Old Forester 2021 Birthday Bourbon
Old Forester will release the 21st iteration of its limited-edition, vintage-dated Birthday Bourbon on Sept. 2 in celebration of founder George Garvin Browns birthday. This year marks the 151st year of the company he began in 1870.
The 2021 Birthday Bourbon will be bottled at 104 proof and is made up of 119 barrels, aged 12 years, and barreled on April 16, 2009. After showing exceptionally unique character during a tasting panel, the 12-year-old barrels were chosen specifically for this years Birthday Bourbon.
Price Of The Old Forester Bourbon
You can expect to find a bottle of Old Forester bourbon 86 proof to stock your drink cabinet at around $14-$18. Its one of the best value bourbon considering the versatility of flavors and usages. Some of the batch variations will come at a higher price, though:
- Old Forester 100 proof : $30-$40
- Birthday Bourbon: $130
To keep your bourbon cabinet top-up, wed undoubtedly recommend the standard and trusted 86 proof, that packs a superb nose and palate under its small price.
Great Bourbon Shouldnt Be Impossible To Find Just Impossible To Forget
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Please Sip Responsibly
Please do not share or forward this content to anyone under the legal drinking age.
To find out more about responsible consumption, visit Responsibility.org and OurThinkingAboutDrinking.com
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To celebrate the birthday of Old Foresters founder, George Garvin Brown, the distiller is releasing the 21st expression of its Birthday Bourbon on September 2.
This years release has been created from 119 12-year-old barrels, filled on April 16, 2009, and released at 104 proof. This year also marks Old Foresters 151st anniversary, making it the only bourbon brand with an uninterrupted history, sold by the same family company before, during and after Prohibition.
Birthday Bourbon is a special release that not only commemorates the memory of George
Garvin Brown, but also celebrates the legacy that he built which continues to live on, said master taster Jackie Zykan. Im honored to be able to share such a delicious offering to celebrate our founders milestones, and to be a part of raised glasses for special moments in the lives of our fans.
Old Forester Birthday Bourbon will be available starting September 2 at the retail shop at Old Forester Distilling Co. and nationwide in limited 750ml bottles. Additionally, this year there will not be an online release or any specialty tours at Old Forester Distillery for Birthday Bourbon. The suggested retail price is $129.99.
The Whiskey Rocks Verdict
Is it good?
The Old Forester bourbon is not only Americas first bottled bourbon, but it is also the longest bourbon to have been continuously distilled. Under its rustic appearance lies a pleasantly sweet drink that builds up layers of tastes in the mouth. There are many delicate flavors and scents that you can pick up, even if you are not an experienced bourbon enthusiast.
If theres only one bourbon you can have in your drink cabinet, the Old Forester bourbon is your best choice. A decent choice that doesnt blow either your money, not your mind, the Old Forester is easy on the palate. As a go-to staple, it is an excellent, versatile choice that is either bland or overpowering. For enthusiasts who want a real taste of rustic Americas bourbon history, you can experience flavors that are in many ways as close to the original bourbon as possible.
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Old Forester Birthday Bourbon Release Set For September 2 2021
The latest Old Forester Birthday Bourbon release features a 12 year age statement and lands on our bourbon release calendar for a September drop. We review everything bourbon lovers need to know from price to proof.
First off however, the concept behind Old Forester Birthday Bourbon traces back to the distillerys founder, George Garvin Brown. As a salute and celebration to his legacy, the distillery releases its birthday bourbon on Browns birthday, September 2nd.
Moreover, the bourbon company has many achievements associated with its heritage. One being that it is has been on the market continuously for longer than any other bourbon more than 150 years. It has been one of the rare brands that has remained in the same family for that extent of time. Another cool fact about Old Forester is that it was the first bourbon brand to sell bottled bourbon whiskey.
This year, weve composed a bold and compelling offering which showcases the unique fruit-forward side of Old Forester,
-Master Taster Jackie Zykan
Zykan added, Playful berry undertones with summery dessert notes balance out to our flagship spice finish while taking sippers on a textural journey from velvety to dry mouthfeel.
