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Why is Larceny Bourbon So Hard to Find? Need To Know (2024)

Why is Larceny Bourbon Hard to Find

Last Updated on March 5, 2024 by Lydia Martin

Larceny bourbon, associated with the legendary Old Fitzgerald, has been gaining popularity. More and more fanatics are interested, looking out where to find this spirit. 

However, social media forums and groups have been talking about how Larceny is invisible nowadays, and most are asking where to find this spirit. 

But why is Larceny bourbon hard to find? What are the reasons behind it? And what makes Larceny special to get such high demand? Let’s find out all about these queries today.  

5 Reasons Why Larceny Bourbon Is Hard To Find 

man holding bottle of Larceny Kentucky Straight Bourbon

1. It’s Produced In Limited Quantities

Larceny is hard to find because it was produced in small batches and limited quantities. Heaven Hill only used 200 barrels per batch.  

So, there’s only a certain amount of bottles to be bottled and released, which is not enough for the high demand. 

2. It’s Popular

One main reason why Larceny is harder to find is it’s immensely popular, and many drinkers want to get their hands on the bottle, making the demand soar high over time. 

But since it was produced in small batches and limited quantities, plus the waiting time for aging, this makes it insufficient for the people’s demand. 

3. It Depends On The Location 

Larceny Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Bottle

Another reason is the location. There are regions where Larceny is a total staple, so you can be lucky if you get to see a bottle of Larceny displayed on the shelf

Also, if Larceny resorts to allocation, it’s safe to assume that regions that will receive allocated bourbons [1] are those with high sales from the previous year’s sales.

In short, some states or regions will receive less. 

4. It’s Cheap 

The Larceny bourbon, released in small batches thrice per year, costs around $30 to $50 per 750ml, depending on liquor stores. 

With the aging process of 6 to 8 years, it’s quite a cheap bottle of bourbon.    

5. It Has Premium Quality & Unique Taste

Man Drinking Larceny Bourbon Bottle

Larceny is a quality spirit at an affordable price. It’s a great deal of spirit and a real value for money. 

The limited production and release aren’t enough to sustain the increasing demand for Larceny bourbon. This makes the expression harder to find.    

Is Larceny Really Hard To Find? 

Yes. Larceny bourbon is hard to find because it’s a small batch expression produced in limited quantities. 

Although Heaven Hill has been releasing Larceny bourbon thrice per year, the bottles filled aren’t enough to meet the demand, resulting in a shortage. 

Due to the high demand, it is hard to find it for sale. The lucky few who can purchase Larceny bourbon typically pay a high price for it, not the suggested retail price. 

What Makes It Special? 

Pouring Larceny Bourbon Bottle on a Glass

What makes Larceny bourbon special is that each batch or release is unique, consisting of bourbons aged six to eight years. 

The most interesting is the noticeable Pikesville rye’s flowery, nutty, and grassy characters in each of the Larceny bourbons releases. 

“For 85 years the Heaven Hill Distillery team’s commitment to quality and perseverance has set the course for our historic brands to thrive.”

— Conor O’Driscoll, Master Distiller

But, in every release, Larceny bourbon provides a certain “unique” experience, giving opportunities to explore whiskeys. 

Is Larceny Bourbon Allocated? 

Larceny bourbon is allocated to selected states or regions, particularly the Barrel Proof Bourbon. Allocation takes place thrice per year:

  • Every January for batch A
  • Every May for batch B
  • Every September for batch C

The states or regions receiving the allocation may also vary, usually depending on how consistent and strong the sales are.   

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Larceny Bourbon top shelf?

Larceny can be considered a top-shelf bourbon. Many drinkers believe it’s the extension of the legendary Old Fitzgerald expression. 

Is Larceny Barrel Proof rare?

Larceny Barrel Proof is rare because it’s a limited release. Also, at the time of its release in 2019, it only retails at around $50 per 750ml.

Although there have been proceeding releases after the first, since it was produced in limited quantities, the supply is still not enough. 

Why is bourbon so hard to find now?

Bourbon’s scarcity in recent times can be attributed to several factors converging in the whiskey industry. Firstly, the surge in popularity of bourbon, driven by a growing global interest in craft spirits and mixology, has led to increased demand.

This demand has outpaced the production capacity of many distilleries, creating shortages and making certain bourbon expressions elusive.

Additionally, the aging process for bourbon requires time, and distilleries often struggle to keep up with the pace of consumer demand, further exacerbating the scarcity issue.

Is Larceny allocated?

Yes, Larceny Bourbon is often allocated, meaning that its availability is limited, and distribution is controlled by the distillery or its parent company.

Allocation is a common practice employed by distilleries to manage the distribution of their products, especially when demand exceeds the available supply.

This approach allows producers to ensure a fair distribution of their limited-edition or highly sought-after releases to various markets.

What bourbon is similar to Larceny?

For those seeking a bourbon similar to Larceny, several options with comparable flavor profiles can be explored. Brands like Evan Williams, Maker’s Mark, or Elijah Craig may appeal to those who enjoy the smooth and approachable characteristics of Larceny.

Additionally, exploring other wheated bourbons, where wheat is a primary grain in the mash bill, can yield similar tasting experiences.

