Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style is a Kentucky straight bourbon bottled at 115 proof (57.5% ABV). Its cherry, chocolate, maple and spice profile makes it a candidate for drinkers who enjoy a full-bodied bourbon. For UK buyers, the main decisions are whether that strength suits your taste and whether the delivered price compares well with other high-proof bottles.
In This Old Forester 1920 Review
History and Production
The Old Forester brand made history in 1870 as America’s first bottled bourbon, introducing sealed bottles to prevent tampering. During Prohibition, Spirits Network reports that the distillery held one of only six Kentucky permits for producing medicinal whiskey.
Prohibition Era Significance
Old Forester describes the 115-proof bottling as a tribute to the rich bourbon style of the Prohibition era. It is a modern release in the Whiskey Row range, rather than whiskey distilled in 1920.
Production Details
The production process, as detailed by Breaking Bourbon, maintains consistency through:
- Standard Old Forester mash bill
- Traditional yeast strain
- Copper column still distillation
- New charred American white oak barrels
- Temperature-controlled aging warehouses
Barrel Selection Process
The Brown-Forman Cooperage supplies all barrels for Old Forester 1920. This practice ensures quality control throughout production. The barrels contribute over half of the bourbon’s flavor and all of its color, making barrel selection crucial for the final product.
Tasting Profile
Nose
The aroma presents layers of:
- Cherry preserves
- Dark chocolate
- Maple syrup
- Oak notes
- Brown sugar
- Subtle spearmint
- Banana undertones
- Cedar wood
- Warm cinnamon
Taste
Film Whiskey’s review notes these flavors:
- Rich caramel
- Graham cracker sweetness
- Green peppercorn
- Dark chocolate
- Yellow cake
- Cherry notes
- Malt nuttiness
- Simple syrup sweetness
- Barrel char characteristics
Finish
Bourbon Obsessed describes a lengthy finish featuring:
- Toasted marshmallow
- Dark chocolate
- Graham cracker sweetness
- Black pepper
- Pleasant char
- Warming sensation
- Tart apple crispness
- Lingering smoky notes
- Oak tannins
Serving Suggestions
Neat
The high proof makes this bourbon perfect for neat sipping, especially after resting in the glass for 5-10 minutes. This rest period allows the alcohol to open up, revealing deeper flavors.
On the Rocks
Adding ice can help tame the high proof while maintaining the rich flavor profile. The cold temperature brings out different aspects of the whiskey, particularly the fruity and sweet notes.
In Cocktails
The high proof and rich flavor profile make this bourbon excellent for:
- Old Fashioned cocktails
- Manhattan variations
- Whiskey sours
- Boulevardiers
- Bold highballs
Recognition
The bourbon has earned significant praise, including:
- Double Gold Medal at the 2020 San Francisco World Spirits Competition
- Gold Medal at the 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition
- Judge’s Choice Award at the 2018 American Whiskey Convention
- 93 points at the 2017 Ultimate Spirits Challenge
- Silver Medal at the 2017 International Whisky Competition
Value and Availability
Compare current UK retailer listings for the exact 1920 Prohibition Style expression. Check bottle size, 57.5% ABV, stock status and delivery charges. A US shelf price is not a reliable guide to the final UK cost.
Market Position
Buy for its flavour and strength rather than an expectation of investment returns. If you normally prefer 40–43% bourbon, try a sample or bar measure before buying a full bottle.
Comparative Analysis
When compared to similar high-proof options, The Whiskey Shelf’s comparison notes:
vs. Knob Creek Single Barrel
- Knob Creek shows darker, denser characteristics with prominent brown sugar
- Old Forester 1920 presents brighter with honey and fruit notes
- Both maintain high proof but express different flavor profiles
vs. Stagg Jr.
- Stagg Jr. offers more oak influence and overall intensity
- Old Forester 1920 provides more balanced sweetness
- Both appeal to high-proof bourbon enthusiasts
vs. Wilderness Trail
Wilderness Trail barrel proof bourbons share similar dry fruit characteristics but differ in:
- Age statement
- Grain composition
- Production methods
Storage and Serving Recommendations
Storage
- Keep bottle upright to protect the cork
- Store in a cool, dark place
- Avoid direct sunlight
- Maintain consistent temperature
Optimal Serving
- Serve at room temperature
- Allow 5-10 minutes rest after pouring
- Consider adding a few drops of water to open up flavors
- Use a Glencairn glass or similar whiskey glass for best results
Old Forester 1920 Review Final Assessment
Old Forester 1920 delivers consistent quality and historical significance at a fair price point. It serves well neat, on ice, or in cocktails, making it versatile for different drinking preferences. The high proof and rich flavor profile make it particularly appealing for those who enjoy full-bodied bourbon expressions.
According to Bourbonr’s review, while some might hesitate at first due to the high proof, the bourbon often exceeds expectations with its depth and character. The balanced combination of sweetness, spice, and oak creates an experience that works well for both seasoned bourbon enthusiasts and those exploring higher-proof spirits.
The consistent availability, historical connection, and quality make this bourbon a valuable addition to any whiskey collection. Its performance in competitions and positive reviews across multiple sources confirm its position as a standout in the premium bourbon category.
Old Forester 1920: buying questions
Who is it best for?
The strongest reasons to choose it are the rich, spicy profile and enough strength to remain noticeable in an Old Fashioned. The main trade-offs are alcohol intensity and the premium over everyday mixing bourbon. Compare it with the bottles in our UK whisky buying guide under £100, checking live prices rather than assuming every bottle is always below that limit.
What does 115 proof mean?
On the US proof scale, 115 proof equals 57.5% alcohol by volume. Use the ABV on the UK retailer listing to compare strength with other whiskies.
How should I start drinking it?
Try a small pour, then add water gradually if you want to soften the intensity. Ice is another option; choose the dilution that suits you rather than treating neat drinking as a requirement.
