Fathertime Bourbon is the result of comedian Jim Gaffigan's bourbon habit-turned-obsession (he's even done a full stand-up special on the subject). It is a limited seasonal release each spring and fall of Kentucky Bourbon handpicked by Gaffigan that puts the standard Celebrity spirit to shame both in his level of involvement and the resulting quality of the product. Each batch is released in standard proof (46.2% abv) as well as what he calls "Empty Nester Strength" (60.5% abv), for those who crave a little extra kick in the pants.
We are thrilled to be able to offer the latest limited batch, "The Caboose", and to host Jim Gaffigan for a tasting at our San Francisco Store on June 14 from 12:30-2:30 PM. He'll be hanging out, talking whiskey, and pouring samples of both expressions of "The Caboose" batch.
Our tastings can get crowded even on a normal day, so although this will be open to the public for free just like any Bitters & Bottles tasting event, entry may be staged depending on turnout. Bottle quantities are also limited - purchase for store pickup in advance to guarantee your bottle and for quick entry to tasting.
"Some bottles of The Caboose are released at cask strength (121.0 proof), affectionately called “Empty Nester Strength.” When children finally leave the home, parents enter a unique stage in their journey. While empty nesters are often characterized as being victoriously liberated from parental responsibilities, they sometimes also experience a level of grief. The grip of love and fear that permeates parenting grows a little tighter. And some nights that calls for a stronger bourbon."
Unfiltered and un-proofed straight from the barrel, this version carries a bit more maturity (utilizing barrels in the 8+ year range). The extra age and higher proof bring a much more robust, oak-forward structure with a serious punch of spice. Nose is bold and deeply concentrated. Rich honey and deeply caramelized brown sugar hit first, balanced by seasoned oak, pie crust, and prominent baking spices. The heat is present but well-integrated into the sweet aromatics. Palate is full-bodied, fiery, and complex. Intense layers of bright caramel and dark brown sugar clash beautifully with a heavy dose of rye spice. Undertones of leather, roasted pecans, and seasoned char give it a distinctly older, dustier wood character than its lower-proof sibling.