I am an Old Forester guy through and through because their taste profile seems to work well with my palate. So, when the Old Forester Single Barrel 90 Proof hit my area of Georgia, I was extremely excited. These offerings came and went so fast, but fortunately, I was able to get a store pick.
It was much hotter than the 90 proof, and the spice was overwhelming initially, a little too spicy for my taste. As I mentioned, I’m an Old Forester guy, and sadly this has been my second-to-least favorite Old Forester offering after the bottom shelf 80 proof Old Forester. Now, I see why OF chose to discontinue this version and replace it with 100 proof and Barrel Strength versions.
The Review
The nose is good with a friendly, pleasant toffee aroma; sweet and rich smelling.
Spice dominates the palate and does not go away. Old Forester Single Barrel 90 Proof has a little bit of viscosity, as you would expect from something produced by Old Forester. There’s a richness to the taste but monotonous at the same time. Additionally, the heat is so unexpected because it’s only 90 proof. It does get a little smoother the longer you sip. I sense salt and black pepper spice.
The peppery finish lingers with the same spice evident on the palate.
Overall, Old Forester Single Barrel 90 Proof is a very dull offering. It has minimal character or features which stand out. One of the worst things a bourbon can be is indifferent, which describes Old Forester Single Barrel 90 Proof...indifferent.