Old Forester President’s Choice Marks a Milestone
The coveted Old Forester President’s Choice has long been the whispered secret among whiskey insiders—a rare gem previously reserved for lucky visitors to the Old Forester Distillery in Louisville. But for the first time, the distillery has cracked the vault, releasing both President’s Choice Bourbon and the debut President’s Choice Rye to select retailers nationwide.
First introduced in 1964 by former Old Forester president George Garvin Brown II as a private barrel program, the President’s Choice name has always symbolized exclusivity, refinement, and a deep respect for barrel selection. Master Taster Melissa Rift and Assistant Master Distiller Caleb Trigo have now expanded that legacy, curating a limited number of barrels that represent the very best of Old Forester’s aging inventory.
Old Forester President’s Choice Bourbon
The Old Forester President’s Choice Bourbon remains true to its lineage, aged between seven to nine years and bottled at barrel proof, typically ranging from 110 to 125. Pulled from hand-picked barrels stored deep within Old Forester’s historic brick warehouses, this bourbon is a masterclass in balance and boldness.
On the nose, it opens with deeply charred oak, toasted brown sugar, and a hint of dark cherry. The palate is rich and evolving—waves of caramelized banana, black tea, and roasted pecans play against leather and tobacco. There’s an oily depth that lingers beautifully, revealing spice-laced undertones with every sip. The finish is warming and long, with a slow fade of cinnamon bark and cocoa nibs that make each pour feel ceremonial.
Caleb Trigo notes, “Every barrel selected for President’s Choice tells a story.” And with this bourbon, the story is one of complexity, patience, and reverence for traditional craftsmanship.
Old Forester President’s Choice Rye
The introduction of the Old Forester President’s Choice Rye marks a turning point for the brand’s single barrel offerings. While Old Forester’s standard rye is already beloved for its punch and character, this new expression elevates the category with a richness and intensity previously unseen in the lineup.
Like its bourbon counterpart, the rye is aged between seven and nine years and bottled at barrel proof. However, the rye barrels selected display a dramatically different flavor profile—one that bridges tradition and bold innovation. On the nose, expect spearmint and sandalwood, backed by subtle notes of clove and citrus peel. The sip delivers a layered experience: cracked black pepper, honeyed fig, fresh-baked rye bread, and charred orange zest. There’s a spicy crescendo that builds toward a smoky, herbal finish, leaving an impression that’s both assertive and sophisticated.
Master Taster Melissa Rift shares, “Most consumers have never seen President’s Choice, let alone tasted it. We’re honored to bring it to a wider audience.” With the rye expression, that audience now gets a new lens through which to experience Old Forester’s top-tier quality.
Each barrel is chosen not simply for quality, but for character—those intangible nuances that elevate a good whiskey into something unforgettable. It’s no surprise that both expressions carry a $225 MSRP, a fair value given the craftsmanship, history, and intensity housed in every bottle.
Whether you’re savoring the deep elegance of the bourbon or diving into the layered spice of the rye, these are whiskies built for meaningful moments, rich conversation, and long reflection.
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