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Everything you need to know about Early Times Distillery
A brief History
Early Times, Kentucky Region, USA. Founded in 1860.
Early Times is one of those names that’s been around so long it almost blends into the background. You’ve probably seen it on shelves, maybe even had a bottle at some point—but it rarely tries to grab attention. And that’s kind of the point.
The brand dates back to 1860, founded by Jack Beam, part of the wider Beam family line. That connection matters. It places Early Times right in the middle of Kentucky bourbon history, even if it doesn’t shout about it.
Over the years, the brand has shifted roles. At times it’s been a straight bourbon, at others a blended or “Kentucky whisky” style, depending on regulations and production choices. That flexibility has kept it going through changing markets, even if it means the identity isn’t always fixed.
I tend to think of Early Times as a working whisky. It’s not built for collecting or showing off. It’s built to be poured, mixed, and enjoyed without overthinking it.
Taste Profile
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 |
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Sweet |
Malty / Cereal | Oaky / Woody |
Early Times is known for its smooth, approachable flavour. You’ll usually get light caramel and vanilla up front, followed by a gentle cereal note. The oak is present but not dominant, giving a slightly dry finish without becoming heavy.
It’s not complex, and it doesn’t try to be. The strength here is consistency and ease.
Top 4 Flavour Profile Ingredients
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Caramel / Toffee |
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Vanilla |
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Oak / Wood Spice |
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Malt / Biscuit / Toast |
Popular Early Times Bottles
Here are the most commonly found releases:
- Early Times Kentucky Whisky (Original)
The standard release. Light, smooth, and widely used for mixing. - Early Times Bottled in Bond
A step up in quality—higher proof, more structure, and better balance. - Early Times Bourbon (Historic Style Releases)
Occasional releases reflecting older bourbon-style production.
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The Distillery
The Distiller: Early Times Distillery
Address: Kentucky, USA
 Open in maps |
 Unavailable |
 Unavailable |
Visitor Centre
Early Times doesn’t operate as a standalone visitor distillery in the same way as some other bourbon brands.
- Visitor Centre: No dedicated public site
- Tours: Not typically available
Ownership & History
Current Owner:
- Sazerac Company (acquired in 2020)
Previous Ownership:
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- Founded by Jack Beam (1860)
- Later became part of Brown-Forman
- Sold to Sazerac Company in 2020
Distillery Facts
Overview & History
Early Times is a long-standing American whiskey brand introduced in 1860 in Kentucky. It became widely known as an affordable, accessible whiskey and grew significantly during the 20th century.
The brand was owned for many years by Brown-Forman, who positioned it as a high-volume product, particularly for export markets such as Japan.
In 2020, the brand was sold to the Sazerac Company, marking a new phase in its development.
Production
- Category: Kentucky whiskey (not always labelled as straight bourbon)
- Distillation: Column still followed by a doubler
- Barrels: Historically a mix of new and used oak (for standard releases)
- Special Releases: Bottled-in-Bond expressions matured in new charred oak
Because some versions are aged in used barrels, they may not meet the legal definition of straight bourbon.
Whisky Style
Early Times typically shows:
- Light to medium body
- Sweet corn and caramel
- Vanilla
- Mild oak
- Smooth, straightforward finish
The style is designed to be easy-drinking and accessible.
Key Expressions
- Early Times Kentucky Whisky – Core standard release
- Early Times Bottled-in-Bond – Higher quality, 100 proof expression
The Bottled-in-Bond version is often more highly regarded for its structure and depth.
Significance
Early Times is an example of a legacy American whiskey brand that built its reputation on accessibility and consistency.
Its transition from Brown-Forman to Sazerac reflects broader consolidation trends within the spirits industry, while the Bottled-in-Bond release has helped reintroduce the brand to enthusiasts seeking traditional bourbon standards.
Early Times Whisky to Buy
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