A little background

Many bourbon fans anticipate the annual release of Old Forester Birthday Bourbon (OFBB). The 2021 OFBB release was crafted from 119 barrels that aged in warehouse G for 12 years. This spirit is released on September 2nd each year in celebration of Old Forester founder, George Garvin Brown. Traditionally, OFBB has ranged in age from 9 to 14 years with varying proofs from 90 to 105. MSRP is approximately $129.99.

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)

Color

Amber

Nose

The nose is sweet and spicy. Vanilla, oak spice, brown sugar, and dark fruit are the most prominent notes.

Palate

The first sip has a medium viscosity. Spice overwhelms the palate. Once the spice begins to fade, sweet fruit, vanilla, and oak notes begin to appear. The second sip elicits a Pavlovian response. Dark fruit and spice are the most prominent notes. The third sip has a faint bitterness. Oak, spice, and a slight acidity lingers on the palate.

Finish

The finish is medium to long. Notes of bitter oak, dark fruit, and spice waft in effervescence. As the finish lingers, notes of dark chocolate, clove, and allspice begin to appear.

In closing

The 2021 Old Forester Birthday Bourbon is bold, spicy, and fruit forward. This spirit seems to drink higher than 104 proof due to overwhelming spice. This bourbon may benefit from some airtime. With time, the spirit may seem more balanced. Bourbon drinkers who enjoy spice and dark fruit will be fans of this release. Overall, the 2021 OFBB is a nice pour and would be a perfect addition to any bar.

NOTE: The sample used for this review was provided at no cost courtesy of Old Forester. We thank them for the sample and for allowing us to review it with no strings attached.