When You Turn 80 The Proof Isn’t Always in the Pudding

Our Ancient Age bourbon sulking in the back of the cabinet.

In the previous Andy’s Corner I mentioned that I was introduced to Swedish pancakes by Ann’s mother after we had flown to Colorado to announce our engagement.  I failed to mention that there was another first for me on that trip.  On the evening we arrived Ann’s father broke out a bottle of Ancient Age bourbon, poured us all a glass with a splash of water, and proposed a toast to his daughter and his future son-in-law. Evidently, Ancient Age bourbon and water had long been an evening ritual in the Hill household, but it was the first time I had even heard of Ancient Age.

Although we have moved on to other brands,  Ann and I keep Ancient Age on hand – out  of nostalgia more than a preference.  Quite frankly, I almost forgot we had a bottle sitting in the back of the cabinet until Ann mentioned that she was thinking about doing a BLM blog on bourbon.  This came at about the same time as I was trying to come up with an appropriate birthday gesture for one of my cycling buddies who was about to turn 80.

Voila!  Why not Ancient Age? –  it’s 80 proof after all.   After doing a little research I realized that this was the perfect gift for a number of reasons, none of which had to do with the quality of the booze of course.

So, as a service to our readers, I am sharing my clever 80th birthday gesture (which could be used on a card, a banner, or a billboard on the road into town).  I offer it as a model for customizing your own version for that someone special who is turning 80.

The tasting notes are excerpted from reviews of Ancient Age published on line.

If you missed your friend’s 80th, not to worry; I have the perfect idea for the 81st birthday – Wild Turkey, which is 81 proof bourbon.  Think of the  creative possibilities with this one.

Cheers!!