I.W. Harper Bourbon is a timeless expression of craftsmanship and tradition, blending over a century of heritage with contemporary sophistication. Crafted with a mash bill featuring 86% corn, this Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey delivers a smooth and balanced flavor profile that opens with a sweetness of caramel and vanilla before transitioning to notes of dried fruit, oak, and a subtle spiciness. Aged to perfection in charred oak barrels, it offers a velvety mouthfeel and a warm, lingering finish. With its iconic diamond-etched bottle design and rich history dating back to the 19th century, I.W. Harper stands as a symbol of quality and refinement, perfect for sipping neat, on the rocks, or elevating a classic bourbon cocktail.
Process & Profile
I.W. Harper Bourbon boasts a long-standing history dating back to 1872, born from the vision of German immigrant Isaac Wolfe Bernheim. Using a mash bill heavily composed of corn—about 86%—with small additions of rye (6%) and malted barley (8%), the bourbon is distilled and aged with meticulous attention to detail. Aged in charred American oak barrels, the 15-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon matures patiently, developing a deep complexity across its 86-proof expression. Known for its elegance, the brand balances heritage with modern precision, ensuring consistency while honoring its roots.
Tasting Notes
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Aroma: The bourbon opens with a lush bouquet of fruit, featuring notes of cherries, dried raisins, fresh pear, and touches of vanilla.
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Palate: Sweetness dominates upfront with flavors of caramel, honey, and grain. Mid-palate reveals layers of oak, leather, and subtle spices, with hints of licorice, cinnamon, and vanilla wafers.
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Finish: Smooth and warming, the finish lingers with soft oak, crème brûlée, and a whisper of tobacco and spice.
This bourbon offers a rich and nuanced sipping experience, underscored by its well-aged profile and a gentle proof that allows its layers of flavor to shine.
What Makes It Special
I.W. Harper Bourbon is celebrated not just for its taste but also for its heritage and presentation:
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Historic Legacy: Dating back to the 19th century, the brand is a testament to bourbon's enduring tradition, once beloved internationally and recently revived in the U.S.
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Award-Winning Expression: The 15-Year-Old variation has earned critical acclaim, including a Double Gold medal at the 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
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Iconic Packaging: The beveled glass bottle evokes a vintage charm that looks as refined as the bourbon tastes, making it a standout addition to any collection.
How to Enjoy
Enjoying I.W. Harper Bourbon is all about appreciating its complexity and versatility. Some popular ways to savor this timeless bourbon include:
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Neat or On the Rocks: Best suited for the 15-Year-Old expression, which shines when sipped leisurely to appreciate its full flavor profile.
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Classic Cocktails: Its mellow, sweet character makes it an excellent base for cocktails like a Manhattan or Old Fashioned.
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Paired with Conversation: The smoothness and warmth make it perfect for sharing during relaxed moments with friends or family.
With its rich history, refined flavors, and award-winning reputation, I.W. Harper Bourbon represents the pinnacle of sophistication in the bourbon world. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or new to the category, this bourbon promises an experience as remarkable as its legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history behind I.W. Harper Bourbon?
I.W. Harper Bourbon was founded in 1872 by Isaac Wolfe Bernheim, a German immigrant who came to America in 1848 with just $4. The brand quickly gained recognition for its quality and was one of the few distilleries allowed to operate during Prohibition, producing spirits for medicinal purposes. After decades of global success, including a major presence in Japan, I.W. Harper made its return to the U.S. market in 2015.
What does I.W. Harper Bourbon taste like?
I.W. Harper Bourbon is known for its smooth, balanced character with a rich flavor profile. Typical tasting notes include hints of caramel, vanilla, oak, dried fruits, and a light touch of spice. These flavors contribute to its reputation as a versatile bourbon, whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails.
What is the mash bill of I.W. Harper Bourbon?
The mash bill for I.W. Harper's Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey comprises 86% corn, 8% malted barley, and 6% rye. This high-corn composition gives the bourbon a sweeter, smoother taste, balanced by light spice from the rye.
Where is I.W. Harper Bourbon made?
I.W. Harper Bourbon is distilled at the New Bernheim Distillery and then matured at the historic Stitzel-Weller distillery. The final bottling occurs in Tullahoma, Tennessee. The brand is owned by Diageo, a global leader in spirits production.
What products are available under the I.W. Harper brand?
I.W. Harper offers several expressions, including their standard Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, the 15-Year-Old Bourbon, and a unique Cabernet Cask Finish. Each product features its own distinct flavor characteristics while maintaining the smoothness and quality the brand is known for.
How should I.W. Harper Bourbon be served?
I.W. Harper Bourbon is versatile and can be enjoyed in multiple ways. It's excellent served neat or on the rocks to savor its complexity. It's also a great choice for classic bourbon-based cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan. The sweeter notes of the bourbon pair well with desserts or after-dinner sipping.
Has I.W. Harper received any awards?
Yes, I.W. Harper has earned numerous awards over the years, including accolades at international spirit competitions. These awards highlight its craftsmanship, smoothness, and quality.
What makes I.W. Harper Bourbon unique?
I.W. Harper stands out for its rich history, smooth flavor profile, and commitment to quality. The high corn content in the mash bill gives the bourbon a subtle sweetness, while the aging process in charred oak barrels imparts complexity. The brand also heavily emphasizes design, with their iconic vintage-inspired bottles being as appealing as the bourbon inside.
Where can I.W. Harper Bourbon be purchased?
I.W. Harper Bourbon is widely available in liquor stores across the United States and select international markets. You can also purchase it online from various retailers, depending on local shipping laws.
What is the proof of I.W. Harper Bourbon?
The standard I.W. Harper Bourbon has an 82-proof (41% alcohol by volume), while the 15-Year Bourbon is 86-proof (43% ABV). The brand's Cabernet Cask Finish Bourbon is 90-proof (45% ABV).