Old Forester Single Barrel Bourbon: A Select Barrel Showcase Now Available in the USA

For bourbon enthusiasts seeking a unique expression from one of Kentucky’s most historic distilleries, Old Forester Single Barrel Bourbon presents an enticing opportunity. Distinct from the brand’s core range, this offering highlights the individuality inherent in each carefully selected barrel. Here’s what you need to know about finding and appreciating this special release.

Currently Available For Sale (USA):

• Where to Buy: Old Forester Single Barrel Bourbon is exclusively available at select physical retail locations across the United States. You cannot purchase it directly from the Old Forester distillery website or large online liquor marketplaces that ship nationally.

• Finding It: Your best bet is to visit well-stocked, independent liquor stores known for carrying premium and allocated bourbons. Check stores in major metropolitan areas and established bourbon markets. Building relationships with local retailers and inquiring about upcoming single barrel selections is often key.

• Online Options (Limited): Occasionally, specific retailers who have selected a barrel might list their particular pick for sale on their own website, potentially offering in-state shipping. However, widespread national online availability is not typical for this product. Always verify the seller’s legitimacy and shipping policies.

Answering the “People Also Ask” (Google):

1. “How much is Old Forester Single Barrel Bourbon?”

   • Answer: Expect a price range between $80 and $100 USD per 750ml bottle. Pricing can vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and state taxes.

2. “What proof is Old Forester Single Barrel?”

   • Answer: Old Forester Single Barrel Bourbon is bottled at 90 proof (45% ABV). This proof point is chosen to balance robust flavor with approachability.

3. “Is Old Forester Single Barrel hard to find?”

   • Answer: Yes, it can be challenging to find. Its availability is limited because it’s released as individual barrel selections sold only through specific retail partners. It’s not part of the widespread, continuously distributed core lineup like Old Forester 86 Proof or 100 Proof. Scarcity varies by region and retailer.

4. “What is special about Old Forester Single Barrel?”

   • Answer: Several factors make it special:

     • Single Barrel Origin: Each bottle comes from one specific barrel, showcasing unique nuances of flavor and character not found in batched products.

     • Barrel Selection: Barrels are hand-selected by the Old Forester team or sometimes in collaboration with the retailer, often chosen for exceptional qualities.

     • Craft Presentation: It’s bottled non-chill filtered (preserving more mouthfeel and flavor compounds) and at natural color (no caramel coloring added), emphasizing the pure, unadulterated character of the whiskey.

     • Distinct Profile: While sharing the Old Forester DNA, each single barrel offers a unique interpretation – some might be fruitier, spicier, oakier, or more balanced than others.

5. “How does Old Forester Single Barrel compare to 1920?”

   • Answer: They are very different expressions:

   • Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style:

     • Batched product (consistent profile).

     • Bottled at 115 proof (significantly higher proof/hotter).

     • Features rich, dark fruit, chocolate, cherry, and oak notes characteristic of the “Brown-Forman heat cycle”.

     • Generally more widely available.

   • Old Forester Single Barrel:

     • Single Barrel (unique, variable profile).

     • Bottled at 90 proof (more approachable for some).

     • Emphasizes variation and specific barrel character (e.g., honey, baking spice, citrus, floral notes alongside classic oak).

     • Non-chill filtered, natural color.

     • Limited availability.

   • Summary: 1920 offers a powerful, consistent, batched experience. Single Barrel offers a unique, potentially more nuanced, and craft-focused experience from one specific barrel at a lower proof point.

Tasting Profile (Based on Common Characteristics):

• Aroma: Often features inviting notes of honeyed oak, ripe orchard fruits (apple, pear), vanilla bean, toasted nuts, baking spices (cinnamon, nutmeg), and sometimes floral or citrus undertones.

• Palate: Expect a balanced and approachable yet flavorful experience. Typical notes include brown sugar, caramel apples, creamy vanilla, baking spices (especially cinnamon), oak char, and dried fruits. The mouthfeel is often smooth and slightly viscous, enhanced by being non-chill filtered.

• Finish: Moderately long and warming, leaving impressions of oak spice, lingering sweetness, and gentle pepper.

Conclusion

Old Forester Single Barrel Bourbon represents a compelling step into the world of unique, hand-selected expressions from a legendary distillery. Its allure lies in its singularity – each bottle captures the distinct personality of one exceptional barrel, presented thoughtfully without chill filtration or added coloring at a very sippable 90 proof. While its limited availability through select retailers means finding a bottle requires some effort and luck, the reward is a genuinely individual bourbon experience. For those seeking to explore the depth and variation within the Old Forester portfolio beyond their excellent core range, hunting down a Single Barrel selection is a pursuit well worth the endeavor. Remember to check your local premium retailers – your unique bottle of Old Forester history might be waiting.