Olivia Taylor
About Old Forester
For any self-respecting bourbon lover, the very mention of Old Forester stirs up feelings of reverence and excitement. The oldest bourbon brand in America, in continuous production since its inception, Old Forester has distinguished itself with its commitment to quality and consistency, delivering a wide range of bourbons that are appreciated by fans and experts alike.
Started in 1870 by George Garvin Brown, a former pharmaceutical salesman, the brand has built its reputation on Brown’s radical idea of selling whisky in sealed bottles to ensure its quality. Over the years, Old Forester has explored the full spectrum of bourbon flavors, offering expressions that range from the classic 86 Proof to the highly esteemed Birthday Bourbon.
The Arrival of a New Limited Edition
All bourbon lovers know the thrill of discovering a new limited-edition release. But for Old Forester fans, the unveiling of a new limited-edition Bottled in Bond Bourbon is reason enough to break out in celebration. And the latest addition to their lineup does not disappoint. It’s called the 117 Series, created by Old Forester’s Master Taster, Jackie Zykan. The 117 Series honors George Garvin Brown’s original selling location on Louisville’s historic whisky row.
Unveiling the Old Forester 117 Series
Be prepared to be wowed. This amazing new concoction has been aged to perfection at eight years old, in the highest altitude “hotspot” at Old Forester’s rickhouses or barrel storage facilities. These are the most intense maturation environments within the facilities, resulting in a whiskey brimming with rich, deep flavors and complexity.
What’s more, at 100-proof, this is a Bottled in Bond product. This means it follows the stipulations of the Bottled in Bond Act of 1897 that requires whiskies to be the product of a single distillation season and distillery, aged in a federally bonded warehouse and bottled at 100 proof. This ensures that every drop in that bottle is as authentically bourbon as it gets.
Tasting Notes
But you’re probably wondering how this bourbon tastes, right? Well, get ready for a flavor-filled adventure. On the nose, you’ll be greeted with sweet aromas of caramel, a touch of toasted oak, and ripe red fruits. This gives way to a palate rich in butterscotch, creamy vanilla, and robust oak. You’ll also find a hint of spiced dried dark fruits with honey drizzles. The finish? Long, warm, and wonderfully complex, with lingering spice notes that have you reaching for a second, heck, maybe a third glass.
Pairing Suggestions
Like most bourbons, the Old Forester 117 Series pairs beautifully with a hearty steak dinner or a juicy, grilled burger. If you’re opting for dessert, consider dishes with caramel or vanilla undertones to beautifully match the bourbon’s palate. Dark chocolate truffles would also complement the bold flavors of this spirit.
Final Thoughts
The Old Forester 117 Series Bottled in Bond Bourbon is a top-notch addition to Old Forester’s already impressive lineup. It showcases the best qualities of the brand – commitment to quality, legacy, and tradition coupled with an innovative spirit, creating must-try bourbons. It’s so good, it has us chanting, “Long live Old Forester!” Such a star, indeed.
As a whiskey enthusiast, I am thrilled to hear about the release of Old Forester’s new limited edition bottled-in-bond bourbon. Aged for four years in a single barrel, this whiskey promises a full and rich flavor that can only come from high-quality craftsmanship. I can already imagine the delightful flavor journey that awaits, and I can’t wait to add this stellar addition to my whiskey collection.