The Old Forester Signature 100 Proof honors the legacy of founder George Garvin Brown, who put his signature on every bottle. And this bourbon is definitely one he would be proud to have his name on today.
Today, Old Forester has been on the market continuously for longer than any other bourbon and was the first bourbon sold exclusively in sealed bottles. It was first bottled and marketed in 1870 by the former pharmaceutical salesman turned bourbon-merchant George Garvin Brown — the founder of the Brown–Forman Corporation (whose descendants still manage the company today).
During the Prohibition period from 1920 to 1933, Brown–Forman received one of only six licenses authorizing lawful production (for medicinal purposes).
Bourbon Review: Old Forester Signature 100 Proof
ABV: 50% (100 Proof)
Age: Not Disclosed
Mash Bill: 72% Corn, 18% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
Distilled By: Old Forester Distilling Company
Location: Louisville, KY (USA)
The Nose: An abundance of oak rises from the glass with a nose of caramel and cherries close behind. The cherries become the lingering aroma on subsequent pulls from the glass which also sees the slightest bit of vanilla.
The Taste: Oak dominates the palate with elements of roasted pecans, maple and a touch of a caramel. There is some heat on the finish, but not as much as you would expect with a 100 proof pour. A secondary sip sees a bit of pepper and a touch of clove but none take away from the sweet finish of this inexpensive bourbon.
The Finish: When I go to my local cigar bar I usually start out with a single of something more expensive to wet my palate and give me that moment of relaxation. But I almost always follow that up with a double of the Old Forester Signature 100. I do this for two reasons, the primary being price and a close second being the taste profile. Some might think this would work better in an Old Fashioned and they would be 100% spot on, but I am just fine sipping on it neat. At the price, it is a must have for any bar.
Score: 90
Price: 25.99 (750 ml in New Hampshire, USA)
