Step back in time and witness the art of bourbon-making at its finest at Old Forester Distillery. Join us on a journey through history as we explore the modern craft behind one of America’s oldest distilleries. From the rich aromas to the smooth textures, get ready to experience bourbon like never before. So grab a glass, sit back, and let us take you on a tasteful adventure through time at Old Forester Distillery.
History of Old Forester Distillery
The history of Old Forester Distillery dates back to 1870 when George Garvin Brown, a young pharmaceutical salesman, had a vision to create high-quality bourbon that could be enjoyed straight out of the bottle. At the time, most bourbons were sold by the barrel and were often diluted or tampered with before reaching consumers. Brown saw an opportunity to change this and revolutionize the way bourbon was produced and sold.
In 1870, Brown partnered with his half-brother J.T.S. Brown and opened the doors to what would become known as Old Forester Distillery. It was named after Dr. William Forrester, a prominent local physician who had been a loyal customer of Brown’s pharmaceutical company. The iconic brand name “Old Forester” was chosen as a tribute to Dr. Forrester’s legacy.
The distillery quickly gained popularity for its unique approach to bourbon-making – using only high-quality ingredients and aging the whiskey in new charred oak barrels for consistency and flavor development. This set Old Forester apart from other distilleries at the time and solidified its reputation as a pioneer in the industry.
However, like many businesses during that era, Old Forester faced challenges such as Prohibition in 1920 which banned the production and sale of alcohol in the United States. The distillery was forced to shut down its operations but managed to survive by selling medicinal whiskey under government license.
After Prohibition ended in 1933, Old Forester resumed full-scale production and continued its tradition of producing exceptional bourbon. Over time, it changed ownership several times but remained true to its original recipe and commitment to quality.
In 1946, Brown-Forman Corporation acquired Old Forester Distillery along with other popular brands such as Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey. Today, over 150 years later, Brown-Forman is still family-owned and continues to operate Old Forester Distillery as the only bourbon brand to be continuously produced and marketed by the same company before, during, and after Prohibition.
In 2018, Old Forester Distillery made history again when it opened its state-of-the-art facility in downtown Louisville, Kentucky. The new distillery not only serves as a production site but also offers visitors an immersive experience through tours, tastings, and educational exhibits on the history of bourbon-making.
From its humble beginnings in 1870 to its current status as one of the most iconic bourbon brands, Old Forester Distillery has truly stood the test of time. Its commitment to quality and innovation has cemented its place in history and continues to drive its success today.
Distillery Tour Experience
The Distillery Tour Experience at Old Forester Distillery is a one-of-a-kind journey through the rich history and modern craft of this iconic brand. Located in the heart of downtown Louisville, Kentucky, this distillery offers visitors an immersive experience that showcases the traditions and techniques used to create their renowned bourbon.
Upon arriving at the distillery, guests are greeted by knowledgeable and friendly tour guides who walk them through the process of making Old Forester’s signature bourbon. Starting with a visit to the grain room, visitors learn about the importance of locally-sourced corn, rye, and barley in creating the distinct flavor profile of their bourbon. From there, they are taken to see the massive copper stills where fermentation takes place, followed by a trip to view the barrel aging warehouse where barrels sit for several years before being bottled.
One highlight of the tour is getting to witness firsthand how Old Forester’s bourbon is hand-bottled and labeled. In operation since 1870, this distillery has maintained its commitment to quality craftsmanship throughout its long history. Guests can even take home a personalized bottle with their own label as a unique souvenir from their visit.
In addition to learning about the production process, visitors also have the opportunity to explore Old Forester’s heritage and legacy. A display room featuring vintage bottles and artifacts allows guests to step back in time and see how this brand has evolved over more than 150 years. The tour also includes access to previously off-limit areas such as Master Taster Jackie Zykan’s private lab where she creates new blends and experiments with different flavors.
No tour would be complete without a tasting, and Old Forester does not disappoint in this regard. Visitors get to sample several expressions of their award-winning bourbon while learning about each one’s unique characteristics from expert guides. This sensory experience gives guests a deeper understanding and appreciation for what makes Old Forester’s bourbon stand out among others.
