Old Forester 86 Proof
The distillery, built in 1935, is the largest distillery in Louisville. However, unlike many other bourbon distilleries, only two bourbons are still produced here today. The first is the Old Forester, which inherited its name from the Forester distillery that used to be not far away. The second and far more famous bourbon is Early Times, whose name is also borne by the distillery. Old Forester is the only bourbon that was continuously distilled by the founding family before, during and after Prohibition.
Tasting Notes
Nose
The Old Forester 86 Proof immediately impresses with its dominant banana flavour. The thought "What the hell: banana!!!" comes to mind, as this note is so unusual and yet so tantalising. A hint of marzipan potato continues to unfold, followed by caramel, which envelops the nose with a sweet warmth. The oak emerges discreetly and complements the sweet flavours perfectly. A splash of vanilla ice cream rounds off the bouquet and you can literally sense a banana split with amaretto, which adds a seductive depth and complexity.
Palate
The sweet profile continues on the palate, starting with a clear caramel note. This is accompanied by nutty and marzipan-like flavours that give the bourbon a rich texture. The flavour is a little flat, but this is compensated by the distinctive note of rye bread, especially pumpernickel. A hint of ginger provides a subtle spiciness and enlivens the palate with a fresh flavour.
Finish
The finish of the Old Forester 86 Proof is long and satisfying. The oak remains present and forms the basis of the aftertaste, while a spicy-sweet component ensures lasting pleasure. The balance between the sweet and spicy elements makes the finish particularly pleasant and invites further enjoyment.
Thoughts
Marcel 71/100
Old Forester 86 Proof impresses with its surprising banana note and sweet, almost playful character – a bourbon that's genuinely fun and, with its spicy finish, leaves you wanting more. For anyone seeking uncomplicated drinking pleasure with a touch of mischief, it’s a loyal companion.
Sascha 71/100
The Old Forester 86 Proof displays a solid balance between sweet caramel and spicy rye notes, yet remains somewhat one-dimensional in flavor. Its clear structure and long, balanced finish make it a reliable bourbon, especially providing newcomers with a straightforward point of reference.
Value for Money: Excellent
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Why does the Old Forester 86 Proof have such a pronounced banana aroma on the nose?
The distinctive banana scent arises from the specific yeast strains and fermentation process used in crafting this bourbon. These fruity esters are typical of certain bourbon styles and give Old Forester 86 Proof its unusual yet pleasant aromatic profile.
How does Old Forester 86 Proof differ from other bourbons in terms of its production history?
Old Forester is unique because it is the only bourbon continuously distilled by the founding family before, during, and after Prohibition. This uninterrupted production history is reflected in its traditional style and time-tested recipe.
What does the '86 Proof' designation mean for this bourbon, and how does it relate to the alcohol content in percent?
'86 Proof' is an American measure of alcohol content and corresponds to 43% alcohol by volume. The proof number is twice the alcohol percentage, so Old Forester 86 Proof has exactly 43% ABV.