Old Forester 86 vs Old Forester 100

Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 08:04 pm

Discover the differences between Old Forester 86 vs Old Forester 100 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 86 vs Old Forester 100: Comparison

Old Forester 86: A straightforward bourbon with a smooth blend of vanilla, banana, and oak. Its simplicity and value make it a solid choice for everyday sipping or cocktails.

Old Forester 100: Offers a deeper dive with caramel, vanilla, cinnamon, and chocolate, wrapped in a smooth finish. Its versatility shines in cocktails and neat sips alike, presenting great value.

Verdict: Both Old Forester 86 and 100 deliver quality experiences at their price points. The 86 excels in unpretentious simplicity, while the 100 adds complexity and strength for a minimal price increase, making both excellent choices for bourbon lovers, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Best-Sipping Old Forester Bourbons

Old Forester 86: A Straightforward Sipper at a Great Price

• 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: Maker’s Mark

First Impressions: A whiff of ethanol greets you at first, but fear not, it quickly fades to reveal a sweet aroma of brown sugar and caramel. This bourbon doesn’t hide its simplicity, but promises a pleasing comfort.

Smooth & Musty Palate: On the tongue, it offers a medium-bodied experience. Smoothness takes center stage, accompanied by a touch of mustiness that adds character. Vanilla, banana, and cinnamon join the party, with a hint of charred oak spice adding a subtle bite.

Brief Farewell: The finish is quick, leaving behind a whisper of caramel and oak. No lingering warmth, just a clean goodbye.

Enjoying the Essentials: This bourbon is versatile. Sip it neat or on the rocks for a relaxed experience. Its higher proof makes it a budget-friendly choice for crafting an Old Fashioned.

Solid Value, No Surprises: While it won’t blow your mind with complexity, Old Forester 86 delivers a consistent and enjoyable experience. It surpasses other budget options in terms of smoothness and avoids off-putting flavors. But remember, the simplicity comes at the cost of the depth found in pricier bottles like Buffalo Trace.

A Legacy in Every Bottle: Aged for around 4 years and made with the same mash bill as its older sibling, Old Forester 86 carries the brand’s legacy of quality and affordability. It’s a bourbon that honors tradition without unnecessary frills, perfect for everyday enjoyment.

So, is it good? As a no-nonsense, budget-friendly option, Old Forester 86 definitely earns its place. If you seek a smooth, straightforward sip at a great price, this bourbon won’t disappoint. Remember, what it lacks in complexity, it makes up for in value and consistency. Cheers!

Old Forester 100: Unveiling Smoothness Beyond the First Sip

• 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

First Impressions: On initial encounter, a touch of ethanol greets your nose. Patience is rewarded, as it dissipates to reveal oak and caramel whispers, hinting at the treasures within.

A Dance of Oak & Sweetness: The palate welcomes you with a medium-bodied waltz of oak and caramel. As you linger, subtle notes of cinnamon, chocolate, cherries, and mint join the dance, creating a complex and intriguing flavor profile. Gentle barrel spice adds depth, ensuring every sip is an exciting discovery.

Warm Farewell: The finish lingers pleasantly, medium in length. Mild spice, tobacco, and oak leave a warm farewell, but no harsh bite. Its smoothness belies its 100-proof strength, making it a surprisingly easy sipper.

More Than Meets the Eye: Old Forester 100 shines beyond its neat enjoyment. A drop of water unlocks hidden sweetness and oak, while taming the spice. And for cocktail enthusiasts, it serves as a solid base, though the spicier Old Forester 100 Rye might steal the show in mixed drinks.

Daily Delight & Value Champion: This bourbon excels as a daily sipper. Its smooth character and lack of burn make it perfect for casual enjoyment. And with its current price point, it offers remarkable value for the quality.

A Legacy of Smoothness: Aged for around 4 years and crafted with a unique mash bill, Old Forester 100 honors its namesake’s legacy of comfort and enjoyment. Each sip whispers the story of tradition and innovation, making it a worthy companion for any bourbon aficionado.

So, is it good? Absolutely. Whether you’re a seasoned drinker or just starting your bourbon journey, Old Forester 100 offers a rewarding and surprisingly smooth experience. Give it a try and discover the hidden depths within its unassuming bottle.

How do Old Forester 86 and 100 differ?

The Old Forester 86 and 100 share the same mash bill and aging process, with the only distinction being the proof.

The 86 is bottled at a lower proof, indicating that it has been diluted with water prior to bottling, resulting in a more affordable product.

Price comparison

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Whiskey	Price
Old Forester 86	$24
Old Forester 100	$27