James E Pepper 1776 Straight Bourbon

Product Description

James E. Pepper 1776: Revolutionary-Era Roots, Rebuilt

James E. Pepper 1776 Straight Bourbon carries a brand history stretching back to 1780, when the Pepper family began producing "Old Pepper" whiskey in Lexington, Kentucky, marketed as "The Oldest and Best Brand of Whisky Made in Kentucky." Colonel James E. Pepper, a flamboyant bourbon industrialist and Master Distiller, proudly used his grandfather's original Revolutionary-era recipe and affectionately nicknamed his whiskey "Old 1776." The brand and its historic distillery fell into disrepair after the bourbon industry's hard times in the late 1960s, but following a multi-year restoration effort, the James E. Pepper Distillery in Lexington resumed distilling in December 2017, using the same historic recipe as before its closure.

How James E. Pepper 1776 Is Made

This bourbon is distilled from a high-rye mash bill of 60% corn, 36% rye, and 4% malted barley, aged 3 to 4 years in new charred American oak. It's cut to proof and hand-bottled at the historic James E. Pepper Distillery using water from the site's own historic limestone well. It's unfiltered and bottled at 100 proof, and has earned multiple Gold and Double Gold medals at the San Francisco and New York World Spirits Competitions.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Rich caramel, vanilla, honey, cloves, and dark chocolate, with light rye spice.

Palate: Warm baking spice, caramel, oak, citrus zest, and rich toffee.

Finish: Smooth and spicy, with lingering rye warmth and subtle oak.

Food Pairings

The caramel and toffee character in James E. Pepper 1776 pairs well with a pecan pie, grilled pork, or aged cheddar. Its baking spice notes also complement a spiced apple crisp.

Serving Suggestions

James E. Pepper 1776 is built to be enjoyed neat, over ice, or in a proper Old Fashioned, where its high-rye spice holds up well against bitters and citrus.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the mash bill? 60% corn, 36% rye, and 4% malted barley.

How long is this bourbon aged? 3 to 4 years in new charred American oak.

What proof is this bourbon? 100 proof (50% ABV).

Where is this bourbon made? Distilled at MGP in Indiana or Bardstown Bourbon Co., then cut to proof and hand-bottled at the historic James E. Pepper Distillery in Lexington, Kentucky.

Explore More

Looking for more historic and high-rye bourbon? Browse our full Bourbon collection for more options with genuine American whiskey heritage.

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