The Gold Standard of Aged Bourbon: Old Fitzgerald Bottled In Bond 13 Year Old

If you’re searching for a bourbon that exemplifies age, authenticity, and exceptional craftsmanship, look no further than the Old Fitzgerald Bottled-In-Bond 13 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. A shining example of Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey, this release from the iconic Old Fitzgerald line is not just a drink—it’s a piece of American distilling history.
Known for its rich heritage, deep complexity, and limited availability, the 13 Year Old Old Fitzgerald bourbon whiskey is a must-have for collectors, enthusiasts, and anyone seeking to explore one of the most refined expressions of straight bourbon on the market today.
Let’s take a deep dive into what makes this bottle a standout in the world of bourbon whiskey, why it’s a top pick among rare bourbon offerings, and how to buy bourbon online from a trusted source like Rare Finds Liquor Store.
A Legacy Cast in Glass: The Story of Old Fitzgerald

To understand the significance of any Old Fitzgerald Bourbon, one must appreciate its profound heritage. The brand’s history is intrinsically linked to the legendary Stitzel-Weller Distillery, founded by the iconic Julian “Pappy” Van Winkle and his partners. Old Fitzgerald was the flagship brand, renowned for its “wheated” recipe, which uses wheat instead of rye as the secondary grain, resulting in a naturally softer, smoother character.
This historical connection to some of the most coveted American Kentucky whiskey ever produced gives Old Fitzgerald an aura that few other brands can claim. Today, Heaven Hill Distillery stewards this legacy with reverence, maintaining the original mash bill and the commitment to quality that made it famous. When you purchase an Old Fitzgerald whiskey, you are acquiring a direct link to the golden age of bourbon.
The Meaning of “Bottled-In-Bond”: A Promise of Purity

The Old Fitzgerald Bottled in Bond designation is far more than a label; it is a federally regulated guarantee of authenticity, established by the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897. This was America’s first consumer protection law for spirits, and it sets forth uncompromising standards:
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The product of one distillation season at one distillery.
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Aged for a minimum of four years under federal supervision.
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Bottled at exactly 100 proof (50% ABV).
For the Old Fitzgerald 13 Year Old, this guarantee is just the beginning. The 13-year age statement dramatically exceeds the legal requirement, signaling a spirit of extraordinary maturity and complexity. In an era where age statements are vanishing, this bottle is a bold affirmation of quality over quantity, appealing to those who seek the best barrell bourbon batch from a proven lineage.
Old Fitzgerald 13 Year Bourbon Review Tasting Notes: The Elegance of a Well-Aged Wheated Bourbon

The Old Fitzgerald 13 Year Old offers a masterclass in the wheated bourbon profile. The extended aging in oak has softened the spirit while building incredible depth, and the 100-proof bottling provides the perfect structure to carry its complex flavors without overwhelming the palate.
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On the Nose: The aroma is profoundly elegant and inviting. Initial waves of rich toffee, honey, and vanilla bean are immediate. These are followed by the deep, comforting scent of seasoned oak and leather, alongside notes of baked apple, brown sugar, and a delicate floral hint. The absence of aggressive alcohol burn at 100 proof is a testament to its impeccable balance.
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On the Palate: The first sip reveals a luxuriously smooth and velvety mouthfeel. The wheat recipe shines, offering a gentle sweetness that allows flavors of caramel, marzipan, and toasted coconut to unfold gracefully. The 13 years of aging impart profound notes of dark chocolate, oak, and a medley of baking spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. It lacks the sharp spice of a rye bourbon, instead presenting a harmonious and layered experience that is the hallmark of a world-class straight Kentucky bourbon whiskey.
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The Finish: The finish is long, warm, and remarkably clean. It lingers with a gentle, oaky sweetness, fading notes of dried fruit, and a final, satisfying hint of vanilla and spice. It’s a dignified finish that encourages contemplation and instantly justifies its status as a top-tier pour.
Why the 13-Year Old Fitzgerald Bourbon is So Coveted

