When it comes to finding exceptional bourbon that balances quality and price, "Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond" has made an undeniable mark on the spirits world.
As a bourbon enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for that rare find—a $50 bottle that can rival $150 bottles or more. Heaven Hill’s Bottled-in-Bond release checks every box, delivering complex flavors, quality aging, and a commitment to authenticity that’s rare at this price point.
In 2019, Heaven Hill introduced this 6-year-old bourbon, adding to their storied lineup with a release that fully meets the Bottled-in-Bond Act standards: aged a minimum of four years, distilled by a single distillery during a single season, and bottled at exactly 100 proof. But it’s not just the regulation that makes it impressive—it’s the rich, balanced flavor profile, featuring notes of vanilla, caramel, and toasted oak. Every sip showcases the quality Kentucky bourbon craftsmanship that Heaven Hill is known for.
In my experience, Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond goes toe-to-toe with premium bottles, offering depth, complexity, and smoothness typically reserved for more expensive bourbons. For those seeking top-shelf quality without the hefty price tag, this bourbon is a standout choice. Read on as I delve into the tasting notes, value comparisons, and why Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond deserves a place in your collection.
Heaven Hill Distillery Legacy
Founded in 1935 in Bardstown, Kentucky, Heaven Hill Distillery is one of the most respected names in the American whiskey industry.
The distillery has been family-owned for decades, passing down generations of distilling expertise. Heaven Hill’s portfolio includes some of the most iconic brands in bourbon, such as Evan Williams, Old Fitzgerald, and Elijah Craig. Their commitment to producing high-quality bourbon at accessible prices has helped establish their products as staples in both the craft distilling scene and among seasoned whiskey collectors.
The Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond Bourbon was first released as a part of the distillery’s long-standing commitment to the bottled-in-bond category. Despite some recent packaging changes and production shifts, the bourbon remains a tribute to the distillery’s focus on tradition, while continuing to resonate with modern bourbon enthusiasts.
Production Process and Mash Bill
Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond Bourbon follows the strict requirements of the Bottled-in-Bond Act.
The bourbon is crafted using a traditional mash bill that consists of 78% corn, 12% malted barley, and 10% rye. This high-corn mash bill contributes to its characteristic sweetness, while the rye adds a touch of spice. The bourbon is aged for a minimum of seven years in charred oak barrels, which helps develop the depth and complexity of its flavor profile.
The distillation process is carried out using traditional methods, including the use of copper pot stills, which ensure a pure and robust spirit. Heaven Hill also emphasizes using their distinctive Kentucky climate and proprietary warehouse management techniques, with the bourbon being aged in barrels that interact with the local environment to enhance its unique flavor profile.
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Tasting Notes
Appearance
In the glass, Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond Bourbon presents a warm, amber hue with golden highlights. This deep color is a testament to its seven years of aging in charred oak barrels, allowing the bourbon to fully develop and integrate its flavors.
Aroma
The nose is a delightful mix of classic bourbon scents. Vanilla and caramel dominate initially, followed by subtle undertones of oak, toasted nuts, and light spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. There’s also a hint of dried fruit, offering complexity and balance to the sweetness.
Flavor Profile
On the palate, Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond opens with rich notes of vanilla and caramel, delivering a warm, slightly sweet start. The mid-palate showcases deeper flavors of toasted oak and baking spices, thanks to the extended interaction with charred barrels. Hints of butterscotch, dark chocolate, and a touch of tobacco round out the flavor, offering a well-balanced experience that combines sweetness, spice, and a mild earthy depth.
Finish
The finish is long and satisfying, with lingering notes of oak, peppery rye spice, and a touch of charred wood. There’s a pleasant warmth that builds as it fades, making each sip memorable without overwhelming the senses.
Related: Four Roses Single Barrel Bourbon Review
Comparison to Other Bottled-in-Bond Offerings
In the world of bottled-in-bond bourbons, Heaven Hill stands out for both its price and quality.
When compared to other bottled-in-bond options such as Evan Williams Bottled in Bond or Old Fitzgerald Bottled in Bond, Heaven Hill’s version holds its own with a slightly more mature, nuanced profile due to its seven-year age statement. Evan Williams Bottled in Bond, for instance, offers a great introduction to the style with a more youthful vibrancy, while Old Fitzgerald is known for its high wheat content, which results in a softer, more mellow profile.
Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond’s flavor complexity places it alongside other respected bottled-in-bond bourbons such as Henry McKenna 10-Year Single Barrel. However, Heaven Hill’s higher corn mash bill gives it a more pronounced sweetness compared to Henry McKenna’s spicier, oakier characteristics.
Expert Opinions and Consumer Ratings
Whiskey experts consistently praise Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond for its balance, value, and traditional bourbon flavors.
Fred Minnick, a renowned whiskey critic, noted that the bourbon is a “rich, no-nonsense option for fans of bold, traditional bourbon profiles.” Similarly, consumer reviews highlight its strong vanilla and caramel notes, along with its approachable price point.
On platforms like Whiskey Advocate and Distiller.com, Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond regularly garners high ratings, often scoring between 88 and 92 points. Consumers appreciate its rich flavors, affordable price, and classic Kentucky bourbon profile. Many describe it as an excellent value for its quality, especially when compared to similarly aged bourbons that can be significantly more expensive.
Price Point and Availability
One of the standout features of Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond is its price.
Typically retailing around $40–$50, it offers exceptional value for a bourbon with a seven-year age statement and bottled-in-bond pedigree. This price makes it an attractive option for both casual bourbon drinkers and collectors alike. However, depending on location, availability can sometimes be limited, as its popularity continues to grow.
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Where It Fits in the Bourbon Market
Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond occupies a unique position in the broader bourbon market.
With its high quality, affordable price, and adherence to the strict bottled-in-bond standards, it appeals to a wide range of consumers. It serves as an excellent introduction for newcomers to the world of craft distilling and bottled-in-bond whiskeys, while also satisfying the palates of seasoned bourbon drinkers who appreciate a rich, traditional profile.
Compared to more premium Heaven Hill offerings like the Old Fitzgerald Bottled in Bond series or even the Elijah Craig Small Batch, the Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond offers a more straightforward, accessible experience without sacrificing depth or complexity. This positions it as a versatile bourbon that can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in classic whiskey cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan.
Final Thoughts: Strengths and Drawbacks
Strengths
- Outstanding Value: For a seven-year-old, 100-proof bourbon, the price is hard to beat.
- Classic Bourbon Profile: Vanilla, caramel, oak, and spice are beautifully balanced, offering a rich, satisfying flavor.
- Bottled-in-Bond Authenticity: The adherence to the 1897 Bottled-in-Bond Act guarantees quality and consistency.
Drawbacks
- Availability: Depending on your location, this bourbon can be somewhat hard to find due to its growing popularity.
- Bold Profile: While many bourbon lovers enjoy its strong, bold flavors, it may be slightly too intense for those new to bourbon.
Try it for yourself! — Conclusion
For bourbon enthusiasts and collectors, Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond Bourbon is a must-try for its remarkable balance, quality, and adherence to tradition.
For casual drinkers, its approachable price and well-rounded flavor make it an excellent entry point into the world of higher-proof and bottled-in-bond bourbons. Whether you’re savoring it neat or using it to elevate a cocktail, Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond offers a premium experience at an unbeatable value.
Heaven Hill 7yo, Bottled in Bond, Bottle codes: 17 23 333 2218 11 and A0724052, 50% ABV.
USD $49 (£39) paid, domestic US availability.
Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond Bourbon: A Comprehensive Review
