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Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style Bourbon a Nod to Nation’s Dry Period

oldforester-prohibitionThere was a once dark period in the history of American drinking culture known as Prohibition, during which pretty much all liquor production was stopped. Just 10 distilleries were granted exceptions during this draconian era through special permits to produce so called “medicinal” whiskey. Kentucky’s Old Forester was one of these 10, making it the only bourbon continually distilled by the same family before, during and after Prohibition.

In a nod to this period, the distillery has unveiled Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style, the third bourbon in its Whiskey Row Series. This series, designed to help bourbon drinkers “taste their way through bourbon history,” has thus far included 1897 Bottled in Bond and 1870 Original Batch. This new bottling, a 115 proof offering, is said to be representative of what then company president Owsley Brown I would have batched at the beginning of Prohibition.

“Old Forester is a bourbon with such prominent history. It allows us to look back at a rich timeline that spans across five generations,” said Campbell Brown, Old Forester President and fifth-generation Brown family member, in a prepared statement. “In crafting 1920, we were able to spend time thinking about the legacy of Owsley Brown I and what was an incredibly unique era in our country’s history – Prohibition. 1920 Prohibition Style is our toast to the innovative and enduring spirit of Old Forester.”

The bourbon, which will price around $60 when it debuts next month, is being released in about the same time frame as Old Forester’s highly sought after Birthday Bourbon. Official tasting nots for the 1920 expression are below for your consideration.

Color: Rich, chestnut red.

Aroma: An intense medley of cherry preserves, drippy caramel, dark chocolate, thickened maple syrup and seasoned oak spiciness.

Flavor: Dark caramel coats layers of malt nuttiness and sweet graham cracker all warmed by green peppercorn and coriander spice brightened with a hint of cedar.

Finish: Tart apple crispness gives way to a long smoky finish full of toasted marshmallow, chocolate and graham cracker sweetness.

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