After tasting all three batches of Old Forester 150th Anniversary Bourbon, I have to say that Batch 2 is my personal favorite. While Batch 1 and Batch 3 were both exceptional in their own right, there was something about Batch 2 that really stood out to me.
The tasting notes provided by Old Forester indicate that Batch 2 should come closest to the Buffalo Trace profile, with flavors of cherries, brown sugar, and wood. And I have to say, they hit the nail on the head with this one.
Upon pouring a glass of Batch 2, I was immediately greeted by a rich, deep amber color. The nose was filled with the aroma of ripe cherries, accompanied by hints of vanilla and caramel. It was incredibly inviting and made me eager to take my first sip.
On the palate, Batch 2 delivered exactly what it promised. The cherries were front and center, mingling with notes of brown sugar and oak. It had a wonderful balance of sweetness and spice, with just a touch of heat on the finish. The mouthfeel was smooth and velvety, coating my palate in a luxurious manner.
What really impressed me about Batch 2 was its complexity. As I continued to sip and savor, I noticed layers of flavors unfolding. The cherries evolved into dark fruits, like plums and blackberries, while the brown sugar transformed into a rich, caramelized sweetness. The wood notes became more pronounced, adding depth and character to the bourbon.
Batch 2 also had a great length to its finish. The flavors lingered on my palate, leaving behind a pleasant aftertaste that made me want to go back for another sip. It was a truly memorable experience.
Now, it’s important to note that taste is subjective, and what I find to be the best batch may not be the same for everyone. Each batch of Old Forester 150th Anniversary Bourbon has its own unique characteristics, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
But for me, Batch 2 really captured the essence of what I love about bourbon. It showcased the classic flavors of cherries, brown sugar, and wood in a beautifully balanced and complex way. It was a bourbon that I could easily sip and enjoy on its own, without any need for mixers or fancy cocktails.
While all three batches of Old Forester 150th Anniversary Bourbon were exceptional, Batch 2 stood out to me as the best. Its profile closely aligned with the Buffalo Trace profile, and it delivered on all fronts in terms of flavor, complexity, and overall drinking experience. If you’re a fan of cherries, brown sugar, and wood, I highly recommend giving Batch 2 a try.