I recently had the pleasure of trying Ancient Ancient Age 10-Year, and I have to say, it left quite an impression on me. This bourbon is part of the Buffalo Trace Mash Bill #2, which also includes Blanton’s, Elmer T. Lee, and Rock Hill Farms. It’s a bit of a hidden gem, as it’s not as widely known as some of its Mash Bill #2 counterparts, but it’s definitely worth seeking out.
One of the first things I noticed about Ancient Ancient Age 10-Year was its lightproof. At only 43% ABV, it’s not as bold as some other bourbons I’ve tried, but it still packs a flavorful punch. The taste is smooth and easy to drink, with a nice balance of sweetness and spice. I also picked up some fruity and herbal notes, which added an interesting complexity to the overall flavor profile.
Table of Contents
Ancient Ancient Age 10 Year Overview
As a whiskey enthusiast, I was excited to get my hands on a bottle of Ancient Ancient Age 10 Year. This bourbon is a part of the Ancient Age family, which is produced by the Buffalo Trace Distillery. In this section, I will provide a brief overview of this particular whiskey, including its product history and price range.
Product History
Ancient Ancient Age 10 Year is a straight bourbon whiskey that was once available with a 10-year age statement. However, the current bottles no longer carry this statement, and instead, they are labeled “Aged at least 36 months.” This whiskey is produced using the same mash bill as Rock Hill Farms, Eagle Rare, and Elmer T. Lee, which are all part of the Buffalo Trace Mash Bill #2.
Price Range
The price range for Ancient Ancient Age 10 Year varies depending on your location and where you purchase it. In my experience, it is a reasonably priced whiskey, typically ranging from $25 to $40 per bottle. It is essential to note that this whiskey is becoming increasingly difficult to find, so prices may vary.
When it comes to taste, Ancient Ancient Age 10 Year has a unique flavor profile. It features notes of caramel, oak, and rye, along with a fruity and herbal quality that bounces between the different flavors. The finish is smooth and satisfying, making it an excellent choice for sipping neat or on the rocks.
Overall, I would recommend Ancient Ancient Age 10-Year to anyone who enjoys good bourbon. While it may not have the complexity of some of the higher-end whiskeys, it offers a unique flavor profile at a reasonable price point.
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Tasting Notes
As I sipped on a glass of Ancient Ancient Age 10-Year Bourbon, I was struck by the complexity and depth of flavors in this whiskey. Here are my tasting notes, broken down by aroma, flavor, finish, and rating.
Aroma
The aroma of Ancient Ancient Age 10-Year is rich and inviting, with notes of caramel, oak, and rye. As I took a deeper whiff, I also detected hints of baking spices, including cinnamon and clove. The overall effect is warm and comforting, like a freshly baked apple pie.
Flavor
On the palate, Ancient Ancient Age 10-Year is just as complex as it is on the nose. The initial taste is sweet and fruity, with notes of honey, vanilla, and citrus. As the whiskey lingers on the tongue, the spice notes become more prominent, with a slight kick of black pepper and cinnamon. The mash bill #2 used in this bourbon gives it a unique flavor profile that is both bold and balanced.
Finish
The finish of Ancient Ancient Age 10-Year is long and satisfying, with a pleasant warmth that spreads throughout the chest. The flavors of the whiskey continue to evolve even after it has left the mouth, with a lingering taste of cherries and baking spices. I also detected a subtle hint of oak and a touch of sweetness, which rounds out the finish nicely.
Rating
Overall, I would rate Ancient Ancient Age 10-Year Bourbon very highly. It is a well-crafted whiskey that offers a depth of flavor and richness that is hard to find at this price point. While it may not have the same level of complexity as some of the other bourbons in the Buffalo Trace family (such as Blanton’s or Rock Hill Farms), it is still an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality bourbon with a lot of character. I would highly recommend giving Ancient Ancient Age 10-Year a try if you are a fan of bourbon or whiskey in general.
Mixing and Pairing
Best Mixers
When it comes to mixing Ancient Ancient Age 10 Year Bourbon, I prefer to keep it simple. This bourbon has a smooth, mellow flavor with notes of vanilla, oak, and caramel, so I like to pair it with mixers that won’t overpower those flavors. Here are a few of my favorite mixers for Ancient Ancient Age 10 Year:
- Ginger ale
- Lemon-lime soda
- Club soda
- Tonic water
Cocktail Suggestions
If you’re looking to make a cocktail with Ancient Ancient Age 10 Year Bourbon, here are a few suggestions to get you started:
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To make Bourbon Sour: Mix 2 oz. Ancient Ancient Age 10 Year Bourbon, 3/4 oz. lemon juice, and 1/2 oz. simple syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a cherry and a slice of orange.
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To make Manhattan: Mix 2 oz. Ancient Ancient Age 10 Year Bourbon, 1 oz. sweet vermouth, and a dash of bitters in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a cherry.
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To make Old Fashioned: Muddle a sugar cube, a splash of water, and a dash of bitters in a glass. Add ice and 2 oz. Ancient Ancient Age 10 Year Bourbon. Stir well and garnish with a cherry and a slice of orange.
Food Pairings
Ancient Ancient Age 10 Year Bourbon has a rich, complex flavor that pairs well with a variety of foods. Here are a few suggestions:
- Grilled meats: The smoky, charred flavors of grilled meats complement the oaky, caramel notes in Ancient Ancient Age 10 Year Bourbon.
- Dark chocolate: The sweetness of dark chocolate is a great match for the vanilla and caramel flavors in the bourbon.
- Sharp cheeses: Aged cheddar or gouda bring out the nutty, spicy notes in the bourbon.
- Orange-based desserts: The citrus notes in the bourbon pair well with desserts like orange pound cake or orange creamsicle ice cream.
Overall, Ancient Ancient Age 10 Year Bourbon is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a variety of cocktails. With its smooth, mellow flavor and complex notes, it’s a great addition to any home bar.
Conclusion
After trying Ancient Ancient Age 10-Year, I can say that it’s a decent bourbon with some interesting flavors. It has a fruity and herbal taste that is unique and enjoyable. However, the 43% ABV is quite noticeable and the body is not as full as some other bourbons with higher ABV.
One of the best things about this bourbon is its affordability. For around $15-$20, it’s a good value for the price. However, it’s unfortunate that it’s not as widely available anymore.
Overall, I would recommend trying Ancient Ancient Age 10 Year if you’re looking for an affordable and unique bourbon with interesting flavors. However, if you prefer a fuller body and higher ABV, there are better options out there.
