Old Forester 1920 vs Woodford Reserve Double Oaked

Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 01:55 pm

Discover the differences between Old Forester 1920 vs Woodford Reserve Double Oaked 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 1920 vs Woodford Reserve Double Oaked: Comparison

Old Forester 1920 features caramel, banana, and spice on the nose with a palate of brown sugar and vanilla. The finish is medium with cinnamon and oak. It’s 115 proof and best with water or on rocks. It’s a sip of history, recalling Prohibition-era bourbon styles.

Woodford Reserve Double Oaked presents oak, butterscotch, and vanilla on the nose, leading to a palate of vanilla, caramel, and brown sugar. The finish is long with notes of vanilla and espresso. At 90 proof, it’s enjoyed on rocks or in cocktails, offering a richer, deeper flavor profile.

Verdict: “Both whiskeys offer unique sipping experiences. Old Forester 1920 combines historical charm with a robust flavor profile, while Woodford Reserve Double Oaked indulges with a richer, sweeter taste. Each boasts its own distinct character, making both excellent choices for different reasons.”, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Top Old Forester Bourbons

A Toast to History: Deconstructing Old Forester 1920

• 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: Eagle Rare

Prohibition Legacy: This bourbon boasts a unique backstory. Crafted using methods reminiscent of a bygone era, it captures the spirit of a time when whisky flowed (albeit for “medicinal purposes”) under Prohibition’s shadow. Bottled at 115 proof, it reflects a style company president Owsley Brown I might have enjoyed back then.

Sweet & Spicy Symphony: Open the bottle and inhale the sweet embrace of caramel, followed by a touch of banana and subtle rye spice. A hint of alcohol peeks through, hinting at its higher proof but never overpowering.

Smooth Operator: Take a sip, and let the velvety texture caress your palate. Vanilla and caramel lead the flavor parade, joined by brown sugar and a nutty nuance. The high proof delivers a gentle warmth, a reminder of its potency without being aggressive.

Lingering Warmth: The finish plays out over a decent stretch, leaving your mouth slightly dry and pleasantly warm. A sweet cinnamon aftertaste lingers, harmonizing with caramel, oak, and a touch of spice.

Verdict: Sipping Satisfaction: This bourbon excels as a sipping companion. It’s well-balanced, bursting with flavor, and the high proof is handled flawlessly, avoiding any harshness. While the finish could be longer, it delivers all the desired notes: sweetness, warming comfort, oak richness, and zero unpleasant surprises.

Bonus Cheers:

• Aged around 4 years, this expression boasts maturity without sacrificing vibrancy.
• The mash bill (72% Corn, 18% Rye, 10% Malted Barley) adds complexity and a touch of rye spice.
• A true survivor, Old Forester has been around since 1870, making it the longest-running bourbon brand in existence.

So, should you raise a glass? If you appreciate historical nods, well-balanced flavor, and a smooth sipping experience, Old Forester 1920 deserves a spot in your glass. Just remember, its higher proof provides a gentle warmth, not a fiery burn. Cheers!

Double Oaked Delight: Uncork Luxurious Woodford Reserve

• Nose: Oak, butterscotch, vanilla, brown sugar
• Palate: Vanilla, caramel, brown sugar, old leather
• Finish: Long, vanilla, butterscotch, espresso coffee
• Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
• How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
• Similar to: Maker’s Mark 46

Warm Welcome: The first sniff brings a warmth that unfolds into captivating aromas of aged oak, rich caramel, smooth vanilla, and hints of brown sugar. Breathe it in, and anticipation builds.

Buttery Bliss: Glide it across your tongue, and a luxurious wave of buttery smoothness washes over you. The warmth from the nose returns, now carrying the decadent flavors of vanilla, caramel, and brown sugar.

Layered Luxury: Subtle hints of aged leather and charred oak peek through, adding depth and complexity. Each sip unveils new nuances, making it an intriguing journey for the taste buds.

Lingering Pleasure: The finish lingers effortlessly, with vanilla and butterscotch notes that warm you like a comforting hug. A whisper of espresso coffee adds a final touch of sophistication.

Verdict: Sweetness Amplified: This double-oaked expression takes Woodford Reserve’s classic profile to a new level. It’s richer, sweeter, and boasts a satisfying warmth that settles happily in your chest. While slightly warmer than its standard counterpart, it’s far from harsh, offering pure sipping pleasure.

Bonus Bytes:

• Aged for 7 years, then re-racked for 9 months in heavily toasted, lightly charred barrels, creating intense flavor.
• The rye in the mash bill (72% corn, 18% rye, 10% barley) adds a touch of spice, keeping things interesting.
• A 2013 Double Gold Medal winner at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, a prestigious award indeed!

So, is it for you? If you seek a luxuriously smooth and flavorful bourbon with amplified sweetness and warming comfort, Woodford Reserve Double Oaked is an exceptional choice. Just remember, the warmth brings a deeper experience, not a fiery burn. Indulge and enjoy!

What do they have in common?

They are made from the same mash bill and are owned by the same parent company (Brown Forman).

How do they differ?

Old Forester is crafted in Louisville, KY while the Woodford Reserve in Versailles, KY.

Price comparison

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Bourbon	Price
Old Forester 1920	$56
Woodford Reserve Double Oaked	$49