This is the first-generation label of what is now 1792 Bourbon, launched by Barton in 2002 as Ridgewood Reserve 1792. The name lasted only a couple of years, which makes these early bottles an interesting piece of Kentucky bourbon history for anyone who follows label changes.
About This Bourbon
Barton released Ridgewood Reserve 1792 as an 8 year old small-batch bourbon at 93.7 proof, made from its high-rye recipe. Brown-Forman sued, arguing that the name and bottle were too close to its Woodford Reserve, and a federal judge sided with Brown-Forman in 2004. Barton renamed the whiskey 1792 Ridgemont Reserve, later shortened it to 1792 Bourbon, and dropped the 8 year statement in late 2013. This bottle predates all of those changes.
Tasting Profile
- Nose: Caramel and vanilla with rye spice, toasted oak and a little dried orange.
- Palate: Medium-bodied and spicy, with brown sugar, sweet corn and firm oak.
- Finish: Medium length, drying gently with pepper, vanilla and oak.
Serving & Food
An old bottle deserves a quiet first taste: neat, at room temperature, in a tulip glass. Check the fill level and cork before opening, as corks from the early 2000s can dry out. Pecan pie, smoked brisket or a crumbly aged cheddar sit well beside it.
How to Enjoy
Anyone tracking the 1792 label's history, or keen to set an early Barton bottling next to today's Small Batch.
Product Details
Producer: Barton 1792 Distillery (Sazerac Company since 2009)
Expression: Ridgewood Reserve 1792, original 2002 to 2004 label (later renamed 1792 Ridgemont Reserve)
Style: Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey
Age: 8 years (as labelled on the original release)
Proof: 93.7 (46.85% ABV)
Region: Bardstown, Kentucky, USA
Volume: 750mL
Edition: discontinued first-generation label
Origin: USA
About the Distillery
Barton 1792 Distillery was founded in 1879 and is the oldest distillery still fully operating in Bardstown, Kentucky. The site covers 196 acres, with 29 barrel warehouses and the Tom Moore Spring, whose limestone water is still used in production. The distillery and the 1792 brand have belonged to the Sazerac Company since 2009, and the name marks the year Kentucky joined the Union.
To install this Web App in your iPhone/iPad press
and then Add to Home Screen.
