Leisure

Old School

Really, Really Old Booze

Age just seems to improve certain things. For example: Robin Wright. Or: the stuff in these bottles. Below, a rundown of some of the oldest spirits in town of varying types. But not vodka. Because that would be pointless.

THE OLDEST WHISKEY AT JACK ROSE

1917 Monticello Whiskey

What it is: An American whiskey distilled in 1917 and bottled in 1932, from the owner’s personal collection.
When you’ll drink it: On Saturday night. Because that’s the only time it’s available, at Dram & Grain, Jack Rose’s new semisecret basement speakeasy.
Made before: Prohibition.

THE OLDEST BORDEAUX AT PROOF

1959 Chateau Haut-Brion

What it is: One of the famous “first growths” of Bordeaux. No, that doesn’t mean the grapes sprout earlier.
When you’ll drink it: Celebrating a French gold medal. Oh, wait...
Made before: The Kennedy administration.

THE OLDEST WHISKEY AT RÍ RÁ

1951 Knappogue Castle Irish Whiskey

What it is: One of the oldest Irish single malts in the world, bottled by an American who bought barrels of the stuff. After he bought an Irish castle, naturally.
When you’ll drink it: St. Patrick’s Day is a nice start.
Made before: Rock and roll.

THE OLDEST MADEIRA AT PLUME

1720 H.M. Borges Madeira “Pather”

What it is: A fortified Portuguese wine of the kind that Thomas Jefferson liked so much, he toasted the Declaration of Independence with it. Fortunately, it doesn’t go bad.
When you’ll drink it: The next time you form a new nation.
Made before: Thomas Jefferson himself.

THE OLDEST SCOTCH AT THE COLUMBIA ROOM

1960s Gordon & MacPhail Macallan

What it is: A 47-year-old independent bottling from one of Scotland’s most famous distilleries.
When you’ll drink it: While wearing a tie-dyed kilt.
Made before: Woodstock.