OLD FORESTER 1870 ORIGINAL BATCH — Expert Tasting Profile
Old Forester 1870 Original Batch is the first expression in the Whiskey Row Series, inspired by founder George Garvin Brown's original batching process from 1870. Crafted by blending barrels from three different warehouses, each with unique production dates and maturation profiles, it delivers a smooth, balanced bourbon with vibrant fruit, soft spice, and refined sweetness. Bottled at 90 proof (45% ABV).
Tasting Notes
The nose is bright and inviting, opening with aromas of crisp apple, mandarin orange, and citrus peel layered with honey, vanilla, and delicate honeysuckle. Gentle notes of clove, nutmeg, and toasted oak add warmth and complexity.
On the palate, it is medium-bodied and exceptionally smooth, offering flavors of fresh apple, citrus zest, and honeyed caramel. Layers of shortbread, vanilla, and light toffee develop alongside baking spices including cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg. The oak influence is subtle and well-integrated, creating a refined and approachable profile.
The finish is soft, silky, and well-balanced, lingering with notes of bright fruit, vanilla, gentle oak, and sweet baking spices.
Pairing Suggestions
Old Forester 1870 Original Batch pairs beautifully with a variety of savory and sweet dishes. It complements:
- Smoked pork tenderloin and barbecue chicken
- Grilled burgers and glazed ham
- Roast turkey with herbs
- Mild Cheddar, Gouda, and Gruyère
- Apple pie and peach cobbler
- Bread pudding and vanilla crème brûlée
- Milk chocolate and pecan pralines
Palate Experience ("Plate Taste")
The palate opens with lively orchard fruit and citrus before unfolding into layers of honey, vanilla, caramel, and buttery shortbread. The texture is smooth and rounded, while gentle baking spices and light oak provide structure without overpowering the whiskey's bright, fruit-forward character. The finish remains elegant and approachable, leaving a lasting impression of sweet spice, vanilla, and fresh citrus.
Old Forester 1870 Original Batch is best enjoyed neat to appreciate its delicate balance of fruit and spice. It also performs exceptionally well in classic bourbon cocktails such as an Old Fashioned or Whiskey Sour, where its citrus-forward sweetness and smooth finish shine.