Brands like W.L. Weller or Old Fitzgerald, both produced by the same parent company as Larceny, offer alternatives with a similar wheated bourbon profile.

How do you get hard-to-find bourbon?

Acquiring hard-to-find bourbon can be a challenging yet rewarding pursuit. One strategy is to develop relationships with local liquor stores and establish communication with store owners or managers. Some stores may receive limited allocations and are willing to notify loyal customers when rare bottles arrive.

Joining bourbon enthusiast groups and online forums can also provide valuable information on release dates, store sightings, and potential trades. Attending whiskey events or tastings may offer opportunities to connect with other enthusiasts and gain insights into the availability of sought-after bottles.

Additionally, exploring secondary markets, while approached with caution due to potential risks, can sometimes be a way to obtain rare bourbons, although it is important to ensure the legitimacy of sellers and adhere to local laws and regulations.

Is bourbon losing popularity?

As of the latest data available, bourbon is not losing popularity; in fact, it continues to enjoy a robust and growing market globally.

The surge in craft spirits appreciation, coupled with the increasing interest in cocktail culture, has propelled bourbon to new heights.

While specific brands and expressions may experience fluctuations in demand, the overall trend suggests sustained and expanding popularity for bourbon among consumers.

Why is Jack Daniel’s not bourbon?

Jack Daniel’s is not classified as bourbon due to differences in the production process. While bourbon and Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey share similarities, the key distinction lies in the filtration method.

Bourbon undergoes a charcoal filtering process before aging in barrels, known as the Lincoln County Process; however, Jack Daniel’s takes this a step further with an additional filtering through sugar maple charcoal, known as the charcoal mellowing process.

This extra step, unique to Jack Daniel’s, places it outside the strict definition of bourbon, despite its adherence to many bourbon-making regulations.

Who owns Larceny Bourbon?

Larceny Bourbon is owned by Heaven Hill Brands, a prominent and independent distillery based in Kentucky, with a rich history dating back to the 1930s.

Heaven Hill is renowned for its diverse portfolio of spirits, including bourbons, ryes, and other whiskey expressions.

Larceny, known for its wheated bourbon profile, is part of Heaven Hill’s commitment to producing high-quality and distinctive whiskies.

Is Larceny barrel proof?

Yes, Larceny offers a barrel-proof variant known as Larceny Barrel Proof. This expression is uncut and unfiltered, directly drawn from the barrel, resulting in a higher alcohol by volume (ABV) content.

Larceny Barrel Proof provides enthusiasts with a more intense and concentrated flavor experience, showcasing the robust characteristics of the whiskey in its purest form.

It is often sought after by bourbon aficionados for its bold and unadulterated expression of Larceny’s distinctive wheated bourbon profile.

Is Larceny Barrel Proof allocated?

Yes, Larceny Barrel Proof is typically allocated, meaning its availability is limited and subject to controlled distribution.

As a higher-proof, uncut expression of Larceny Bourbon, the barrel-proof variant is often in high demand among whiskey enthusiasts, contributing to its allocated status.

Distilleries often use allocation to manage the release of limited editions and maintain fairness in distribution.

Is Larceny Bourbon smooth?

Larceny Bourbon is well-regarded for its smooth and approachable character. Known for its wheated bourbon mash bill, which includes wheat as a secondary grain, Larceny offers a softer and more mellow profile compared to bourbons with higher rye content.

The absence of a spicy kick from rye grain contributes to the smoothness of Larceny, making it an appealing choice for those who appreciate a gentle and easy-drinking bourbon.

What bourbon is John Wick?

In the popular film series John Wick, the character John Wick, portrayed by Keanu Reeves, is often associated with the bourbon brand Blanton’s.

The distinctive bottle with a horse and jockey stopper can be seen in various scenes throughout the movies, adding a touch of sophistication to John Wick’s character.

Blanton’s, a single-barrel bourbon, is known for its high quality and unique flavor profile, making it a fitting choice for the stylish and discerning assassin portrayed by Reeves.

What flavor is Larceny whiskey?

Larceny Bourbon is celebrated for its flavorful and well-balanced profile. Exhibiting notes of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of honey, Larceny delivers a sweet and rich palate.
 
The wheated mash bill imparts a smooth and creamy texture, enhancing the overall drinking experience. Subtle spice notes complement the sweetness, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Larceny’s flavor profile appeals to those who enjoy a bourbon with a touch of sweetness, complexity, and a remarkably smooth finish, making it a standout choice in the world of wheated bourbons.

So, Why is Larceny Bourbon Hard to Find?

Based on the information we’ve gathered so far, Larceny bourbon is hard to find nowadays.

The limited production and aging time greatly contribute to why this expression isn’t on most liquor stores and online retailers. 

Yes, Heaven Hill has been releasing Larceny three times per year, but in small batches, and that’s subject to allocation.

It’s hard to tell the states or regions where you can find this spirit (but there’s no harm in trying at Kentucky).   

References:

  1. Where Did All the Bargain Bourbon Go? Blame the Whiskey Mania
  2. Taste Test: Larceny’s Wheated Bourbon Is One of the Most Underrated Whiskeys on the Market
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