Old Forester, America's first bottled bourbon, has a unique and fascinating history that dates back to the time of Prohibition. During this tumultuous period in American history, the production and sale of alcoholic beverages were banned, leaving many distilleries to shut down or resort to illegal operations. However, Old Forester managed to navigate through this challenging time and continue to be sold, making it the only bourbon to be continuously available before, during, and after Prohibition.
In 1919, when the 18th Amendment to the United States Constitution was ratified, effectively prohibiting the production, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages, the future looked bleak for many distilleries. However, Old Forester's parent company, Brown-Forman, found a way to adapt to these new circumstances. They were granted one of only ten permits issued by the U.S. government to continue producing whiskey for medicinal purposes.
Under this permit, Old Forester was produced and marketed as a medicinal whiskey. It was prescribed by doctors and sold in pharmacies as a remedy for various ailments. While it may seem strange today to consider whiskey as medicine, this was a common practice during Prohibition. Many people believed in the healing properties of whiskey, and it was often used to treat everything from the common cold to more serious conditions.
I remember hearing stories from my grandparents about the days of Prohibition and the creative ways people found to obtain alcohol. They would talk about “doctor's orders” and how individuals would visit their local physician, complaining of various ailments just to secure a prescription for whiskey. It was a fascinating time of secrecy and ingenuity, where people would go to great lengths to enjoy a drink.
Old Forester's medicinal whiskey was sold in sealed bottles with a prescription label, ensuring it was only used for the intended purposes. However, it is worth noting that some of these bottles may have made their way into the hands of those who sought whiskey for recreational purposes rather than medicinal needs.
Prohibition lasted for thirteen long years, from 1920 to 1933, and during this time, Old Forester managed to keep their doors open and their whiskey flowing. This not only speaks to the resourcefulness of the Brown-Forman company but also to the enduring popularity of Old Forester as a brand. Despite the challenges, they were able to maintain their reputation and continue producing a high-quality product.
When Prohibition finally came to an end in 1933 with the ratification of the 21st Amendment, Old Forester was able to transition back into the legitimate whiskey market seamlessly. The brand had not only survived but had also managed to thrive during this difficult period. It had gained a loyal following, both for its medicinal purposes and its reputation as a well-crafted bourbon.
Old Forester was indeed sold during Prohibition, albeit under the guise of a medicinal whiskey. Its parent company, Brown-Forman, secured one of the rare permits to produce whiskey for medicinal purposes, allowing Old Forester to continue operating throughout this challenging period. This unique chapter in its history further adds to the allure and legacy of Old Forester as America's first bottled bourbon.