During the Prohibition era in the United States, the production and sale of alcoholic beverages were banned. However, there was an exception made for medicinal purposes. The Volstead Act of 1920 granted permits to a select few distillers in Kentucky to continue producing and bottling bourbon for medicinal use. One of these distillers was Old Forester, and it continued to be produced as medicinal whiskey on Louisville's renowned Whiskey Row.
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I find the concept of medicinal whiskey during Prohibition fascinating. It is interesting to see how a product that was once enjoyed for leisure and pleasure suddenly became associated with medicine and health.
The idea behind medicinal whiskey was that it could be prescribed by doctors for various ailments. It was believed that certain alcoholic beverages could have therapeutic effects when consumed in moderation. Whiskey, in particular, was often prescribed as a remedy for a range of conditions including anxiety, insomnia, and digestive issues.
Obtaining a prescription for medicinal whiskey was not very difficult during Prohibition. Doctors were allowed to write prescriptions for whiskey, and many did so freely. Some doctors even set up “speakeasies” in their offices where patients could conveniently pick up their prescriptions.
One can only imagine the scenes in these makeshift medical establishments. Patients would arrive with various complaints, seeking relief in the form of a bottle of whiskey. It was a time when people had to resort to such measures to enjoy a drink legally. The irony of the situation is not lost on me.
Old Forester, being one of the lucky distillers with a permit, continued its production during this time. It is worth noting that the bourbon produced for medicinal purposes was not of the same quality as what was available before Prohibition. The production methods were often rushed, and the focus was on quantity rather than the craftsmanship that went into making a fine bourbon.
The medicinal whiskey produced during this era was typically bottled at a higher proof than the pre-Prohibition whiskey. This was done to ensure that it had a longer shelf life and could be stored for a more extended period. The higher alcohol content also contributed to the perception of its medicinal properties.
Although the intention behind medicinal whiskey was to provide relief to patients, it is widely believed that many people obtained prescriptions simply to enjoy a legal drink. The demand for whiskey during Prohibition was incredibly high, and people were willing to go to great lengths to get their hands on it, even if it meant faking an illness or exaggerating their symptoms.
Medicinal whiskey was a unique phenomenon during the Prohibition era. It allowed a select group of distillers, including Old Forester, to continue producing bourbon legally. While it was intended for medicinal use, the reality was that many people sought prescriptions simply to enjoy a legal drink. The concept of medicinal whiskey highlights the ingenuity and resourcefulness of individuals during a time when the enjoyment of alcoholic beverages was heavily restricted.