When Tom Bulleit first launched his brand in the late 1980s, the product was called "Thoroughbred" and was produced at the Ancient Age distillery (now Buffalo Trace DSP-KY-113). These early bottles had a square shape, similar to those used for other bourbons of that era, such as Elmer T. Lee (Weller Centennial). The initial branding focused on Kentucky's connection to horse racing, utilizing the "Thoroughbred" name and often featuring a horse on the label.  The first bottles released in 1995 included a 90 proof bourbon as well as a 100 proof “Thoroughbred” bourbon. 

The design is totally “old school,” and while it’s not nearly as ‘standout’ as the orange label, these bottle designs were much simpler. They were offered with an original (black and gold) carton which are incredibly rare to come across in this day and age. There was an early French export release, as well as a Japanese-labeled Thoroughbred which was imported by Nippon Food GmbH. Contract distilling is different than the NDP model we know today, where Tom Bulleit had the bourbon distilled and barreled on his behalf and then he waited. Trust the process they say.