In a momentous celebration of Old Forester's 150th anniversary, the renowned distillery has unveiled its rarest and most exclusive creation to date—the 150th Brown-Forman Decanter. Owned by Brown-Forman, the parent company of esteemed brands such as Jack Daniel's, Woodford Reserve, Herradura Tequila, and The GlenDronach, Old Forester has long been associated with producing high-quality and collectible whiskeys.
This exceptional release is filled with 12.5-year-old bourbon, carefully selected by master distiller Chris Morris on April 18, 2008. The six barrels chosen for this release underwent an aging process of 150 months on the top floor of warehouse J, rick 44, tier 1—a detail that whisky enthusiasts may find particularly intriguing. Originally, 500 bottles were crafted in 2020 for members of the Brown-Forman family, with 150 reserved for special tastings and events. However, due to the unforeseen global pandemic in 2020, these plans were put on hold, leading to the release of this extraordinary decanter to the public.
What sets this whiskey apart goes beyond its potential flavor profile, as no samples were available for evaluation. While Old Forester has seen previous 12-year releases like the Birthday Bourbon, the 150th Decanter distinguishes itself through its rarity, distinctive marketing, and the physical aesthetics of the bottle itself. The design pays homage to Old Forester's historic holiday decanters from the 1950s and '60s, originally crafted by Raymond Loewy, a pioneer in industrial design. The decanter is presented in a custom box made from wood salvaged from the fire that occurred at Old Forester's Whiskey Row location in 2015, adding a unique historical touch.
For those fortunate enough to acquire a bottle, the price tag stands at $2,500, and initial reports suggest that this exclusive release has already sold out. However, enthusiasts can expect to see these decanters appearing on the secondary market at triple the original price. The fortunate buyers will not only own a piece of whiskey history but will also be treated to a VIP tour of the distillery, accompanied by cocktails and appetizers with the Brown family.
In a parallel announcement, Old Forester detailed a special experience for those who managed to secure a bottle. On December 5, 2023, the anniversary of the repeal of Prohibition, purchasers will have the opportunity to pick up their limited edition bottles at the Old Forester Distillery in Louisville, KY. The three-hour experience includes an after-hours VIP tour, allowing buyers to delve into the brand's rich history and witness firsthand the craftsmanship behind this exceptional bourbon.
Old Forester's 150th anniversary release is a testament to the brand's enduring legacy and commitment to crafting unparalleled spirits. This rare and exquisite decanter encapsulates not only the exceptional quality of Old Forester bourbon but also the historical significance and craftsmanship that define the brand.
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About Old Forester
Old Forester holds a special place in the history of American bourbon as it is one of the few bourbon brands that have continuously operated before, during, and after Prohibition. Established in 1870 by George Garvin Brown, Old Forester is based in Louisville, Kentucky, and is considered one of the oldest bourbon brands with an unbroken production history.
Old Forester is known for its traditional and consistent approach to bourbon-making. The brand uses a mash bill that primarily includes corn, along with rye and malted barley, and the bourbon is aged in new charred oak barrels. The signature yeast strain used in fermentation is a key component in achieving the unique flavor profile of Old Forester.
The brand's flagship product, Old Forester Kentucky Straight Bourbon, is a well-balanced and approachable bourbon known for its smoothness and versatility. It's aged in a heat-cycled warehouse, a factor that contributes to the bourbon's depth and complexity. Old Forester also produces a range of expressions, including variations in proof, barrel strength releases, and limited-edition offerings.
One notable aspect of Old Forester is its association with the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897. Old Forester was the first bourbon to be sold exclusively in sealed glass bottles to ensure quality and authenticity. The use of the term "Bottled in Bond" indicates that the bourbon meets strict legal requirements, including being the product of one distillation season, one distillery, and aged for at least four years in a federally bonded warehouse.
In recent years, Old Forester has expanded its portfolio with innovative releases and expressions. The Whiskey Row series, for example, explores different periods in Old Forester's history, offering unique and limited-edition bourbons.
Old Forester's enduring legacy, commitment to quality, and its historical significance in the bourbon industry contribute to its esteemed reputation among whiskey enthusiasts. The brand's rich heritage and continued innovation make it a notable player in the world of American bourbon.
