Old Forester bourbon is made by the Brown-Forman Corporation, a leading American-owned spirits and wine company. However, it was the vision and dedication of Chris Morris, the Master Distiller at Old Forester, that has truly transformed the brand into the highly sought after whiskey it is today.
Chris Morris has been with Brown-Forman for over 40 years and has played an instrumental role in the development of Old Forester's Whiskey Row Series. This series pays homage to the brand's rich history and heritage by recreating the styles of whiskey that were popular during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The Whiskey Row Series includes expressions such as Old Forester 1870 Original Batch, Old Forester 1897 Bottled in Bond, and Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style. Each of these bourbons is meticulously crafted to reflect the flavor profiles and production methods of their respective eras.
One of the key aspects of Old Forester's production process is its unique fermentation method. Old Forester uses a proprietary yeast strain that has been in use for over 150 years. This yeast strain, combined with the brand's traditional sour mash process, contributes to the distinct flavor profile of Old Forester bourbons.
Another factor that sets Old Forester apart is its use of a single barrel aging process. While many bourbons are blended from multiple barrels to achieve consistency, Old Forester Single Barrel is bottled from a single barrel, resulting in a unique flavor profile with each release. This attention to detail and commitment to quality is a testament to Chris Morris's dedication to crafting exceptional whiskies.
In addition to the Whiskey Row Series and Single Barrel releases, Old Forester also offers a range of other expressions, including Old Forester 86 Proof and Old Forester Signature. These bourbons provide a more approachable entry point for those new to the brand, while still maintaining the high quality and craftsmanship that Old Forester is known for.
Old Forester's commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed. The brand has received numerous accolades and awards, including being named the “World's Best Whisky” by Whisky Magazine in 2019 for its Old Forester 1910 Old Fine Whisky.
Personally, I have had the pleasure of enjoying several Old Forester expressions and have been consistently impressed with the depth of flavor and complexity they offer. From the rich caramel and vanilla notes in the Whiskey Row Series to the smooth and balanced profile of the Old Forester Signature, each sip is a testament to the artistry and skill that goes into making Old Forester bourbon.
Old Forester bourbon is made by the Brown-Forman Corporation, with Chris Morris as the driving force behind the brand's success. Through his dedication and expertise, Morris has created a range of exceptional bourbons that pay homage to Old Forester's storied history while pushing the boundaries of flavor and craftsmanship. Whether you are a whiskey connoisseur or new to the world of bourbon, Old Forester offers something for everyone to enjoy.