Old Tub Bourbon Re-Released By Jim Beam In Nod To Historic Brand

Old Tub bourbon, as we first touched upon a number of years ago when getting a chance to taste this Jim Beam whiskey in Kentucky, is inspired by the oldest brand from the Beam family that was first made over 140 years ago. It is now being re-released as a limited edition offering by Beam-Suntory.

Old Tub, according to those behind it, is being described by the James B. Beam Distilling Co. as a throwback expression celebrating “bourbon’s true, rustic character.” To this end, among other things, it is distilled without chill filtration just like the original Old Tub recipe, skipping the forcing of the “liquid through a dense filter to remove fatty acids” and resulting in the creation of a “bonded bourbon with a full-bodied authentic flavor.”

Old Tub Bourbon (image via Beam-Suntory)

“We’re taking bourbon lovers back in time and making a delicious bourbon true to the way my ancestors intended over 140 years ago, when Old Tub was first crafted,” said Fred Noe, seventh generation master distiller at Jim Beam, in a prepared statement. “I’m excited to share this one-of-a-kind liquid with our fans and provide a bit of authenticity and nostalgia as we head towards another 225 years in the bourbon industry.”

This bourbon, bottled in bond at 100 proof, “is best enjoyed neat or in classic cocktails like an Old Fashioned or a Brown Derby, which includes bourbon, grapefruit juice and honey syrup.” It will be available for a limited time at select retailers nationwide starting this month for around $23 per 750 ml bottle.

Official tasting notes for Old Tub suggest a bourbon that is “reminiscent of golden citrine gemstones with shades of honey and has initial waves of oak, followed by ribbons of vanilla and grain. Its robust oaky notes are complimented by hints of grain and warm caramel, with a full-bodied clean finish and lingering warmth.”