1. Aged to Perfection
Most bourbons are aged between 4 to 8 years. The Old Fitzgerald Bottled-In-Bond 13 Year Old takes things a step further, resulting in a deeply complex and smooth character rarely found in modern releases.
2. Limited and Rare
Each Old Fitzgerald release is limited edition, making it a highly sought-after item for collectors. As a rare bourbon, its availability is extremely limited, especially as each year brings a new age statement or batch size.
3. Bottled-in-Bond Integrity
In an age of marketing hype, the Bottled-in-Bond label remains a promise of quality. You’re getting a bottle with verified age, origin, and strength—no additives, no shortcuts.
4. Heritage Packaging
The decanter-style bottle and vintage-inspired labeling bring classic charm and authenticity, making it a showpiece on any bourbon shelf.
Old Fitzgerald in the World of Premium Bourbons
For those curious about the nuances of bourbon vs whiskey, Old Fitzgerald serves as a pristine example. It meets all the criteria for a Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey while offering a distinct experience from other premium bourbon whiskey brands.
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Wheated vs. Rye: Unlike a high-rye or traditional small batch bourbon, the wheat in Old Fitzgerald provides a softer, more mellow profile, emphasizing sweet, creamy, and oaky flavors over peppery spice.
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Age Statement Significance: While many single barrel bourbon offerings are celebrated, the Old Fitzgerald 13 Year is a carefully blended small batch bourbon that showcases the consistency and complexity achievable with well-aged stocks.
Why the Old Fitzgerald 13 Year is an Ultimate Collector’s Item
The Old Fitzgerald Bottled-In-Bond series is a perennial favorite for several compelling reasons:
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Historical Prestige: Its connection to the Stitzel-Weller legacy gives it an unmatched heritage.
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Limited Seasonal Releases: Each edition is a numbered, biannual release, making every bottle a finite and highly sought-after commodity.
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Exceptional Age: A 13-year age statement on a premium, wheated bourbon is exceptionally rare in today’s market.
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Decanter Presentation: Housed in its signature glass decanter with a steeple-topped cork, it is instantly recognizable and adds a touch of classic elegance to any collection.
Finding Old Fitzgerald Bourbon for sale is a challenge that signifies a successful hunt, making it a prized centerpiece for any serious collection.
Old Fitzgerald vs Other Bourbon Whiskey Brands
In the growing world of bourbon whiskey brands, Old Fitzgerald holds a unique position. While single barrel bourbon and small batch bourbon are popular categories, the 13-Year Bottled-In-Bond combines the best of both worlds: high-quality blending from select barrels with the strict regulations of the Bottled-in-Bond process.
Unlike bourbons from newer craft distilleries, Old Fitzgerald draws from Heaven Hill’s vast reserves of aged whiskey, allowing for precision in barrel selection and blending. It competes easily with elite expressions from other brands like Pappy Van Winkle, George T. Stagg, and Eagle Rare.
Bourbon vs Whiskey: What’s the Difference?
Wondering about bourbon vs whiskey? Here’s a quick explanation:
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Whiskey is a broad category that includes Scotch, Irish, Canadian, and American whiskeys.
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Bourbon is a type of American whiskey made primarily from corn (at least 51%) and aged in new, charred oak barrels.
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To be a Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey, it must be made in Kentucky and aged for at least 2 years.
The Old Fitzgerald bourbon whiskey not only qualifies but exceeds the standard, with its 13-year aging, Kentucky origin, and Bottled-in-Bond certification.
How to Acquire This Piece of American History
The quest to find this bourbon for sale near me is notoriously difficult. Its status as an allocated, limited-release spirit means it is seldom available on open shelves and is subject to intense demand from collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.
We offer a carefully curated selection of:
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Rare bourbon
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Small batch bourbon
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Single barrel bourbon
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Premium Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey
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Limited edition and collectible releases
Skip the generic retail chains and endless searches for “bourbon for sale near me.” Shop with confidence at Rare Finds and get access to exclusive bottles delivered straight to your door.
This is the core mission of Rare Finds Liquor Store. We are your best place to buy bourbon online, with a dedicated network that allows us to source the most elusive allocated bottles, including the revered Old Fitzgerald 13 Year Old Bottled in Bond. Our secure platform ensures that when you decide to buy bourbon whiskey online, you can do so with the confidence that you are receiving an authentic, perfectly stored bottle of liquid history.
The Final Verdict: A Benchmark of Timeless Bourbon

Old Fitzgerald Bottled In Bond 13 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is more than a spirit; it is an experience. It is a smooth, profoundly complex, and beautifully balanced straight bourbon whiskey that pays homage to its rich history while delivering a timeless tasting profile. It is the perfect acquisition for the collector who values provenance, for the enthusiast seeking the pinnacle of wheated bourbon, and for anyone who wishes to taste a true American legend.
It is, without reservation, one of the most dignified and rewarding pours in the world of American whiskey Kentucky.
Own a Legend of American Whiskey.
Elevate your collection with a benchmark of heritage and taste. Explore our curated selection at Rare Finds Liquor Store, where we connect you with the icons of the spirits world.
Visit our website to browse our selection of bourbon for sale online and inquire about securing your bottle of the legendary Old Fitzgerald Bottled In Bond 13 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Contact us for current availability on this and other unparalleled expressions.





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