Old Forester 1897 Bottled in Bond Bourbon - 100 Proof

Step back into American whiskey history with Old Forester 1897 Bottled in Bond Bourbon, the second craft release in the acclaimed Old Forester Whiskey Row Series. Produced by the historic Brown-Forman Distillery in Louisville, Kentucky, this small-batch expression honours the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897—landmark U.S. federal legislation designed to guarantee absolute quality, authenticity, and spirit purity. Meticulously crafted for bourbon purists, craft cocktail bartenders, and American whiskey collectors, this 100-proof classic offers a genuine taste of late 19th-century Kentucky distilling.

To strictly fulfill historical Bottled-in-Bond standards, Old Forester 1897 is crafted from a single distilling season, distilled at a single distillery, aged for a minimum of four years in a federally bonded warehouse, and bottled at exactly 100 Proof (50% ABV). Built on Old Forester’s signature high-rye mash bill—72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% malted barley—this bourbon undergoes maturation in heavily charred, proprietary American white oak barrels. The high-proof strength amplifies the rich, spicy oak profile, delivering a deep, mouth-coating palate brimming with rich vanilla, toasted oak, sweet caramel, and warm baking spices.

The Bottled-in-Bond Craftsmanship Advantage

Historical Integrity & Bold Flavour: Meeting strict government standards ensures that Old Forester 1897 remains unadulterated, un-chillfiltered, and packed with robust character. The elevated 100-proof bottling strength makes it an incredible standalone sipping bourbon and a commanding base for classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned and Manhattan.

Tasting Notes

• Aroma / Nose: Rich, spicy, and inviting. Deep caramel, sweet vanilla bean, and toasted oak open the bouquet, followed by dried fruit, dark cherry, nutmeg, and subtle floral notes.
• Palate / Flavour: Full-bodied, rich, and warming. Complex layers of sweet vanillin, butterscotch, and dark honey merge effortlessly with bold rye spice, charred oak, toasted almonds, and ripe orchard fruits.
• Finish: Long, warm, and lingering. It finishes with enduring notes of peppered oak, sweet caramel, dark cocoa, and lingering baking spices.

Sip Old Forester 1897 Bottled in Bond Bourbon neat to dissect its deep flavour intensity, serve it over a clear ice sphere, or craft an authentic 1890s-style Old Fashioned.