It’s exciting to see where Bourbon has gone over the past few decades. From a few dozen producers who weathered the downturn to the now hundreds of labels who’ve enjoyed the boom. There’s no shortage of good whiskey to explore. Yet there’s something nostalgic about the classics. Producers who have not only endured, but innovated. Charting the path forward and clearing the way for all others to follow.

Our most recent barrel pick comes from Old Forester, America’s first bottled Bourbon. They are a downright legendary distillery. Started in 1870, they’ve enjoyed over 150 years of continuous production – even through prohibition thanks to the ‘Medicinal Permit’ issued to them by the Federal government.

Today, they’re known for rich whiskies featuring intense flavors built from two key elements. First, their famous Mash Bill (72% Corn, 18% Rye, and 10% Malted Barley) relies on a big dose of rye, lending rich baking spices yet softened by a significant amount of barley. Second, their unique approach to aging with heat-cycled rick-houses. Introducing steam heat during the winter months to mimic seasonal changes in temperature, a process which accelerates the marriage between whiskey & barrel. This all leads to Bourbon with deeper color, more layered notes, and bigger flavor at younger ages.

This barrel was filled on January 31st, 2020 when the world was just learning about COVID-19. It was dumped on April 7th, 2025 at just over 5 years old. Our pick for 2025 registers at a full 136.7*. Pulled from the 4th floor at Warehouse L of Old Forester’s Louisville rick-houses. The nose offers up bands of caramel, fig, brown butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, sweet apples, dried peaches and a touch of mint. This is a big, bold, mouth-coating Bourbon with a huge flavor profile. While it drinks well below it’s proof, there is no mistaking it’s cask strength. We suggest a few drops of water or a large, slow melting cube to open the tightly packed layers of flavor here.