The Distillery Tour Experience at Old Forester is a must-do for any bourbon enthusiast or anyone looking to learn more about the history and craft of this iconic brand. With its informative guides, hands-on activities, and delicious tastings, it’s an experience that will leave visitors with a newfound love and appreciation for Old Forester bourbon.
Behind the Scenes: The Craft of Bourbon Making
Bourbon, a quintessential American spirit, has a rich history and a fascinating production process. At Old Forester Distillery, located in the heart of bourbon country in Louisville, Kentucky, this traditional craft is still being practiced with modern techniques. In this section, we will take you behind the scenes to explore the intricate art of bourbon making.
The first step in crafting quality bourbon is sourcing the right ingredients. At Old Forester Distillery, only locally grown corn and rye are used in their mash bill, along with malted barley. These grains are carefully selected for their unique flavors and characteristics that contribute to the distinct taste of Old Forester bourbon.
Next comes the milling process where the grains are ground into a fine powder called grist. This allows for better extraction of sugars during mashing. The grist is then mixed with water to create what is known as “mash.” This mixture is heated and cooled multiple times to convert starches into fermentable sugars.
Once fermentation occurs and alcohol is produced, it’s time for distillation – a crucial step in creating high-quality bourbon. At Old Forester Distillery, they use two copper pot stills to distill their bourbon twice. The first distillation separates out impurities while the second concentrates the alcohol content before being aged in barrels.
Speaking of barrels, another key element in bourbon making is barrel selection and preparation. All barrels used at Old Forester Distillery are made from 100% American white oak and charred on the inside which gives bourbon its signature color and flavor profile.
After filling these charred barrels with new-make spirits (unaged whiskey), they are then placed inside rickhouses – tall warehouses stacked with rows upon rows of barrels – to mature for several years until they reach their desired flavor profile.
But that’s not all – there’s one more important step that sets Old Forester bourbon apart from others – the hand-selection process. Master distillers and tasters carefully sample each barrel to determine its unique flavor profile and decide which barrels will be blended together to create a consistent and balanced batch of bourbon.
Crafting quality bourbon is a delicate balance of art, science, and tradition. At Old Forester Distillery, every step of the process is meticulously executed by skilled craftsmen to produce their award-winning bourbon. From sourcing the finest ingredients to selecting and blending barrels, this behind-the-scenes look at the craft of bourbon making showcases the dedication and passion that goes into every bottle of Old Forester bourbon.
Tasting Room Experience and Recommended Drinks
The tasting room at Old Forester Distillery is a must-visit for anyone interested in experiencing the full range of flavors and aromas that this historic distillery has to offer. The atmosphere is elegant yet welcoming, with exposed brick walls and wooden barrels lining the space. As soon as you step inside, you are transported back in time to when Old Forester was first established in 1870.
Upon arrival, guests are greeted by knowledgeable staff who guide them through a curated tasting experience. The tastings include a variety of Old Forester’s signature whiskeys, including their classic Old Forester Bourbon and more unique offerings such as their Single Barrel and Statesman releases. Each whiskey has its own distinct flavor profile, giving visitors the opportunity to explore and compare different expressions.
In addition to the whiskeys, guests can also sample some of Old Forester’s other spirits like their award-winning rye whiskey or their limited-edition Birthday Bourbon. These spirits are all carefully crafted using traditional methods passed down through generations of master distillers.
One drink that comes highly recommended by both staff and visitors is the Mint Julep, made with Old Forester Mint Julep Syrup. This refreshing cocktail is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day while taking in the sights and sounds of Louisville’s Whiskey Row.
For those looking for something non-alcoholic, there are also mocktail options available made with fresh juices and botanicals from local farms. These non-alcoholic drinks provide a great alternative for designated drivers or anyone looking for a lighter option.
The tasting room also offers small bites such as charcuterie boards and cheese plates that pair perfectly with the various whiskeys on offer. Guests can take their time savoring each sip while learning about the history and production process of each spirit.
The tasting room experience at Old Forester Distillery provides an immersive journey into the world of bourbon and whiskey. Whether you are a novice or a connoisseur, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this modern craft distillery. So come and raise a glass to the rich history and exceptional flavors of Old Forester.
