Old Forester Single Barrel Barrel Strength
Overview
Old Forester Single Barrel Barrel Strength is a robust bourbon that showcases the distillery's commitment to quality and innovation. Launched as part of their single barrel program, this expression is crafted to deliver a unique tasting experience, allowing bourbon enthusiasts to savor the depth of flavor that only a barrel-strength bourbon can provide.
Specs at a glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Style | bourbon |
| ABV | 130-136.2% (varies by barrel) |
| Mashbill | 72% corn, 18% rye, 10% malted barley |
| Release Info | Introduced in 2020, this bourbon is aged 6 years in Warehouse G, with heat cycling turned off for enhanced maturation. |
| Age | 6 years |
Good to know
Old Forester's single barrel program began in 2020, aiming to produce distinct, high-quality bourbons. The barrels are selected for their exceptional characteristics, and each release tends to showcase different flavor profiles influenced by their unique aging conditions.
Tasting notes
- Nose: Buttery toffee, huge oak, and chocolate ganache intertwine with hints of vanilla bean and baking spices.
- Palate: Expect a wave of heat complemented by an oily texture, featuring sweetened stone fruits, massive oak, and rich tobacco—with a flourish of cinnamon pie dough and german chocolate cake.
- Finish: The finish is layered with dark chocolate, creme brulee, and lingering pipe tobacco, rounded off with subtle ash notes.
Notable details
- Production: Bottled at barrel strength, non-chill filtered, matured in Warehouse G, built in 1950, where the heat cycling process was intentionally disabled.
- Lineage: Old Forester is one of America’s oldest bourbon brands, with a rich history dating back to 1870.
- Comparison: Often compared to Old Forester's own President's Choice, this barrel strength offering has been noted as superior by several reviewers.
- Availability: Typically priced between $80 and $100, with local allocations varying. The secondary market can see fluctuating interest depending on the barrel's reputation.
Serving suggestions
Enjoy neat or with a splash of water to open up the complex flavors. This bourbon is also a robust choice for classic cocktails, adding depth to an Old Fashioned or a Manhattan.
“A wave of heat balanced by rich layers of oak... an unexpectedly mature and blissful sipping experience.” – Source
Closing
Old Forester Single Barrel Barrel Strength is a testament to the craftsmanship of bourbon making, inviting both connoisseurs and curious newcomers to explore its bold and complex character.
Sources
[1] The Bourbon Culture – Old Forester Single Barrel Barrel Strength Bourbon Review
[2] Breaking Bourbon – Old Forester Single Barrel Barrel Strength Review
[3] Bourbon Culture – Old Forester Barrel Strength Single Barrel Comparison
[4] Columbus Bourbon – OHLQ Announces Old Forester Exclusives