Why 1984 Is A Bourbon Collector's Favorite Year

While some liquor can be hard to drink without copious mixers, bourbon is lauded for its smooth and enticing flavor profile. For instance, a review of Buffalo Trace Bourbon by Liquor.com describes complex flavor combinations featuring cinnamon, butterscotch, and even black pepper. Much of the appeal lies in the meticulous process it takes to craft bourbon. And while often misunderstood, the bourbon-making process is governed by certain guidelines.

CNBC quoted Rob Samuels, Chief Operating Officer at Maker's Mark, as saying there are five factors that make bourbon unique. The only extra ingredient allowed is water. Bourbon must be at least 80 proof when bottled, but it can't be higher than 125 proof when placed into the barrel. Additionally, at least 51% of the mash must be comprised of corn. 

While bourbon can be made outside of Kentucky, it must be a product of the United States. And when it comes to aging, only a brand-new charred oak barrel will do. These factors ensure the finished product is highly drinkable and pleasing on the palate, at least, according to Samuels. However, the age of a bottle can make it more enticing, especially when it comes to collectors.

As with wine, many people enjoy collecting bourbon and other whiskeys. In this case, collectors are most enthusiastic about bottles that are considered rare or hard to come by under normal circumstances. Vintage bottles fall into that category, with some being fervently sought-after by buyers. 

As explained by Difford's Guide, the definition of a vintage spirit is rather vague and open to interpretation. Some believe that a bottle must be at least three decades old before receiving the vintage designation. For example, bourbon and other brown liquors from the '80s are considered highly valuable among collectors.

Rarity and cost aren't the only roadblocks when searching for vintage bourbon. VinePair writes that many states have laws against non-licensed sellers accepting payment for vintage bottles in their collections. The one notable exception is Kentucky, which enacted a law in 2018 that allows restaurants, distilleries, and other licensed purveyors of alcohol to purchase vintage bottles from people who lack the necessary licensing. Residents of the state will now find it easier to procure those elusive vintage bourbons and whiskeys of the '80s, including offerings from the magical year of 1984.

While the year 1984 is associated with a lot of things, to bourbon lovers, it marks an auspicious occasion. This was the year that Blanton's Single Barrel Bourbon was born, which was the first to produce a "super premium" bourbon. Distiller Elmer T. Lee used legendary Albert B. Blanton as inspiration, as Blanton would carefully hand-select a single barrel and use it alone to age his bourbon. 

1984 is also the birth year of one of the most sought-after vintage bottles currently available. According to The Bourbon Review, LeNell's Red Hook Rye is high on the list of collectible whiskeys, with a possible price tag of $30,000 — or more. Taken from four barrels sourced by the Willett Family Estate, only 852 bottles were created. While the distilled age is quite captivating, the scarcity of these bottles makes them even more of a hotly desired commodity among collectors.

If you're looking for something less pricey, relatively speaking, there are other amazing whiskey options from that same year. The Whisky Exchange lists a bottle of Karuizawa at just $15,266.24, which is a steal when compared to Red Hook Rye. Distilled in 1984 and bottled in 2013, the whiskey is said to have notes of coffee and ginger, with an earthy finish. For something more attainable, Wine-Searcher features a bottle of Macallan distilled in 1984 and matured in sherry oak barrels. You can enjoy this rare treat for $4,070.