Old Forester is a bit of living history on our shelf, and one of the most honest values in the whole whiskey list. Known as America’s first bottled bourbon, it has been made continuously by Brown-Forman in Louisville, Kentucky for over 150 years. We keep the classic 86 proof expression behind the bar here in West Seattle because it is dependable, characterful, and built to mix, which makes it a quiet workhorse and a friendly neat pour alike.
About the Distillery
Old Forester was first bottled in 1870 by George Garvin Brown, founder of Brown-Forman, who pioneered the idea of selling bourbon exclusively in sealed glass bottles to guarantee quality and consistency. That made it the first bourbon sold this way, and it has been on the market longer than any other. Today it is produced by Brown-Forman in the Louisville area, with a flagship Old Forester Distilling Co. on historic Whiskey Row downtown.
Style & Mash Bill
This is a Kentucky straight bourbon built on a mash bill of 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% malted barley. The classic expression is bottled at 86 proof, a touch above the 80-proof minimum, which gives it a little more weight and flavor while staying remarkably approachable and easy to enjoy.
Tasting Notes
Expect a nose of caramel, vanilla, and a little baking spice. The palate is balanced and classic: sweet corn, brown sugar, and toffee with a gentle rye spice and a touch of oak. The finish is medium and warm, clean and uncomplicated. It is a textbook Kentucky bourbon at a friendly proof.
How to Enjoy It at Camp West
Our pour is $9, one of the best values on the list. It is perfectly pleasant neat or on the rocks, but Old Forester really earns its keep in cocktails: a Whiskey Sour, a Mint Julep, or a classic Old Fashioned. Ask your bartender to build one for you.
FAQ
Why is it called America’s first bottled bourbon? Founder George Garvin Brown was the first to sell bourbon exclusively in sealed bottles, in 1870, to guarantee quality, and it has been sold continuously ever since.
What proof is the classic Old Forester? The classic expression is 86 proof, slightly above the bourbon minimum for a little extra body and flavor.
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