Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 01:47 pm
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Discover the differences between Early Times vs Old Forester in this in-depth comparison and decide which bourbon is better for You!
Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.
Written by: J Highland
Early Times vs Old Forester: Comparison
Early Times: A budget-friendly whiskey with a sweet profile of apricot, vanilla, and caramel on the nose, transitioning to a palate of apricot, caramel, nuts, and spice. Finishes short with fruity and oak spice notes. 80 proof.
Old Forester 86: Offers a balanced blend of brown sugar, caramel, and vanilla on the nose, with flavors of vanilla, banana, oak, and spice on the palate. The finish is short with caramel and oak. 86 proof.
The Verdict: “Early Times and Old Forester 86 cater to those seeking good value without the complexity of higher-priced bourbons. Early Times serves as an accessible, sweet option for easy sipping or as a cocktail base, ideal for budget-conscious drinkers. Old Forester 86, slightly higher in price, offers a smooth and versatile experience with a decent body making it suitable for both sipping and mixing.”, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Top Recommended Bourbons under $20
Early Times: Sweet Treat for Budget Booze Cruisers
- Nose: Apricot, vanilla, caramel
- Palate: Apricot, caramel, nuts, spice
- Finish: Short, fruity, oak spice
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
- Similar to: Buffalo Trace
Early Times might not be a complexity king, but for its price, it offers a smooth, sweet journey. The nose starts you off with a gentle wave of apricot, vanilla, and caramel, like a dessert teasing your senses.
On the palate, the sweetness continues with those apricots and caramel, joined by a hint of roasted nuts for a touch of depth. The finish isn’t long, but it fades out with a light fruity note, oak spice, and a whisper of acetone.
Is it mind-blowing bourbon? Nope. But for a budget-friendly option, it’s smooth and easy to drink. The young age shows, but it doesn’t translate to harshness or bitterness.
Why you might like it:
- Sweet and smooth, perfect for easy sipping.
- Makes great, affordable cocktails.
- No major flaws, just good, basic whiskey flavor.
- Easy on the wallet.
It might not be your drink if:
- You crave complex layers and bold character.
- You prefer a longer, more developed finish.
Bonus fact: Early Times isn’t technically a bourbon! It’s aged in used barrels, while bourbon requires new charred oak barrels for that signature flavor.
Ultimately, Early Times is a decent, no-frills choice for budget-minded whiskey lovers or those looking for a sweet base for cocktails. Give it a try and see if it hits your sweet spot!
Old Forester 86: Good Value without the Frills
- Nose: Brown sugar, caramel, ethanol
- Palate: Vanilla, banana, oak, spice
- Finish: Caramel, oak
- Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
- Similar to: Bulleit Bourbon
Old Forester 86 packs a straightforward yet decent punch for its price tag. Cracking open the bottle, you’ll be greeted by a bold ethanol aroma, which mellows into sweet notes of brown sugar and caramel.
On the palate, it feels smooth and medium-bodied, with a slightly musty character. Flavors include vanilla, banana, cinnamon, and a touch of charred oak that brings a subtle bitterness. The finish is short and sweet, featuring lingering notes of caramel and oak, but lacks a warming kick.
Is it a top-shelf bourbon? Not quite. Compared to bourbons like Bulleit or Buffalo Trace, it’s less complex. But hey, simplicity sometimes shines!
Why you might like it:
- Smooth and easy to drink neat or on the rocks.
- Higher proof (86) makes it good for mixing cocktails.
- No major flaws, just honest bourbon flavor.
- Great value for its price point.
- Beats budget bourbons like Jim Beam or Jack Daniel’s in taste.
It’s a good fit for:
- Budget-conscious bourbon drinkers.
- Fans of easy-sipping, straightforward spirits.
- Cocktail enthusiasts looking for a solid mixing base.
It might not be your cup of tea if:
- You crave complex depth and character in your bourbon.
- You prefer a fuller body and longer finish.
Fun facts:
- This iconic bourbon has been around since 1870, longer than any other!
- It was the first bourbon sold in sealed glass bottles, ensuring consistent quality.
- The brand is owned by the same folks who bring you Jack Daniel’s and Woodford Reserve.
Ultimately, Old Forester 86 is a no-frills bourbon that delivers honest flavor and good value. If you’re looking for a reliable sipper or cocktail base without breaking the bank, give it a go!
What do Early Times and Old Forester have in common?
Until 2020 they were both crafted at the same distillery.
Early Times was originally crafted at the Brown Forman Distillery in Shively along with the Old Forester but the brand was recently acquired by the Sazerac Company (Buffalo Trace) and is now produced at the 1792 Distillery in Bardstown.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whiskey | Price |
| Early Times | $14 |
| Old Forester 86 | $29 |