Review & Tasting Notes
This release marks the 21st edition of Birthday Bourbon, launched back in 2002. It has grown to become one of the most highly sought after Old Forester offerings. Over the course of this vintage-dated bourbon, it has ranged from 90 to 105 proof. The age statements have ranged from 9-14 years.
This years batch is the second-highest proofing to date at 104 proof, while also proclaiming a 12-year age statement. The 2021 release is derived from 119 barrels that were all filled on April 16th, 2009. Those barrels were then aged in Warehouse G to mature.
Each release is rare and unique to the year, therefore one-of-a-kind flavor profiles that are never recreated. As for the 2021 Old Forester Birthday Bourbon tasting notes, we outline each segment below.
Color
Golden Citrine
Nose
Aroma: A beautiful symphony of berry and dessert components. Red raspberry preserves join plump, juicy blackberries and dried strawberries to set the tone, nestled in a bed of dried herbs and balanced with vanilla creme brulee, subtle pecan, rich maple syrup, and cocoa.
Palate
Taste: Rich and inviting, the velvety mouthfeel carries notes of buttery caramel, burnt sugar, and a touch of fresh baked Linzer cookie. This silky palate quickly awakens into a bright, peppery, peripheral spice.
Finish
Lengthy and warm with subtle dryness. Subdued notes of chocolate, raisin and cool herbs linger in the shadow of stark oak spice.
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Old Forester Set To Launch 21st Edition Of Its Birthday Bourbon
Old Forester has announced the upcoming release of its coveted, 21st edition of Birthday Bourbon.
The 2021 release comes from 12-year-old barrels and clocks in at 104 proof. Old Forester distillers note that this batch consists of 119 barrels filled on April 16, 2009, all matured in Warehouse G.
This year, weve composed a bold and compelling offering which showcases the unique fruit-forward side of Old Forester, said Old Forester Master Taster Jackie Zykan in a prepared statement. Playful berry undertones with summery dessert notes balance out to our flagship spice finish while taking sippers on a textural journey from velvety to dry mouthfeel.
Old Forester Birthday Bourbon 2021
Old Forester Birthday Bourbon is a vintage-dated bourbon, selected from one specific day of production and released each year on Sept. 2nd to celebrate the birthday of Old Forester founder George Garvin Brown.
Since Birthday Bourbons introduction in 2002, the juice has ranged in age from 9-14 years old, with proofs from 90 to 105.
This year marks Old Foresters 151st anniversary, which Zykan said is historic, as it makes Old Forester whats said to be the only bourbon brand with an uninterrupted history, sold by the same family company before, during and after Prohibition.
Old Forester 2020 Birthday Bourbon
Old Forester will release the 20th iteration of its limited-edition, vintage-dated Birthday Bourbon on Wednesday, Sept. 2 in celebration of founder George Garvin Browns birthday. This year marks the 150th year of the company he began in 1870.
The 2020 Birthday Bourbon will be bottled at 98 proof and is made up of 95 barrels, aged 10 years, and barreled on June 5, 2010. After showing exceptionally unique character during a tasting panel, the 10-year-old barrels were chosen specifically for this years Birthday Bourbon. The full allotment of the product represents one days production of Old Forester.
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Release Date & Availability
As we previously noted, this bourbon release date isnt really negotiable due to the symbolism behind the entire lines concept. It coincides with the birthday of Old Foresters Founder, George Garvin Brown.
Therefore, it is expected to be released every September 2nd. The presser for its official release launched on July 8th, 2021. Thus, confirming that September 2, 2021 will be a highly anticipated day for bourbon lovers around the globe.
You will be able to buy this new bourbon release at the Old Forester Distilling Co. gift shop in Louisville, KY. Additionally, it will be available at select retailers nationwide.
As for allocation, there were 119 barrels filled during production. Without factoring in the angels share and the proofing process, this equates to roughly 6,307 gallons of this fine juice. Relative to the allocation for the 2020 release, 2021 should see around a 25% increase in bottles available.
