Last Updated on: 29th April 2024, 08:53 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 everything about the Old Forester 100 in this in-depth review that answers all your related questions!
Reviewed by: J Highland
Old Forester 100 Proof: A Smooth & Affordable Bourbon (Great Value for Everyday Enjoyment)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Old Forester 100 Proof stands out as a fantastic value option within the Old Forester lineup. Here’s a breakdown of its strengths and weaknesses:
Strengths:
- Exceptional Value: Old Forester 100 offers a very attractive price point, making it a great budget-friendly choice.
- Surprisingly Smooth: Despite its higher proof (100), this bourbon maintains a smooth and easy-drinking character, surprising some who might expect a burn at this ABV.
- Versatile: Enjoy it neat, on the rocks, with a splash of water, or in cocktails. Old Forester 100 adapts well to different drinking preferences.
Weaknesses:
- Not Groundbreaking: While enjoyable, the flavor profile might not be particularly unique or complex compared to other bourbons.
Who Should Try It:
- Bourbon enthusiasts seeking a smooth and affordable 100-proof option.
- Anyone looking for a versatile bourbon for mixed drinks or everyday enjoyment.
Verdict:
Old Forester 100 Proof is a solid choice for those who prioritize affordability and smoothness. It may not be the most complex bourbon, but it delivers a consistent and satisfying drinking experience at a great price point. If you’re looking for a reliable and budget-friendly bourbon to add to your collection, Old Forester 100 Proof is definitely worth considering, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
- Related: Best 100-Proof Bourbons
- Learn more: Old Forester 100 Website
What’s unique about the 100-Proof Signature?
This 100-proof bourbon bears the notable signature of George Gavin Brown, the founder of Brown-Forman, on its label.
While it may not possess any standout characteristics, this detail adds a historical touch to the bourbon’s appeal.
How does Old Forester 100 Proof taste?
- Nose: Alcohol, oak, caramel
- Palate: Caramel, vanilla, cinnamon, chocolate, mint
- Finish: Spice, tobacco, oak
- Alcohol content: 100 proof (50% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water, cocktail
- Similar to: Knob Creek
Old Forester 100 presents an initial ethanol note on the nose that fades over time, uncovering pleasant scents of oak and caramel.
The palate delivers a medium-bodied experience, highlighting flavors of oak, caramel, cinnamon, bitter chocolate, cherries, and a hint of mint. Towards the end, a subtle barrel spice note emerges.
The finish is of moderate length, with subtle warmth, and features notes of spice, tobacco, and oak.
FAQ
A quick FAQ to address your doubts:
How to drink it?
- Add water: It can be enjoyed neat, but adding water enhances the sweetness and oak flavors while reducing spiciness.
Mash bill
- 72% Corn, 18% Rye, 10% Malted Barley.
Age
- No age statement, but it is aged for approximately 4 years.
Is it 100 chill-filtered?
- Yes, it is chill-filtered.
Alternatives
- Old Forester 1897 and Knob Creek are suggested alternatives. Old Forester 1897 is similar but with a higher price tag as a bottled-in bond release.
- Knob Creek offers a more refined taste with longer aging.
Price
- Drizly: $27 USD
- Total Wine: $26 USD
Alcohol content
- 100 proof (50% ABV).
Does it expire?
- No, alcoholic beverages do not expire.
- Proper storage in a cool place away from sunlight ensures its longevity.
- It is recommended to consume it once the content is down to 25% to avoid awkward notes.
How is it made?
- It is made from a mash of corn, rye, and malted barley.
- After milling and mashing, the grains are fermented for five to seven days using a proprietary yeast strain.
- The long fermentation process adds depth and complexity.
- The fermented grains are then twice distilled and matured in new American oak casks for approximately 4 years.
How did I review Old Forester 100 Proof Whisky?
I run a pub and a liquor store, granting me extensive access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller.
My evaluations include my insights and feedback from customers and patrons and whiskey expert opinions from Neil Coleman who has been for decades in the liquor business.
I also corroborate my views with online research to ensure accuracy.
Our ratings are determined primarily by four key factors: aroma, taste, finish, and value for money. While we do consider packaging, it is of lesser importance to us, as we prioritize the quality of the liquid inside over the aesthetics of the bottle.
⭐ – Poor, ⭐⭐ – Average, ⭐⭐⭐ – Good, ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Very Good, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent.
Old Forester 100 Proof: Specs
| Type of Whisky | Bourbon |
| Age statement | 4 years |
| Proof | 100 |
| ABV | 50% |
| Is it good? | Yes |
| Is it top-shelf? | No |
| Does it expire? | No |
| Sweet? | Moderately |
| Warm? | Just a bit |
| Peaty? | No |
| Good for beginners? | No |
| Good for cocktails? | Yes |
| Good with Coke? | Yes |
| Calories per shot | 108 |
| Gluten-free | Yes |
| Keto-friendly | Yes |