This seven-yearold 100-proof offering celebrates a heritage that dates back to 1939. Pungent aromas of figs and apricotflavored tobacco are laden with maple. Redolent of butterscotch, the creamy, rich mouthfeel reveals hints of peach cobbler and spiced cedar before a warming finish of apple tart.

In 2018, Heaven Hill discontinued its 6 year old bottled in bond bourbon that was sold only in Kentucky, but now has roared back with this widely available 7 year old. While the bottled in bond designation isn’t necessarily a quality guarantee, this whiskey more than proves its merit. It’s explosive, bold, and buttery, with warm flavors of honey-roasted peanuts, caramel, chocolate, corn muffins, licorice, and cinnamon, all accented by notes of savory herbs, cloves, white pepper, tobacco, and an earthy undertone. Well-integrated big oak, sweetness, and spice combine to create grace, power, and length. This is pure bourbon bliss, at a very approachable price.

Developed to pay homage to the distillery’s history—Heaven Hill first released a bottled-in-bond in 1939. While this 100-proofer presents as citrusy and spicy at first sip, adding water changes the game: it pulls back the alcohol and allows vanilla, caramel and a fleeting mocha hint to emerge. Launched in October 2019.