Unlike the standard Old Forester, Bourbon which is a blend of Bourbon from several different years, Old Forester Birthday Bourbon is a vintage-dated bourbon, hand-selected by Master Distiller Chris Morris from one specific day of production. The result is a one-of-a-kind character and flavor that will never be replicated again. As it differs from year to year, below is our review of the 2010 expression of Old Forester Birthday Bourbon, very impressive and distinct Bourbon!
Bourbon: Old Forester Birthday 2010 Release
Distillery: Brown-Forman Distillers, Louisville, Kentucky
Proof: 95 Proof, 47.5% ABV
Color: Light to medium amber with orange highlights
Nose: An herbal fresh Mint/cool eucalyptus predominates accompanied by a secondary nose of vibrant rye.
Taste: Citrus and herbal tones play against a delicious milk chocolate in a light but boldy straightforward flavor. Not overly aggressive, but distinct and light in mouthfeel given the proof. Also hints of toffee, back notes of vanilla.
Finish: “Mint like” coolness with that same milk chocolate. Add to that a tiny bit of Earl Grey tea.
Bourbon review by Tom Fischer of BourbonBlog.com
Marci
This is one of the better Birthday Bourbon years; probably top 3, after 2004, and 2009.
Brian
I found this to be extremely oaky and gripping on the palate. Very harsh tannins that didn’t let up. Overall way too bitter for my tastes. I find very little to like about this lemon of a bourbon.