A bottle of Green River Whiskey from the early 1900’s, I am unveiling a true gem from American distilling history! This pre-Prohibition era treasure, hailing from the famed Green River Distillery in Owensboro, Kentucky, was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to savor a dram that time forgot. Remarkably well-preserved, this bottle stands as a testament to the craftsmanship of a bygone era, its contents untouched for over a century. The deep amber liquid carries the authentic flavors and spirit of early 20th-century bourbon-making, unaltered by modern techniques or regulations. For whiskey enthusiasts and history buffs alike, tasting this Green River relic is akin to sipping liquid history. I got to experience firsthand the acclaimed smoothness that earned this brand the moniker “The Whiskey Without a Headache.”

RARE – Auction only – Not available for sale

Tasting Notes 1900’s Green River Whiskey:

Appearance

Color: Rich mahogany with glints of amber, reminiscent of well-aged leather-bound books.

Legs: Slow, viscous tears cling to the glass, forming thick legs that suggest a full-bodied experience.

Nose

Aromas: Initial notes of caramelized sugar and vanilla bean give way to secondary aromas of dried apricots and cherries. Tertiary notes of old leather, tobacco leaf, and a hint of musty oak emerge with time.

Complexity: The bouquet is intricate and layered, offering a fascinating journey through time with each inhale.

Palate

First Sip: Velvety and full, coating the mouth with an initial burst of toffee and dark honey.

Development: The sweetness evolves into a medley of baking spices – cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of clove. Undertones of dried fruit and nuts emerge as it develops.

Complexity: Remarkably balanced, the whiskey presents a harmonious interplay between sweet, spicy, and woody notes, with no single element overpowering the others.

Finish

Length: Impressively long, lingering for minutes after the last sip.

Flavors: The finish brings forth warm oak, a subtle peppery spice, and a gentle tannic grip, concluding with a pleasant dryness and hints of dark chocolate.

Overall Impression

This early 1900s Green River whiskey is a captivating time capsule of pre-Prohibition craftsmanship. It offers a complex, well-preserved flavor profile that both satisfies and intrigues, providing insight into historical distilling practices.

Thoughts on the experience 

The opportunity to sample this vintage Green River Whiskey has been truly extraordinary. Tasting a spirit bottled over a century ago is an incredibly rare privilege, offering a unique glimpse into the world of pre-Prohibition American whiskey. The remarkable preservation of this bottle’s contents is a testament to the quality of early 20th-century distilling techniques and storage methods.

This experience serves as a tangible connection to the rich history of American whiskey-making, allowing us to appreciate the craftsmanship of distillers who laid the foundation for today’s bourbon industry. It’s a reminder of how far the industry has come, while also highlighting the timeless qualities of well-made spirits.

Browse Modern Day Whiskey by Green River

Have you ever had the chance to taste an antique, pre-prohibition whiskey? We’d be fascinated to hear about your experience. Perhaps you’ve discovered an old family bottle tucked away in an attic or attended a special tasting featuring historic spirits. Share your story in the comments below.