If you’re a bourbon enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the world of whiskey, you’re in for a treat with Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style Bourbon. This gem from Brown-Forman in Louisville, Kentucky, is more than just a drink—it’s a sip of history. Paying homage to the Prohibition era, this bourbon boasts a rich and complex flavor profile that has captured the hearts of many.
With notes of vanilla, dark fruit, and caramel on the nose, followed by a robust blend of caramel, dark chocolate, and toasted oak on the palate, it promises a memorable experience. Let’s dive into what makes this bourbon a standout.
In-Depth Review On Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style Bourbon
Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style Bourbon offers a rich and complex flavor profile, making it a standout choice for whiskey enthusiasts. Distilled by Brown-Forman in Louisville, Kentucky, this bourbon pays homage to the Prohibition era, reflecting a historical significance that adds depth to its character. The nose reveals enticing notes of vanilla, dark fruit, and caramel, while the palate delivers a robust blend of caramel, dark chocolate, and toasted oak, balanced by a warm, spicy finish.
With an alcohol content of 57.5% and a price range of $50-$70, this bourbon provides both quality and value. Ideal for sipping neat or in cocktails, Old Forester 1920 is a versatile addition to any whiskey collection.
Distillery: Where Is It Made?
Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style Bourbon is crafted by Brown-Forman, a renowned distillery located in Louisville, Kentucky. This distillery has a rich history and is known for its commitment to quality and tradition. The location in Kentucky, a state famous for its bourbon production, ensures that Old Forester 1920 benefits from the region’s ideal conditions for distilling and aging whiskey.
The expertise and heritage of Brown-Forman contribute to the exceptional character and consistency of this Prohibition Style Bourbon.
Distillation & Aging: How Is It Made?
Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style Bourbon is produced using a meticulous distillation process that honors traditional methods. The bourbon is crafted with a carefully selected mash bill and distilled to achieve a high-proof spirit. It is then aged in charred oak barrels, which impart rich flavors and a deep amber color.
The aging process allows the bourbon to develop its complex profile, with notes of caramel, dark chocolate, and toasted oak. This attention to detail in both distillation and aging ensures that Old Forester 1920 maintains its exceptional quality and distinctive character.
Nose: What Does It Smell Like?
The nose of Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style Bourbon is rich and inviting, offering a complex bouquet of aromas. Upon first sniff, you are greeted with enticing notes of vanilla and dark fruit, followed by a deep layer of caramel and oak. These aromatic elements combine to create a well-rounded and balanced olfactory experience, setting the stage for the rich flavors to come.
The intricate aroma profile is a testament to the bourbon’s careful aging and high-quality ingredients.
Palate: What Does It Taste Like?
The palate of Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style Bourbon is a harmonious blend of rich and robust flavors. Upon tasting, you immediately notice the caramel and dark chocolate notes, which are complemented by hints of toasted oak and spices. This well-balanced combination creates a full-bodied and complex taste experience.
The layers of flavor unfold smoothly, offering both depth and nuance. The bourbon’s high proof adds an extra dimension, enhancing the intensity and richness of the taste.
Finish: What Is The Aftertaste Like?
The finish of Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style Bourbon is long, warm, and satisfying. As the flavors gradually fade, you are left with lingering notes of spice and toasted oak, which provide a pleasant and enduring aftertaste. The high proof contributes to a robust and intense finish, enhancing the overall drinking experience.
This well-rounded and complex aftertaste is a testament to the bourbon’s meticulous aging process and high-quality ingredients, leaving a memorable impression on the palate.
My Personal Thoughts
Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style Bourbon stands out as a remarkable expression of craftsmanship and history. The rich and complex flavor profile, with its notes of caramel, dark chocolate, and toasted oak, offers a deeply satisfying tasting experience. The high proof adds an extra layer of intensity, making each sip robust and full-bodied.