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Line Forms Early For Limited Release Of Old Forester Birthday Bourbon
Pictured: the limited edition birthday batch of Old Forester bourbon as seen at the brand’s distillery in downtown Louisville, Ky., on Sept. 2, 2021. Brown-Forman releases a limited number of the bottles to celebrate the birthday of the distillery’s founder, George Garvin Brown.
Pictured: people waiting to buy a bottle of Old Forester birthday bourbon outside the brand’s distillery at 119 W. Main Street in downtown Louisville, Ky., on Sept. 2, 2021.
Pictured: people waiting to buy a bottle of Old Forester birthday bourbon at the brand’s distillery at 119 W. Main Street in downtown Louisville, Ky., on Sept. 2, 2021.
Pictured: a man buys a bottle of Old Forester birthday bourbon at the brand’s distillery at 119 W. Main Street in downtown Louisville, Ky., on Sept. 2, 2021.
Pictured: a woman offers cupcakes to a man waiting in line to buy a bottle of Old Forester birthday bourbon at the brand’s distillery at 119 W. Main Street in downtown Louisville, Ky., on Sept. 2, 2021.
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Every year people from across the U.S. visit Louisville for a chance to buy the limited edition Old Forester Birthday Bourbon, and this year was no exception.
A line formed early Thursday outside the Old Forester Distillery at 119 West Main Street in downtown Louisville as the special birthday batch came up for sale. Brown-Forman releases a limited number of the bottles every year to celebrate the birthday of the distillery’s founder, George Garvin Brown.
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Who Makes Old Forester Bourbon
Interestingly, descendants of George Garvin Brown hold more than 70% of the companys voting shares, so it is fair to say that bourbon has remained a family affair. Perhaps, that would explain why the Brown-Forman Corporation is one of the largest US-owned companies in the business of wines and spirits.
While the company started with bourbon, they rapidly grew the portfolio of products to focus on various products, including whiskey, wine, vodka, tequila, and liqueur. The company produces many recognizable brands that populate our drink cabinets. One of them is the unmissable Jack Daniels or even Woodford Reserve, a premium bourbon blend that competes against small-batch specialists 1792 Bourbon. < insert link to 1792 Bourbon review>
Bottled at 43% alcohol by volume, with an 86 U.S. proof, The Old Forester has an average alcohol content for the bourbon market. Worth noting, the former Old Forester Signature has a 100 proof for 50% abv, while the Old Forester Birthday Bourbon, released first in 2002, has a 95 U.S. proof . The Old Forester Statesman, which has been released as a marketing event along the film Kingsman: The Golden Circle, is also bottled at 95 proof. You can also find a wink to the 1920 -1933 period with the 1920 Prohibition Style Old Forester bourbon, bottled at 115 proof.
Old Forester Sets 21st Release Of Annual Birthday Bourbon
LOUISVILLE, Ky. The release of Old Foresters Birthday Bourbon will be available on Sept. 2, the birthday of Old Foresters founder George Garvin Brown.
The 2021 release is from 12-year-old barrels and presented at 104 proof. The batch is comprised of 119 barrels filled on April 16, 2009, and matured in Warehouse G.
This year marks Old Foresters 151st anniversary, making it the only bourbon brand with an uninterrupted history, sold by the same family company before, during and after Prohibition.
Birthday Bourbon is a special release that not only commemorates the memory of George Garvin Brown, but also celebrates the legacy that he built which continues to live on, said Master Taster Jackie Zykan. Im honored to be able to share such a delicious offering to celebrate our founders milestones, and to be a part of raised glasses for special moments in the lives of our fans.
Old Forester Birthday Bourbon will be available starting Sept. 2 at the retail shop at Old Forester Distilling Co. and nationwide in limited 750ml bottles. Additionally, this year there will not be an online release or any specialty tours at Old Forester Distillery for Birthday Bourbon.
Brown-Formans brands are supported by approximately 4,700 employees and sold in more than 170 countries worldwide.
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Old Forester 21st Release Of Annual Birthday Bourbon
Press images of the 2021 Birthday Bourbon can be found here.
LOUISVILLE, Ky., The highly anticipated release of Old Foresters Birthday Bourbon will be available on September 2, the birthday of Old Foresters founder George Garvin Brown.
