold and Full-Bodied
This bourbon’s high proof doesn’t just add warmth; it elevates the entire tasting experience. The first sip opens with intense flavors of cherry pie filling, balanced by hints of buttered pastry. As it sits on the tongue, flavors of caramel, toasted oak, and spice come forward, while just a touch of dried fruit keeps the sweetness in check. The depth here is incredible, making each sip slightly different as the warmth unfolds.
Finish: A Kentucky Goodbye That Lasts and Lasts
The finish is classic Kentucky bourbon with a twist. It’s long, dry, and layered with notes of leather and a slightly smoky tobacco note that gives way to a lingering touch of cherry. The warmth remains long after the last sip, a gentle reminder of its high proof and expert aging. It’s a bourbon that sticks with you, both in taste and memory.
Final Thoughts: Old Commonwealth 10-Year, A Toast with a Twist
Old Commonwealth 10-Year delivers bold flavors and a rich, complex finish, but there’s a catch: it’s sourced from another distillery. This feels like a letdown for a brand with a deep heritage, even though the first batch only produced 250 bottles. I snagged a bottle in excitement, only to discover in the fine print that it wasn’t distilled at Old Commonwealth.
While the whiskey itself impresses, sourcing and blending seem to be the brand’s focus for now—a bittersweet reality for those hoping for a legacy-driven product. Sold out at retail, it’s now a secondary market find, but is it worth the premium? Not quite.
Cheers to a dram good time! 🥃✨
The Details:
Proof: 131.8 • Distillery: Undisclosed • Mashbill: 75% Corn • 15% Rye • 10% Barley • Aged: 10yrs •Price: $199
Brown Water Rating Scale:
Nose: 4 • Palate: 4 • Finish: 5 • Uniqueness: 2 • Value: 2 • Overall: 3.4
This is a 5-point scale based on my own preferences. This was also tested by my father-in-law, another whiskey lover. 