Old Forester 86 Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky

Product Description

Old Forester 86 Proof: America's First Bottled Bourbon, Still Going Since 1870

Old Forester 86 Proof is the original, the bottle that started it all. George Garvin Brown created Old Forester in 1870 and revolutionized the industry by being the first to sell bourbon in sealed glass bottles, which guaranteed consumers a consistent product at a time when whiskey was sold by the barrel and often adulterated. Five generations and more than 150 years later, it is still made by the family that founded it. Old Forester is the only bourbon continuously distilled and marketed by its founding family before, during, and after Prohibition, thanks to a government license that let Brown-Forman keep producing it for medicinal purposes.

The 86 Proof is the everyday expression of that heritage. It delivers a genuine bourbon experience with rich, full flavor and a smooth character, and it's priced to be a go-to bottle for sipping, mixing, and sharing. It has also collected recognition over the years, including a Silver Medal at the 2016 Whiskies of the World Awards and a 95-point rating at the 2017 Ultimate Spirits Challenge.

How Old Forester 86 Proof Is Made

Old Forester uses a traditional mash bill of 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% malted barley, which is richer in rye than many bourbons and gives it brightness and a little spice. It's aged in new charred American oak barrels in heat-cycled warehouses, and as a straight bourbon it is at least four years old. It's bottled at 86 proof (43% ABV), a comfortable strength that works neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Bright notes of citrus fruit, tropical fruit, and delicate florals, with pound cake sweetness, subtle clove spice, and lightly toasted oak.

Palate: Citrus zest and ripe pear lead the flavor, supported by fresh mint and hints of clove spice.

Finish: Fresh spearmint carries through with clove spice and warm toasted oak.

Food Pairings

The citrus, mint, and clove character of Old Forester 86 pairs well with smoked pulled pork, grilled chicken, and barbecue. It also works with pecan pie, apple desserts, and aged cheddar. For a simple match, try it with salted nuts or a mint chocolate square.

Serving Suggestions

Old Forester 86 Proof is ideal for sipping neat, on the rocks, or with a splash of water. It's also a go-to bourbon for classic cocktails, since the proof is high enough to hold up without overwhelming the other ingredients. The Old Fashioned is the natural first choice, followed by a Mint Julep (Old Forester is the official bourbon of the Kentucky Derby's julep), a Whiskey Sour, or a Manhattan.

Frequently Asked Questions

What proof is Old Forester 86? 86 proof (43% ABV).

What is the mash bill? 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% malted barley.

How old is it? It has no age statement, but as a straight bourbon it is at least four years old.

What's the difference between the 86 and the 100 Proof? The 100 Proof, sometimes sold as Old Forester Signature, is bottled at a higher strength and has a bolder, richer profile. The 86 is lighter, brighter, and softer.

Why is it called America's first bottled bourbon? In 1870, George Garvin Brown became the first to sell bourbon exclusively in sealed glass bottles.

Is it good for cocktails? Yes, it's a favorite for the Old Fashioned, Mint Julep, and other classics.

Where is it made? By Old Forester in Louisville, Kentucky.

Explore More

Want a stronger pour? Try the Old Forester 100 Proof Bourbon, or explore the Whiskey Row Series with the Old Forester 1870 Original Batch and the bold Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style. Browse our full Bourbon collection for more Kentucky bourbons.

The Quality Liquor Store Guarantee

At Quality Liquor Store, we guarantee the authenticity and quality of every bottle we sell. All of our products are sourced directly from authorized distributors, and every order is carefully packaged to arrive safely at your door. Shop with confidence knowing your bourbon is in good hands.

"Double Gold Medal." 
— 2013 San Francisco World Spirits Competition

"95 Points Extraordinary; Ultimate Recommendation;"
— 2015 Ultimate Spirits Challenge