Unique Features at Old Forester Distillery
At the Old Forester Distillery, visitors can expect an experience like no other. This historic distillery, located in Louisville, Kentucky, offers a unique blend of old-fashioned charm and modern innovation. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be transported back in time to the 1800s with its rustic atmosphere and traditional bourbon-making techniques.
One of the most notable features at Old Forester Distillery is its state-of-the-art fermentation room. Here, you can witness the process of turning grain into mash and then into bourbon through large copper stills and wooden fermenters. These methods have been used since the distillery’s founding in 1870 and give Old Forester bourbon its distinct flavor profile.
In addition to its traditional production methods, Old Forester Distillery also boasts modern technology that helps create a consistent and high-quality product. The on-site laboratory uses advanced equipment to monitor every stage of production to ensure that each batch meets their strict standards.
But what truly sets this distillery apart are its unique tasting experiences. Visitors can choose from various tours that offer a behind-the-scenes look at how their favorite bottle of bourbon is made. The Classic Tour takes guests on a journey through history as they explore the original barrel warehouse and sample two different bourbons.
For those looking for something more hands-on, the Cooperage Experience allows guests to participate in crafting their own unique barrel head while learning about barrel making from skilled coopers. And for true connoisseurs, the Speakeasy Tour offers an exclusive VIP experience with a guided tasting of rare or limited-edition bourbons.
But it’s not just about bourbon at Old Forester Distillery – they also offer a unique cocktail experience at their bar called “The Campbell Club.” This upscale lounge pays homage to George Garvin Brown’s partner J.T.S Brown by serving classic cocktails made with Old Forester bourbon alongside modern twists created by award-winning mixologists.
And let’s not forget about the gift shop, where visitors can purchase exclusive Old Forester merchandise and limited-edition bourbons that are only available at the distillery. It’s the perfect way to bring home a piece of this one-of-a-kind experience.
Old Forester Distillery truly stands out with its blend of traditional methods and modern technology. Along with its educational tours and unique tasting experiences, it offers something for everyone to enjoy. So whether you’re a bourbon enthusiast or simply looking for an unforgettable experience, be sure to visit Old Forester Distillery – where tradition meets innovation.
Why Old Forester is a Must-Visit on the Bourbon Trail
It is clear that Old Forester Distillery is a must-visit destination on the Bourbon Trail for any bourbon lover or craft spirit enthusiast. This historic distillery has been producing high-quality bourbon for over 150 years and continues to innovate and push the boundaries of traditional whiskey-making.
One of the main reasons why Old Forester stands out among other distilleries on the Bourbon Trail is its commitment to crafting every aspect of their bourbon in-house. From growing their own grains to hand-selecting barrels and bottling, Old Forester ensures quality control at every step of the process. This dedication to craftsmanship results in exceptional bourbons that have stood the test of time.
Visiting Old Forester also offers a unique opportunity to experience a blend of tradition and modernity. The distillery’s location in downtown Louisville provides easy access for tourists, while still maintaining its historical charm with original brick walls and copper pot stills from the 1800s. On top of that, visitors can witness first-hand how technology has improved their production processes, making it both educational and entertaining.
Furthermore, no visit to Old Forester would be complete without tasting one (or more) of their award-winning bourbons. With options ranging from classic expressions like their flagship “Old Forester Signature” to limited edition releases like “Birthday Bourbon,” there’s something for everyone’s palate. And if you’re looking for an exclusive taste, consider joining one of their private tasting experiences led by expert guides who will walk you through each sip and share insider knowledge about this iconic brand.
Last but not least, visiting Old Forester allows you to become part of history as you step into one of Kentucky’s oldest operating distilleries. You’ll learn about its rich heritage and legacy while getting a glimpse into what makes this brand so special – passionate people dedicated to crafting the best bourbon in the world.
Old Forester Distillery is a must-visit on the Bourbon Trail for its exceptional bourbon, unique blend of tradition and modernity, and historical significance. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey connoisseur or just starting your journey into the world of craft spirits, a visit to this iconic distillery is sure to leave a lasting impression. So next time you find yourself in Louisville, be sure to put Old Forester on your list – it’s an experience you won’t want to miss.