In a celebration of its rich heritage, Old Forester, the oldest-selling bourbon since 1870, has introduced the latest addition to its illustrious Whiskey Row Series – the Old Forester 1924, a 10-year-old bourbon that pays homage to a pivotal moment in the brand's history. This new expression, the fifth in the series, features a groundbreaking mash bill, setting it apart from its predecessors.
A Historical Toast: 100 Years of Distilling Innovation
The year 1924 holds a special place in the annals of Old Forester's 153-year history. In the midst of Prohibition, a time when more than 200 distilleries in Kentucky shuttered their operations, Old Forester not only persevered but thrived. The federal government granted Old Forester one of only six permits, allowing the distillery to continue bottling existing whiskey stocks as medicinal elixirs. In 1924, the brand took a bold step, acquiring barrels from closed distilleries with unique mash bills, a practice that continues to influence its offerings today.
Master Taster Melissa Rift expressed her honor in commemorating this historic milestone, stating, "It allows whisky lovers to taste just how dynamic our brand can be while staying rooted in our rich history."
A Unique Mash Bill for a Distinctive Bourbon
Old Forester 1924 introduces a novel mash bill that deviates from the brand's traditional composition. While the standard recipe comprises 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% malted barley, the 1924 embraces a daring blend of 79% corn, 11% rye, and 10% malted barley. This departure results in a slightly sweeter and less spicy taste, providing a unique sensory experience for bourbon enthusiasts.
Tasting Notes: A Symphony of Flavors
Bottled at a robust 50% alcohol by volume (ABV) and priced at $115, the Old Forester 1924 offers a sensory journey through a decade of aging. The deep, dark graham cracker color sets the stage for a bourbon that delights the palate with chocolate-covered graham cracker dusted with cinnamon. Aroma enthusiasts will discover soft notes of fudge, cocoa, marzipan, and cured tobacco, layered over hints of rich oak and warm cinnamon. The finish leaves a tantalizing aftertaste of spice and graham cracker crumbles, rounding off a symphony of flavors that define this exceptional bourbon.
The Whiskey Row Series Legacy
The Old Forester Whiskey Row Series 1924 joins the esteemed ranks of its predecessors, each bottle immortalizing a significant chapter in Old Forester's storied history:
- 1870 Original Batch – Celebrating the distillery's opening.
- 1897 Bottled in Bond – Commemorating the Bottled-in-Bond Act.
- 1910 Old Fine Whisky – Recalling a fire on the bottling line.
- 1920 Prohibition Style – Embracing the spirit of the Prohibition era.
- 1924 10 Year Old – Honoring a century of whiskey innovation.
This latest release is a testament to Old Forester's enduring commitment to quality and innovation, inviting enthusiasts to savor not just a bourbon but a journey through time. As with previous releases, the Old Forester 1924 is available nationwide at participating retailers and at Old Forester Distilling Co., inviting bourbon connoisseurs to partake in a taste of history.
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.
