Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 01:34 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 Old Forester 1870 vs Woodford Reserve 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
Old Forester 1870 vs Woodford Reserve: Comparison
Old Forester 1870: Features aromas of raisins, leather, and cherry; the palate brings caramel, vanilla, and banana, with a finish of dark chocolate and oak. A smooth, easy-drinking bourbon suitable for newcomers.
Woodford Reserve: Offers a nose rich with mint and honey; the palate combines sweet oak with cinnamon and mint, leading to a warm caramel finish. A balanced bourbon that pleases both new and experienced drinkers.
Verdict: Old Forester 1870 and Woodford Reserve share a foundation in quality and craftsmanship, reflecting their heritage under Brown-Forman. Old Forester 1870 excels in providing a gentle and accessible introduction to bourbon, with its mild character and inviting flavors. Woodford Reserve, with its slightly longer aging, offers a deep, nuanced experience, balancing sweetness and spice in a way that appeals to a broad audience, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Best Old Forester Whiskey Selections
Old Forester 1870: Smooth Sailing for Bourbon Beginners
- Nose: Raisins, leather, cherry, caramel, oak
- Palate: Caramel, vanilla, cherries, banana, pepper
- Finish: Dark chocolate, oak, caramel
- Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water, cocktail
- Similar to: Old Forester 1920
Uncork a Friendly Aroma: Take a whiff of Old Forester 1870 and let the scent of fruitcake, caramel, and vanilla draw you in. A subtle hint of ethanol provides a gentle warmth to the invitation.
Mellow & Delightful Sip: On the palate, the fruitcake theme continues, balanced by cinnamon, toasted caramel, and a touch of oak. The smoothness makes it a pleasure to savor, offering a relaxed and uncomplicated experience.
Warm Comfort Finish: The finish wraps up gently with a hint of oak bitterness that adds depth without overpowering. Charred caramel dances on the tongue, leaving a satisfying warmth.
Easygoing Enjoyment: For those seeking a mellow and approachable bourbon, Old Forester 1870 delivers. Its smooth profile makes it an ideal sipper, perfect for unwinding without surprises.
No-fuss Satisfaction: This bourbon doesn’t boast bold statements, but it offers consistent quality and a pleasant journey from start to finish. It’s a reliable choice for casual moments when you simply want a good pour.
Neat or on the Rocks: Whether you enjoy it neat or on the rocks, OF 1870 shines. Its mild character creates a pleasant experience without being heavy-handed.
Old Fashioned Option: While enjoyable neat, its lack of punch might not translate well to a robust Old Fashioned. Consider other bourbons if you’re looking for a stronger cocktail base.
History Unveiled: 1870 nods to the year when the founder started blending barrels to ensure consistency. Today, it carries that legacy forward, offering a reliable and enjoyable sip.
Ready for a smooth and uncomplicated bourbon experience? Old Forester 1870 awaits.
Woodford Reserve: Smooth & Balanced Bourbon for Every Sip
- Nose: Rich in mint, honey, vanilla, citrus
- Palate: Sweet oak, cinnamon, mint, ripe fruit
- Finish: Lingering warmth and caramel
- Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
- Similar to: TINCUP American Whiskey
A Gentle Invitation: Let your senses be greeted by the welcoming aroma of Woodford Reserve. Think fresh wood, a touch of mint, and hints of vanilla and caramel – a prelude to a smooth and inviting experience.
Sweet & Spirited: On the palate, this bourbon dances between sweetness and spice. Smooth oak mingles with notes of cinnamon and mint, while a touch of fruit adds a playful twist. It’s a balanced flavor profile that keeps you coming back for more.
Warm & Satisfying Finish: The finale leaves you with a smile. Sweetness lingers, complemented by comforting oak and a gentle warmth that stays with you long after the last sip.
The Gold Standard: No wonder Woodford Reserve is a top-seller. Its balance and lack of harshness make it a crowd-pleaser, enjoyable by both bourbon veterans and curious newcomers.
For Sipping & More: Enjoy this sweet and mellow bourbon neat or on the rocks. Its smooth and clean profile shines through, making it a perfect everyday companion.
Bonus Fact: Woodford Reserve’s unique aging process, using heat cycling, contributes to its smooth and consistent character.
Whether you’re a bourbon aficionado or just starting your journey, Woodford Reserve deserves a spot on your shelf.
What do they have in common?
Made from the same mash and bottled at the same proof
These bourbons are made from the same mash comprised of 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% barley which is the standard mash used by every Old Forester and Woodford Reserve bourbon as they belong to the same parent company.
Both brands are owned by Kentucky-based Brown Forman along with Jack Daniel’s.
They are also bottled at the same 90-proof.
How do Old Forester 1870 and Woodford Reserve differ?
These bourbons are crafted at different distilleries and aged at different lengths providing sufficient contrasts.
1870 is aged for 4.5 years while the Woodford Reserve for 7.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Bourbon | Price |
| Old Forester 1870 Original Batch | $36 |
| Woodford Reserve | $30 |