Old Forester was founded in 1870 by George
Garvin Brown. Every September 2nd, Old Forester releases a limited edition,
vintage-dated bourbon to commemorate his birthday and legacy. The media kit for
this year's Birthday Bourbon noted that it is being released at both 96 proof
and 95.4 proof. This is a result of alcohol vapors being lost during the
bottling process as bourbon was transferred from the holding tank to the
bottling line. The sample I received from Brown-Forman is the 96 proof
bottling.
Details:
Age: 12 years old
Proof: 96 proof
Price: $79.99
Nose: Sweet caramel and whip
cream with toasted oak, walnuts, and a hint of citrus.
Taste: Tobacco and pepper spice balance out a sweet body
of sugar cane, cocoa powder, and Boston cream.
Finish: Subtle sweetness quickly fades into a drying oak.
Conclusion: Although this fell a bit short from
expectations set by prior releases, I very much enjoyed the 2017 Old Forester
Birthday Bourbon. It's well balanced and easy to drink. If you can find
it anywhere close to MSRP, I suggest taking it home with you. Until next year,
Happy Birthday George!
Rating: B+ (Very Good)
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