Old Forester 1910 Old Fine Whisky

Description

Aroma

The initial nose throws a curveball compared to typical bourbon profiles.  Instead of the usual emphasis on vanilla and caramel, Old Forester 1910 leads with a surprising note of soft oak.  Imagine inhaling the scent of freshly opened wooden furniture – it’s dry, slightly sweet, and hints at the whiskey’s time spent maturing in those special secondary casks. This oak influence sets the stage for a more complex experience.

Following the oak, familiar bourbon notes emerge, but with a twist. A hint of caramel sweetness is present, but it’s subtle and doesn’t overpower the oak. Imagine the faint aroma of vanilla wafers, adding a touch of creamy sweetness. However, this sweetness takes a backseat to the surprise element – a kick of spice.  Imagine a whisper of white pepper tingling in your nose, followed by a gentle warmth from ginger. These unexpected spices are a hallmark of the secondary barrel maturation and add an intriguing layer of complexity to the aroma.

Palate

The first sip confirms the boldness promised by the aroma. The soft oak character translates beautifully onto the palate, offering a dry and slightly tannic texture. Don’t be afraid, though – this tannic quality isn’t harshness; it’s a sign of the whiskey’s unique maturation and adds depth to the experience.

As the oak subsides, a wave of spice washes over your tongue. This isn’t the overpowering spice of a rye whiskey, but a delightful interplay of flavors.  Imagine a tingle of white pepper on your tongue, followed by a gentle warmth from the ginger detected in the aroma. These spicy notes are what truly set Old Forester 1910 apart. They add complexity and intrigue, keeping the flavor profile interesting.

Midpalate

As the whiskey lingers on your tongue, subtler elements emerge. A hint of nutmeg might appear, adding a touch of warmth and baking spice character. This is followed by a surprising note of peach. Imagine a fleeting sweetness of ripe peaches that cuts through the spice and oak, adding a touch of unexpected refreshment. This interplay between sweet, spicy, and oaky notes is what makes Old Forester 1910 so captivating.

Finish

The finish of Old Forester 1910 is long and warming, ensuring a satisfying conclusion. The oak character remains noticeable, but it’s balanced by the lingering spice. Imagine a touch of cayenne pepper adding a pleasant warmth at the back of your throat. This isn’t an overpowering heat, but a gentle reminder of the spicier side of the whiskey. The peach sweetness might also make a final appearance, leaving a hint of fruitiness on your tongue.