Dusty Finds: Unearthing a 1981 Old Taylor Treasure

The Scotchy Bourbon Boys

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We revisit bourbon history with a special tasting of a 1981 Old Taylor bourbon, which reveals the fascinating journey of this historic brand from Colonel EH Taylor through National Distillers to Jim Beam and eventually back to Buffalo Trace.
• Old Taylor transitioned from its original distillery (now Castle & Key) to Jim Beam production in the 1970s
• This 1981 bottle represents the Jim Beam era when they used their 75% corn/13% rye/12% barley mash bill
• Despite being only 86 proof and 6 years old, this dusty bottle achieves a perfect 18/18 on our rating system
• The profile features burnt caramel corn and candy sweetness with an unexpected maple syrup finish
• Buffalo Trace (Sazerac) eventually purchased the brand back in 2009, bringing it full circle
• Middle West Spirits gets a brief mention for their unique weeded bourbon offerings
• Upcoming events include Walker's farewell party at Amore Restaurant on May 9th
• We'll be visiting Old Homestead, Spirits of French Lick, and Old Carter in upcoming travels
• The Steel Valley Bourbon Association will host a dinner featuring our barrel pick
Join us next week for our special Derby podcast where we'll discuss Old Forrester, Brown-Forman and Woodford Reserve's connections to the Kentucky Derby.
A sip of bourbon history awaits as we uncork a treasured 1981 Old Taylor – a 200ml time capsule gifted for my 60th birthday that connects us to bourbon's fascinating past. This dusty bottle represents a unique moment in Kentucky whiskey history when Jim Beam owned the legendary brand created by Colonel EH Taylor Jr., the father of modern bourbon and champion of the 1897 Bottled-in-Bond Act.
The journey of Old Taylor weaves through Kentucky's bourbon landscape – from Taylor's original distillery (now Castle & Key) through National Distillers during Prohibition, eventually landing at Jim Beam in 1972 where this particular bottle was produced using their classic 75% corn, 13% rye, 12% malted barley recipe. What makes this tasting extraordinary is experiencing how a modest 86-proof, six-year bourbon from four decades ago delivers exceptional quality that rivals today's premium offerings.
Our Old Louisville Whiskey Company Barrel Bottle Breakdown reveals a perfect 18/18 score with remarkable tasting notes: burnt caramel corn aromatics, candy-like sweetness on the palate, and a surprising maple syrup finish that lingers impressively. The viscosity and mouthfeel defy its modest proof, creating an experience that transcends time and connects us directly to bourbon's golden era before the modern whiskey boom.
For bourbon enthusiasts, these dusty treasures offer more than nostalgic sipping – they provide perspective on how distillation, aging, and blending techniques have evolved while highlighting the consistent craftsmanship that defines Kentucky's signature spirit. Whether you're a seasoned collector or curious newcomer, seeking out these liquid time capsules offers a unique window into

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Chapters

1. Introduction & Middle West Spirits (00:00:00)

2. Derby Week & Old Taylor Preview (00:03:43)

3. The History of Old Taylor Bourbon (00:06:19)

4. Old Louisville Whiskey Barrel Breakdown (00:20:31)

5. [Ad] Stardust Stories - Helpful Hands Podcast with Philip Garcia (00:29:25)

6. (Cont.) Old Louisville Whiskey Barrel Breakdown (00:30:15)

7. Upcoming Events & Bourbon Gatherings (00:40:34)

8. Closing & Live Little Stevo (00:50:21)