A Timeless Classic: The Old Forester Whiskey and Distillery
by Alek Olson
Old Forester, a name synonymous with American whiskey, has long been revered by enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. With its rich history, unwavering commitment to quality, and vibrant flavors, Old Forester has remained a mainstay in the whiskey world since its inception. In this comprehensive article, we take an in-depth look into the fascinating story behind this iconic brand, exploring its roots, evolution, and the heart of its distillery, which has played an integral role in shaping the American whiskey landscape.
Part I: A Storied History - The Birth of Old Forester
The Beginning
Old Forester traces its roots back to 1870 when George Garvin Brown, a former pharmaceutical salesman, decided to revolutionize the whiskey industry. At the time, whiskey was typically sold in barrels and frequently adulterated by unscrupulous merchants, leading to inconsistent quality and taste. Determined to change the status quo, Brown introduced the concept of selling whiskey in sealed glass bottles to ensure quality and purity. This innovative approach quickly gained traction, and Old Forester soon became the first bottled bourbon in America.
A Unique Namesake
Named after Dr. William Forrester, a respected physician and Brown's friend, Old Forester was endorsed by the medical community for its consistency and quality. This endorsement proved pivotal in establishing the brand's reputation as a premium whiskey. The name "Old Forester" has since become synonymous with quality and trust, a testament to the brand's commitment to excellence throughout its storied history.
Prohibition and Beyond
Through the years, Old Forester has withstood the test of time, even surviving the Prohibition era by obtaining a federal license to produce whiskey for medicinal purposes. As one of only ten distilleries granted such a license, Old Forester continued to flourish while many other whiskey brands faltered. This resilience demonstrated the brand's staying power, solidifying its place in American whiskey history.
Following the repeal of Prohibition, Old Forester continued to grow and innovate, expanding its product line and maintaining its commitment to quality. The brand's legacy has been passed down through five generations of the Brown family, and today, it remains a family-owned business under the umbrella of the Brown-Forman Corporation, which also includes other notable brands such as Jack Daniel's and Woodford Reserve.
Part II: The Old Forester Distillery - A Legacy of Craftsmanship
The Heart of the Brand
The Old Forester Distillery, located in Louisville, Kentucky, on the famed Whiskey Row, has been the heart and soul of the brand. Throughout its history, the distillery has been committed to using only the finest ingredients and maintaining traditional distilling methods to produce exceptional whiskey.
Traditional Techniques
Old Forester is one of the few distilleries that still employ the time-honored process of heat-cycling. This method involves raising and lowering the temperature within the warehouses, causing the whiskey to expand and contract within the barrels. The resulting interaction between the liquid and the wood imparts a depth of flavor and complexity that is uniquely Old Forester.
In-house Cooperage
Another aspect that sets Old Forester apart is its commitment to cooperage. The distillery produces its own barrels, ensuring control over the entire whiskey-making process. By crafting barrels from American white oak, Old Forester ensures that the whiskey matures in the optimal environment, contributing to its signature taste. This hands-on approach to barrel production showcases the brand's dedication to the craft, setting it apart from many other whiskey producers.
The Art of Fermentation
Old Forester takes great care in the fermentation process, using a proprietary yeast strain that has been passed down through generations. This unique strain contributes to the distinct flavor profile that has come to define Old Forester whiskey. By carefully controlling the fermentation process and using the highest quality ingredients, the distillery ensures that each batch of whiskey remains true to the brand's heritage.
Distillation and Maturation
The distillery utilizes traditional copper pot stills for distillation, which allows for a more hands-on and controlled approach to the whiskey-making process. Copper pot stills are known for producing a richer, more robust spirit, which contributes to Old Forester's signature flavor profile.
During the maturation process, Old Forester whiskey is aged in new, charred American white oak barrels. The charring of the barrels caramelizes the wood sugars, which imparts unique flavors such as vanilla, caramel, and spice into the whiskey. Over time, the whiskey interacts with the wood, air, and temperature, developing a complex and distinctive taste that has become synonymous with Old Forester.
Part III: The Whiskey - Distinctive and Timeless
The Old Forester 86 Proof
The Old Forester 86 Proof is a versatile, well-balanced bourbon that has been the cornerstone of the brand for over a century. With a mash bill of 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% malted barley, this expression is renowned for its rich, smooth taste, and notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice. The 86 Proof has become a staple in many whiskey aficionados' collections, serving as a reliable and enjoyable pour for any occasion.
The Old Forester Birthday Bourbon
The Old Forester Birthday Bourbon, released annually to celebrate the founder's birthday, is a limited-edition offering that showcases the brand's commitment to innovation and excellence. Each year, Master Distiller Chris Morris hand-selects barrels to create a unique blend that offers a distinct flavor profile, making it a highly sought-after collector's item. This expression is celebrated for its rarity and exclusivity, and it has become a favorite among whiskey enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Old Forester Prohibition and Beyond
In addition to the flagship 86 Proof and Birthday Bourbon, Old Forester has introduced several other remarkable expressions that pay homage to the brand's rich history and legacy. The Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style Bourbon, for instance, celebrates the brand's resilience during Prohibition. This expression is crafted at 115 proof, which was the typical barrel-entry proof during that era, and features a robust, full-bodied flavor with notes of dark chocolate, cherry, and oak.
The Old Forester Statesman, inspired by the film "Kingsman: The Golden Circle," is another exceptional expression that pays tribute to the brand's American heritage. With a higher proof and a bolder flavor profile, the Statesman showcases the brand's versatility and willingness to push the boundaries of traditional whiskey-making.
Part IV: Visiting the Old Forester Distillery
The Ultimate Whiskey Experience
A visit to the Old Forester Distillery offers whiskey enthusiasts an immersive experience into the brand's rich history and time-honored craft. Located in the heart of Louisville's Whiskey Row, the distillery provides guests with a unique opportunity to witness the whiskey-making process up close, from the selection of grains to the bottling of the final product.
Guided Tours and Tastings
Visitors can embark on guided tours that take them through the various stages of whiskey production, offering an in-depth look at the art and science behind Old Forester's exceptional bourbon. Following the tour, guests are invited to participate in tastings, where they can sample a variety of Old Forester expressions and learn about the unique flavor profiles that set each one apart.
Blending Room and Master Classes
For a more hands-on experience, visitors can try their hand at creating their own custom blend in the on-site blending room. Under the guidance of expert whiskey makers, guests learn about the intricacies of blending and how different combinations of whiskeys can create unique and exciting flavors. Additionally, the distillery offers master classes, where participants can delve deeper into the art of whiskey-making and learn advanced techniques from industry professionals.
The Old Forester Store and Whiskey Bar
No visit to the Old Forester Distillery is complete without stopping by the Old Forester Store and Whiskey Bar. The store offers a wide range of branded merchandise, exclusive whiskey releases, and unique gift items that allow guests to take a piece of the Old Forester experience home with them. The Whiskey Bar, located on the distillery grounds, provides a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for guests to enjoy Old Forester's signature pours and specialty cocktails crafted by expert mixologists.
Old Forester Whiskey and Distillery is a testament to the power of innovation, craftsmanship, and dedication to quality. With its rich history and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Old Forester has earned its place as a beloved and iconic brand in the American whiskey landscape. A visit to the distillery in Louisville, Kentucky, is not only a journey through time but also a celebration of a timeless classic that continues to enchant whiskey enthusiasts worldwide. From its humble beginnings to its enduring legacy, Old Forester remains a shining example of the American spirit and a true testament to the art of whiskey-making.
