Old Forester, the First Bottled Bourbon™, was created in 1870 by George Garvin Brown. Born on September 2, 1846, in Munfordville, KY, Brown's journey to becoming a pioneer in the bourbon industry is quite fascinating. After moving to Louisville in 1863 to attend high school, he found himself working as a pharmaceutical salesman. Little did he know that this particular line of work would lead him to create a brand that would revolutionize the bourbon industry.
In those days, bourbon was primarily sold by the barrel, making it difficult for consumers to know the quality and consistency of the product they were purchasing. George Garvin Brown saw an opportunity to change this and improve the experience for bourbon enthusiasts. He believed that by bottling bourbon, he could guarantee its quality and create a consistent product that consumers could trust.
With this vision in mind, George Garvin Brown introduced Old Forester in 1870, becoming the first person to ever sell bourbon exclusively in sealed glass bottles. This groundbreaking innovation not only set a new standard for the bourbon industry but also ensured that consumers could enjoy a consistently high-quality product.
Old Forester quickly gained recognition and popularity among bourbon enthusiasts. Its smooth and rich flavor profile, combined with the assurance of quality provided by its bottled format, made it a favorite among consumers. Over the years, Old Forester has continued to refine its production methods while staying true to its original recipe, making it a beloved and iconic brand in the bourbon world.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of experiencing the rich history and flavors of Old Forester firsthand. Tasting this iconic bourbon takes me back to a time when craftsmanship and attention to detail were paramount. Each sip tells a story of innovation and dedication to creating a superior product.
Old Forester was made in 1870 by George Garvin Brown, who had the foresight to introduce the concept of bottling bourbon and revolutionize the industry. This brand of firsts paved the way for the modern bourbon market, and its rich history and exceptional quality continue to captivate bourbon enthusiasts to this day.