As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that the Old Forester 117 Series Bottled in Bond is a no age statement whiskey. This means that the exact age of the bourbon is not disclosed on the label. However, we can make an educated guess based on the term “Bottled in Bond.”
The term “Bottled in Bond” has specific requirements set by the U.S. government. To be labeled as such, a whiskey must meet certain criteria, including being distilled by one distiller at one distillery during one distillation season, and aged in a federally bonded warehouse for at least four years. It must also be bottled at 100 proof (50% alcohol by volume).
Given these requirements, it is safe to assume that the Old Forester 117 Series Bottled in Bond bourbon has been aged for at least four years. However, it's important to note that the age statement does not necessarily indicate the exact age of the whiskey. It is possible that the bourbon has been aged for longer than four years, but the distillery has chosen not to disclose the specific age.
Based on my experience and knowledge of the industry, I would estimate that this bourbon is likely around 9 years old. This estimation is based on the assumption that the bourbon has been aging in barrels since being distilled and has not been stored in a steel tank during that time. However, it's important to remember that this is just an estimate and may not be accurate.
Ultimately, the age statement for Old Forester 117 Series Bottled in Bond is not explicitly stated, but through understanding the regulations and requirements of being labeled as “Bottled in Bond,” we can make an educated guess about the age of the whiskey.