Early Times Kentucky Whiskey

Early Times Kentucky Whiskey is an affordable staple with a long heritage, produced in Kentucky from a mash of corn, rye, and malted barley and aged for at least three years in used American oak barrels. While it once qualified as bourbon, it is now labeled as “Kentucky Whiskey” because it is matured in seasoned (not new charred) barrels—a distinction that gives it a lighter character with less pronounced oak than true bourbon. The whiskey pours a pale amber and offers mild aromas of vanilla, corn sweetness, and light oak. On the palate, it is smooth and easy-drinking, revealing flavors of caramel, vanilla, sweet corn, and gentle cereal grain, with a soft, understated finish and minimal burn. Appreciated for its approachable profile and low price, Early Times remains popular for highballs, classic cocktails, or sipping neat when a lighter, mellow whiskey is preferred.