Old Forester, a well-respected name in the bourbon world, has just released the latest addition to its 117 Series: a bourbon finished in rum barrels. This innovative twist is designed to appeal to both bourbon and rum enthusiasts, offering a unique tasting experience that blends the best of both spirits.
Image credit: Old Forester
Details of the Release
Unveiled on a recent Wednesday, the Old Forester 117 Series Rum Finish is a bourbon that has been aged and then finished for approximately six months in rum barrels. This process infuses the bourbon with rich, sweet flavors that complement its original profile. The bourbon is bottled at 95 proof and is available in 375-milliliter bottles, each priced at $64.99. For those looking to buy more, a set of two bottles is available for $129.98.
Tasting Notes
Image credit: Old Forester
According to Old Forester's Assistant Master Distiller Caleb Trigo, the rum barrel finishing enhances the bourbon’s sweet aromatics, introducing hints of brown sugar and molasses, and giving it a rich character. The official tasting notes from the brand describe a nose of toffee, banana custard, freshly picked apples, and coconut shavings. The taste features rich tropical fruit, banana, coconut, toffee, barrel spice, and well-integrated tannins, while the finish is lingering and easy-going with cream and spice, and a hint of sweet fruit and red licorice.
Availability
The Old Forester 117 Series Rum Finish can be purchased at the distillery’s retail shop and online, with shipping available to Washington, D.C., Kentucky, Nebraska, New Hampshire, and North Dakota. Additionally, specialized retailers in Kentucky will carry the bourbon.
Historical Context
The Old Forester 117 Series was launched in 2021, with each release offering a unique maturation method. Previous editions include Warehouse H, aged in a rickhouse known for its extreme temperature shifts, and the 1910 Extra Extra Old, which was aged for an unusually long time. The series also featured High Angels’ Share, derived from barrels with high evaporation rates, and Whiskey Row Fire, commemorating a fire that affected Louisville's Whiskey Row.
Tribute to History
The Rum Finish edition pays homage to the historical commercial trade along the Ohio River, which flows behind Old Forester’s distillery on Whiskey Row. In the past, many cask-aged spirits, including rum, were shipped via this route. This historical connection inspired the latest addition to the 117 Series, celebrating the intertwining of bourbon and rum traditions.
Broader Context and Comparison
Bourbon finished in rum barrels is not a new concept, but it’s one that has been gaining popularity. Other notable examples include Wild Turkey Master’s Keep Voyage, Jefferson’s Old Rum Cask Finish, Kentucky Peerless Rum Barrel Finished Bourbon, Angel’s Envy Rye, Barrell Tale of Two Islands, and Redemption Rum Cask Finish. These releases have shown how secondary maturation in rum barrels can enhance the complexity and sweetness of bourbon.
While Old Forester has not disclosed the specific origin of the rum barrels used for this release, it's worth noting that Brown-Forman, Old Forester’s parent company, recently acquired Venezuelan rum brand Diplomatico, making it a potential source.
Conclusion
The Old Forester 117 Series Rum Finish is a testament to the brand’s innovative spirit and respect for tradition. By blending the rich heritage of bourbon with the sweet, tropical notes of rum, Old Forester has created a whiskey that is sure to delight fans of both spirits. Available in limited quantities, this unique release is a must-try for any whiskey enthusiast.
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About Old Forester
Old Forester holds a significant place in the history of American bourbon, being recognized as the longest continuously distilled and marketed bourbon brand. Established in 1870 by George Garvin Brown, Old Forester was one of the first bourbons to be sold exclusively in sealed glass bottles. This innovative packaging decision was made to ensure consistency and quality, setting a standard for the industry that endures to this day.
The bourbon is named after Dr. William Forrester, a physician and friend of George Garvin Brown. The brand survived Prohibition by being one of the few to receive a government permit for medicinal whiskey, allowing it to continue production during the otherwise dry years. This unique historical background contributes to the brand's enduring legacy and cultural significance.
Old Forester produces a range of bourbon expressions, with each bottle bearing a distinct flavor profile. The brand is committed to using a proprietary yeast strain and a heat-cycled aging process to impart specific characteristics to its whiskies. The Old Forester Signature 100 Proof, Old Forester 1870 Original Batch, and Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style are just a few examples of the brand's diverse offerings, each catering to different palates and preferences.
In recent years, Old Forester has experienced a resurgence in popularity, with a growing appreciation for its rich history and the craftsmanship behind its bourbons. The brand's commitment to quality, consistency, and innovation continues to resonate with bourbon enthusiasts, making Old Forester a staple in the world of American whiskey. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in classic cocktails, Old Forester remains a symbol of enduring tradition and a testament to the artistry of bourbon-making.
