Last Updated on: 30th April 2024, 08:08 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 Rye Whiskey in this in-depth review that answers all your related questions!
Reviewed by: J Highland
Old Forester 100 Proof Rye: A Solid Rye Whiskey for Sipping and Especially Cocktails (Great Value)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Old Forester 100 Proof Rye seems to have impressed you with its versatility and quality for the price. Here’s a breakdown of its strengths:
Strengths:
- Satisfying & Well-Priced: This rye whiskey delivers a complete and enjoyable experience from start to finish, all at a competitive price for its quality and higher proof.
- Cocktail Champion: The rye spice shines in cocktails, particularly elevating classics like the Old Fashioned.
- Complexity for Enthusiasts: Seasoned rye fans will appreciate the level of complexity and robust flavors offered by the Old Forester Rye.
- Approachable Spice: While it has a noticeable rye spice, a touch of water can help enhance the sweetness and make it more manageable for those who prefer a milder rye experience.
- Full-Bodied with Pleasant Warmth: The well-rounded mouthfeel and warming finish add to the enjoyable drinking experience.
Verdict:
The Old Forester 100 Proof Rye appears to be a dependable and versatile rye whiskey. It offers a satisfying experience for sipping neat, with the option of adding a touch of water to adjust the spice level. However, where it truly shines is in cocktails, particularly those that benefit from a bold rye character.
The combination of complexity, affordability, and quality makes this a great value for rye whiskey enthusiasts, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
- Related: Best Old Forester Whiskeys
- Learn more: Old Forester 100 Proof Rye
Tasting Notes
- Nose: Rye spice, spearmint, cinnamon
- Palate: Rye spice, cinnamon, clove, vanilla, caramel
- Finish: Medium length, anise, clove, cinnamon
- Alcohol content: 100 proof (50% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
- Similar to: Sazerac Rye
The nose brings forward the spicy essence of rye, accompanied by hints of spearmint and cinnamon.
Upon tasting, the whiskey delivers a satisfying peppery kick with pronounced flavors of cinnamon, clove, and other baking spices.
This is followed by a pleasant balance of vanilla, caramel sweetness, and a touch of licorice.
The finish is notable for its slight sharpness and warm sensation, leaving behind a lingering combination of rye spice, oak, and persistent notes of cinnamon throughout the experience.
Old Forester Rye Whiskey FAQ
Alternatives
If you enjoy the bold, spicy character of Old Forester Rye, here are some alternatives to explore:
- For an even spicier Rye: Try Bulleit Rye (95% rye) or Whistlepig/Alberta Premium (100% rye).
- For a smoother Rye: Opt for Sazerac Rye, known for its subtle spice and similarities to Buffalo Trace (both made by the same distillery).
How to drink Old Forester Rye?
- Classic Cocktails: Old Forester’s bold spice makes it ideal for Old Fashioneds and Manhattans.
- On the Rocks: Enjoy the rye’s character neat or on the rocks for a satisfying drink.
Old Forester Rye Mash Bill:
- Unique Rye Content: Unlike most rye whiskeys (minimum 51% rye), Old Forester uses 65% rye for a spicier flavor profile.
- Malted Barley Influence: The 20% malted barley adds a touch of refinement to the rye spice.
Age and Chill Filtration:
- Age: Old Forester Rye doesn’t have an age statement, but it’s estimated to be around 4 years old.
- Chill Filtration: Yes, Old Forester Rye is chill-filtered, which is standard for this price range.
Price and Storage:
- Great Value: Old Forester Rye offers excellent value for its price (around $26-$27).
- Storage: Keep it cool and dark for long-term storage.
- Consumption Tip: Enjoy it before it reaches 25% full to avoid potential flavor changes.
Does Rye Whiskey Expire?
Technically no, but whiskey can lose its quality over time. Consume it before it reaches 25% full to enjoy its best flavor.
How did I review Old Forester Rye Whiskey?
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 Rye 100-Proof Whiskey: Specs
| Type of Whiskey | Rye |
| Age statement | NAS (4) |
| Proof | 100 |
| ABV | 50% |
| Is it good? | Yes |
| Is it top-shelf? | No |
| Does it expire? | No |
| Sweet? | Moderately |
| Warm? | A bit |
| Peaty? | No |
| Good for beginners? | No |
| Good for cocktails? | Yes |
| Good with Coke? | Not the best |
| Calories per shot | 108 |
| Gluten-free | Yes |
| Keto-friendly | Yes |