Celebrate Bourbon Heritage Month with Vintage Whiskeys

American whiskey has long been an integral part of our nation's history, playing a crucial role in its economic, cultural, and social fabric. Its origins trace back more than 400 years, when English colonists began distilling corn whiskey in what is now Virginia. However, it wasn’t until 1964 that Bourbon was formally recognized as a distinctive product of the United States. In that landmark year, Congress passed legislation that established specific federal regulations for a spirit to bear the name "Bourbon." Chief among these regulations is the requirement that Bourbon must be made in the United States—a standard that protects the authenticity and legacy of this iconic spirit.

Fast forward to 2007, when the U.S. Senate passed a resolution designating September as National Bourbon Heritage Month. This month-long celebration honors the rich history, craftsmanship, and enduring legacy of Bourbon, America's native spirit. Every September, enthusiasts and collectors gather for festivals, exclusive events, and the release of coveted limited-edition bottlings. This period also marks the beginning of the highly anticipated "fall release season," when rare and high-end Bourbons hit the market, sparking a frenzy among collectors and whiskey hunters eager to secure these exceptional bottles.

The Importance of Vintage Whiskey

At The Bourbon Concierge, we believe that while the modern whiskey hunt has its thrills, the heritage and historical significance of American whiskey are sometimes overlooked. That’s why we place a special focus on vintage whiskey—a category of Bourbon that offers a taste of history with every pour. You might have heard enthusiasts refer to these gems as "dusties" or simply as bottles that are no longer in production. While the industry hasn't officially defined the term, we use it to describe a broad spectrum of treasures, including whiskey bottled decades ago, spirits from shuttered distilleries, or even Bourbons whose recipes have changed over time. These bottles offer flavor profiles that are often unmatched by today’s releases, providing a glimpse into the past that can’t be replicated.

One of our absolute favorites in the vintage category is the legendary Old Crow Chessmen. Known for their exquisite decanter design, these bottles hold more than just an impressive display piece—the whiskey inside is revered for its depth, smoothness, and distinctive flavor. Best-selling author and Bourbon expert Fred Minnick has even hailed Old Crow Chessmen as one of the best Bourbons he’s ever tasted, a testament to the unique qualities that set vintage whiskey apart.

Celebrate with The Bourbon Concierge

To mark Bourbon Heritage Month, we’re offering free shipping on orders of $299* or more—which includes all our vintage whiskies like the highly sought-after Old Crow Chessmen decanters. As we continue to add more vintage selections throughout September, we encourage you to explore these rare bottles and savor a piece of history. But don’t wait—these bottles are as limited as they come, and once they’re gone, they’re gone for good!