Old Fitzgerald bourbon is a brand as stories as it’s flavor. But how much is it worth? What do you have to pay at MSRP vs. retail to buy a bottle of Old Fitzgerald bourbon. Everything you need to know about more about Old Fitzgerald’s value, cost, and retail price.
What is Old Fitzgerald Bourbon Whiskey Worth?
According to bourbon collecting app Booz.app, Old Fitzgerald is worth:
- Old Fitzgerald 2023 Spring Release – Age: 10 Years, MSRP: $89.14 , Retail: $241.47
- Old Fizgerald 2022 Fall Release Release – Age: 19 Years, MSRP: $240.00 , Retail: $728.94
- Old Fizgerald 2022 Spring Release – Age: 17 Years, MSRP: $109.99 , Retail: $441.69
- Old Fizgerald 2021 Fall Release – Age: 11 Years, MSRP: $120.64, Retail: $345.08
- Old Fizgerald 2021 Spring Release – Age: 8 Years, MSRP: $84.99 , Retail: $176.02
- Old Fizgerald 2020 Fall Release – Age: 14 Years, MSRP: $132.48 , Retail: $351.45
- Old Fizgerald 2020 Spring Release – Age: 9 Years, MSRP: $89.14, Retail: $349.87
- Old Fizgerald 2020 VVS Release – Age: 16 Years, MSRP: $155.69 , Retail: $373.49
This price range is influenced by factors such as availability, demand, and the retailer’s pricing strategy.
Old Fitzgerald History and Background
Old Fitzgerald, a brand of wheated bourbon, was first produced in 1870 by John E. Fitzgerald in Frankfort, Kentucky. Initially, it was exclusively for rail and steamship lines and private clubs primarily in the south. Around 1900, “Old Fitz” was released to the public in America and Europe. It was one of the few bourbons distilled using the pot still method until around 1913.
During Prohibition, Old Fitzgerald was one of a select few to distill under government supervision for the national medicinal trade. It was soon after acquired by Pappy Van Winkle, who introduced the “Whisper of Wheat” to the original recipe. By substituting some wheat for the more traditional rye in the grain recipe, Old Fitzgerald presented a rounder, softer profile than other bourbons.
Old Fitzgerald was produced at the Stitzel-Weller Distillery until the distillery was shut down in 19921. The production was then transferred to Diageo’s newly constructed Bernheim Distillery in Louisville. In 1999, Diageo sold the brand, along with the Bernheim Distillery, to Heaven Hill, which currently produces and markets Old Fitzgerald1.
Old Fitzgerald Taste
Old Fitzgerald is known for its vibrant and sweet taste. The nose has sweet honey and vanilla. The palate has just enough oak, but does not go overboard. Other flavors include creme brulee, milk and dark chocolate, molasses, brown sugar, ripe plum, peach, and just a hint of spice on the finish. The taste is rich with caramel, and fairly sweet with brown sugar and light honey.
Is Old Fitzgerald Worth the Price?
Given its rich history, unique taste, and the craftsmanship that goes into each bottle, many bourbon enthusiasts would argue that Old Fitzgerald offers good value for its price. However, like any spirit, whether it’s worth the price or not ultimately depends on personal preference. If you enjoy a bourbon with a rounder, softer profile and a complex array of flavors, then Old Fitzgerald might be worth the investment for you.
If you’re a beginner, you probably won’t appreciate the complexity of flavor in Old Fitz…especially for the price tag it commands. Sell your bottle and pick up a bottle (or 2!) of E.H. Taylor Small Batch instead.
Leave a Reply