The meticulous distillation and aging process are evident in the bourbon’s well-rounded finish, which lingers pleasantly on the palate. This bourbon is ideal for both seasoned whiskey enthusiasts and those new to premium bourbons, providing a perfect balance of tradition and quality.
Flavor Profile
Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style Bourbon boasts a rich and complex flavor profile. The initial taste reveals notes of caramel and dark chocolate, which are beautifully complemented by hints of toasted oak and spices. This well-balanced combination creates a full-bodied and layered taste experience, making each sip both robust and satisfying.
The high proof enhances the intensity and richness, adding depth to the overall flavor, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience.
Who Would I Recommend It To?
I would recommend Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style Bourbon to both seasoned whiskey enthusiasts and newcomers to premium bourbons. Its complex and rich flavor profile, combined with its historical significance and high quality, makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to explore the depths of fine bourbon. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, this bourbon offers a versatile and rewarding experience that appeals to a wide range of palates.
Price: How Much Does It Cost?
Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style Bourbon is priced in the premium range, typically costing between $50 and $70. This price reflects the bourbon’s high quality, meticulous production process, and historical significance. The cost is justified by its rich and complex flavor profile, making it a valuable addition to any whiskey enthusiast’s collection.
Whether you’re purchasing it for personal enjoyment or as a gift, the investment in Old Forester 1920 ensures a rewarding and memorable bourbon experience.
The Best Ways To Enjoy Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style Bourbon
Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style Bourbon can be enjoyed in various ways to fully appreciate its rich and complex flavor profile. For a pure and unadulterated experience, it is best sipped neat, allowing the intricate notes of caramel, dark chocolate, and toasted oak to shine. Adding a few drops of water can open up the bourbon, enhancing its aromatic complexity.
For those who prefer a chilled drink, serving it on the rocks can mellow the high proof, making it smoother and more approachable. Additionally, this bourbon is an excellent choice for cocktails, adding depth and character to classic drinks like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan. Pairing it with complementary foods such as dark chocolate, nuts, or aged cheeses can also elevate the tasting experience.
Food Pairings
Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style Bourbon pairs exceptionally well with a variety of foods that complement its rich and complex flavor profile. Dark chocolate enhances the bourbon’s caramel and dark chocolate notes, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Nuts, such as almonds and pecans, bring out the toasted oak and spice elements, adding depth to the tasting experience.
Aged cheeses, like Gouda or cheddar, provide a savory contrast that highlights the bourbon’s robust character. These food pairings not only enhance the bourbon’s flavors but also create a well-rounded and enjoyable culinary experience.
Cocktails
Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style Bourbon is an excellent choice for crafting classic and contemporary cocktails. Its high proof and rich flavor profile add depth and complexity to drinks like the Old Fashioned and Manhattan. In an Old Fashioned, the bourbon’s caramel and spice notes blend seamlessly with the sweetness of sugar and the bitterness of bitters, creating a balanced and flavorful cocktail.
In a Manhattan, the bourbon’s robust character stands up well to the vermouth and bitters, resulting in a sophisticated and satisfying drink. Whether enjoyed neat or in a cocktail, Old Forester 1920 elevates the drinking experience with its exceptional quality and taste.
Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style Bourbon vs George T Stagg Bourbon
Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style Bourbon and George T Stagg Bourbon are both highly regarded in the whiskey world, each offering unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Old Forester 1920 is known for its rich and complex flavor profile, with notes of caramel, dark chocolate, and toasted oak, and is priced between $50 and $70. It pays homage to the Prohibition era, providing a historical context that adds depth to its character.
In contrast, George T Stagg Bourbon is part of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection and is renowned for its intense and bold flavors, often featuring high proof and robust notes of dark fruit, leather, and spice. This bourbon is typically more expensive and harder to find, appealing to collectors and connoisseurs who seek a powerful and memorable drinking experience. Both bourbons offer exceptional quality, but Old Forester 1920 is more accessible and versatile, making it suitable for a broader audience, while George T Stagg is ideal for those who appreciate a more intense and exclusive bourbon.