The 2021 release is from 12-year-old barrels and presented at 104 proof. The batch is comprised of 119 barrels filled on April 16, 2009, and matured in Warehouse G. This year marks Old Foresters 151st anniversary, making it the only bourbon brand with an uninterrupted history, sold by the same family company before, during and after Prohibition.
Old Forester Celebrates Founder George Garvin Browns Birthday with 21st Iteration of Birthday Bourbon on September 2
Birthday Bourbon is a special release that not only commemorates the memory of George Garvin Brown, but also celebrates the legacy that he built which continues to live on, said Master Taster Jackie Zykan. Im honored to be able to share such a delicious offering to celebrate our founders milestones, and to be a part of raised glasses for special moments in the lives of our fans.
Old Forester Birthday Bourbon will be available starting September 2nd at the retail shop at Old Forester Distilling Co. and nationwide in limited 750ml bottles. Additionally, this year there will not be an online release or any specialty tours at Old Forester Distiller for the Birthday Bourbon iteration.
The suggested retail price is $129.99.
Notes:
Color: Golden Citrine
About Brown-Forman:
Msrp & Secondary Price
Birthday Bourbon is available in a 750ml offering for an MSRP of $130. Being as it is a highly sought after offering with limited allocation, secondary market prices will demand many times over that that retail price.
Suggested retail pricing is set for $130. However, anyone who has looked for this bourbon personally can attest that it is a major find if you can spot it in the wild. Moreover, if youre willing to pay secondary prices, get ready to pony up for around $1,000 or more per bottle.
Be sure to and to see all of our latest Bourbon Accessories, New Gear, Shirts, and other fun stuffas theyre released!
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Where Is The Old Forester Bourbon Made
The Old Forester bourbon is distilled in Shively, Kentucky. Its worth noting that Kentucky counts 68 distilleries as of 2018, which together craft 95% of the worlds bourbon supply. The Old Forester is one of the bourbons thats helped make Kentucky the capital of bourbon.
The mash bill used contains:
- 72% corn,
- 18% rye,
- 10% malted barley
The Brown-Forman distillery also uses the same mash bill for their premium, high-end market bourbon, Woodford Reserve. Admittedly, the barrel seasoning makes all the difference between the two products. It is a high-rye recipe that contains a higher rye content than most bourbons. Despite its generous helping of rye, the Old Forester bourbon does not taste like Rye whiskey.
The Old Forester process tends to focus on bottling bourbon after 4 to 5 years in barrel, except for the Old Forester Birthday Bourbon variation, which uses 8-year-old barrels. Yet, important information for history enthusiasts: Brown-Forman distillery produces The 1870 Original, which uses only 21 barrels for limited filtering to stay loyal to the initial process established by George Garvin Brown.
It’s Nearly Impossible To Find A Bottle On Its 20th Release
What were drinking: Old Forester Birthday Bourbon, its 20th iteration.
Where its from: Old Forester has been around for 150 years and is revered as the first bourbon to be sealed in a glass bottle. The Birthday Bourbon is an annual release to celebrate founder George Garvin Browns birthday on September 2nd.
The Birthday Bourbon releases all hail fromone days production from a particular year this time out, that means a total of 95 barrels aged 10 years then bottled at 98 proof, though prior years had seen anywhere from 9- to 14-year-old barrels.
Why were drinking this: Because we may never get a chance to do so again.
Outside of 2020, the annual Birthday Bourbon is one of those releases where people line up overnight and camp out for a bottle which is difficult in Louisville, a city with a fairly new law that made sleeping outside illegal. Last year we just plied everyone in line with coffee, says Jackie Zykan, Old Forester Master Taster.
So basically, outside of this distillery line, these releases are pretty much gone before they officially hit the shelves. You have to know the liquor store owner, admits Zykan. But there are some ways around this and grey/black markets well discuss that below.
Zykan really sums it up well: Flavor-wise, I think this captures the true essence of what Kentucky bourbon is supposed to taste like: sweet on the front, spicy on the back, a little bit dry, oak forward, but balanced and palatable.
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