Old Forester 1920 vs Old Forester Statesman: Bourbon Comparison

Last Updated on: 8th April 2024, 05:38 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.

Unearth the differences between Old Forester 1920 and Old Forester Statesman in this comprehensive analysis, and determine which bourbon is the preferred choice 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 1920 vs Old Forester Statesman: Comparison

Old Forester 1920: A bourbon offering a well-balanced mix of caramel, banana, and spices. Its 115 proof delivers warmth without overpowering, ideal for enthusiasts.

Old Forester Statesman: Bold cinnamon and cherry flavors define this bourbon, inspired by the Kingsman movies. A unique choice for those seeking a spirited blend with a cinematic twist.

Verdict: Old Forester 1920 provides a classic bold bourbon experience with a touch of history, while Old Forester Statesman satisfies fans of the Kingsman movies with an easy sipping bourbon, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Best Old Forester Bourbons

Old Forester 1920: A Well-Balanced Bourbon with a Historic Touch

Nose: Caramel, banana, spice, ethanol
Palate: Brown sugar, vanilla, caramel
Finish: Medium, cinnamon, caramel, oak, spice
Alcohol content: 115 proof (57.5% ABV)
How to drink: Add water, rocks
Similar to: Old Forester 1910

Inviting Aroma: The first whiff reveals a pleasing sweetness, dominated by notes of caramel, banana, and a hint of rye spice, with a subtle touch of alcohol warmth.

Rich and Smooth: The initial sip greets you with a creamy texture, creating a full-bodied and satisfying mouthfeel.

Delightful Flavor: The taste profile is a harmonious blend of sweet vanilla, caramel, brown sugar, and subtle nuttiness, offering a pleasant warmth without being overpowering.

Lingering Finish: The finish lingers for a moderate length, leaving a dry and slightly warm sensation. This fades into a pleasant aftertaste of cinnamon, caramel, oak, and a touch of lingering spice.

A Well-Rounded Experience: Old Forester 1920 stands out as a highly enjoyable bourbon. Its well-balanced and flavorful profile successfully manages its high 115 proof, offering a satisfying experience without overwhelming the palate.

Classic Elements: While not overly long, the finish delivers the quintessential elements of a high-quality bourbon: a touch of sweetness, a pleasant warmth, and a rich oakiness, all culminating in a pleasant and satisfying conclusion.

A Tribute to History: The 115-proof bottling of Old Forester 1920 serves as a tribute to the brand’s history. It pays homage to a specific barrel sample that company president Owsley Brown I would have likely chosen to bottle at the onset of Prohibition.

Behind the Bottle: Despite lacking an official age statement, this bourbon is estimated to mature for roughly four years. Crafted with a mash bill of 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% malted barley, Old Forester 1920 joins the ranks of other successful brands like Jack Daniel’s and Woodford Reserve, all owned by Brown-Forman Corporation but originating from separate distilleries.

A Taste of Kingsman: Exploring Old Forester Statesman

Nose: Cinnamon, cherry, oak, brown sugar
Palate: Honey, caramel, vanilla, cinnamon, black pepper
Finish: Medium, cherry, oak, cinnamon
Alcohol content: 95 proof (42.5% ABV)
How to drink: Add water, rocks
Similar to: Old Forester 1910

Kingsman Connection: Released in 2017 alongside the action movie “Kingsman: The Golden Circle,” Old Forester Statesman holds a special place for fans, evoking the film’s secret spy organization disguised as a distillery.

Aroma: The first impression is a bold cinnamon presence, intertwined with pleasant notes of cherry, brown sugar, and oak, creating a warm and inviting aroma.

Flavor Profile: The initial sip starts sweet and rich with honey and caramel, followed by a warming kick of peppery cinnamon. The finish lingers with a distinct cherry cough syrup flavor alongside oak and more cinnamon, leaving a lasting impression of this signature spice.

Enjoyment: While Statesman is perfectly enjoyable neat, adding a drop of water can help tame the pepper heat, making it smoother for some palates.

Overall: This bourbon offers classic tasting notes with a unique emphasis on cinnamon. While it lacks an age statement and carries a higher price point, Statesman remains a good whiskey with a distinct character, appealing to fans of the Kingsman franchise and those seeking a bolder bourbon experience.

Behind the Bottle: Crafted with a mash bill of 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% malted barley, Statesman uses barrels specifically chosen from the warmest areas of the warehouse. This process contributes to the bourbon’s bolder flavor profile. While an official age statement is absent, some sources suggest the whiskey could be aged up to 5 years.