The Party Source in Bellevue, KY has just bottled the first-ever (so I am told) Ancient Ancient Age 10 year old single barrel bourbon. I just couldn’t resist comparing it to the standard issue AAA 10 yr.

I did a very informal review the other night, sipping each side-by-side while watching the Phillies game. There’s an obvious distinction between the two (which is what makes single barrel bottlings so interesting).

The Party Source single barrel is lighter in color, more nimble on the palate and subtly complex. It’s also softer, more elegant and creamy in texture.

The standard bottling, which is not from a single barrel, is darker in color, “heavier”, with darker sugars, more grit and more oak influence.

Both, by the way, are very nice.