Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style

The aroma signals a higher proof, yet it possesses considerable flavor, effectively clearing the nasal passages. It's reminiscent of chocolate chip cookies generously coated in caramel, with an additional flourish of caramel. The warmth is undeniable; sipping it neat at room temperature necessitates a glass of iced water. A subtle cherry note emerges at the back of the palate. It doesn't quite blow me away. The finish is top-notch. A neat sip, smaller than usual, felt like the second one. Phenomenal. The finish earns a perfect score, revealing cinnamon and perhaps a hint of red licorice. Distinct flavors manifest in different stages. My recommendation is to first appreciate the caramel notes in the nose, then take a slightly smaller than usual sip neat at room temperature (as is customary). While swishing it in your mouth, inhale through your nose, then swallow and exhale through your nose. Both the nose and finish are premium. An ice cube might be added to further explore the taste. I added a tiny ice cube from my water to the last ounce or so of my pour after it had melted. The nose remains fantastic. It's even more approachable now, with perhaps some added charred oak. The caramel sweetness persists. Even with a smaller sip after a sip of water, I'm not discovering anything extraordinary on the palate. The nose remains absolutely fantastic. As I stated before, it's a perfect score, period. It offers a touch of cherry juice atop a caramel and chocolate chip cookie, with a sprinkle of cinnamon. Absolutely prime.

My initial encounter with Old Forester was the 1910, which I thoroughly enjoyed. The 1920 Prohibition Style offers a different profile but is also quite good! This expression leans more towards spice than sweetness. On the nose, I detect cola and caramel mingled with nutmeg, clove, and a touch of wax. There's also a subtle hint of cherry, reminiscent of cherry cola. The palate is considerably warmer and spicier than the nose suggests, featuring cinnamon, nutmeg, and a smoky quality. The sweetness is less pronounced here compared to the aroma. The finish becomes sweeter, presenting a flavor akin to strawberry cake topped with nuts. It boasts significant character and diverse flavors, deviating from typical sweet bourbons. It's spicy, nutty, and sweet – a very positive experience!

While my sense of smell isn't fully recovered post-COVID, my taste buds are functioning well. I can't identify every nuance yet, but I can confirm the finish on this is outstanding! It lingers for nearly 3-4 minutes! I primarily detect nuttiness with a fleeting hint of coffee. Allspice and nuts remain on the backend for an extended, pleasing duration. There's no ethanol burn in the nostrils, and it's quite easy to swallow. Even at a higher proof, this would be an excellent bourbon for sipping over an evening or around a campfire, given the long and satisfying finish that allows for ample time between sips. Cheers!

This high-proof bourbon is deceptively smooth and warrants recognition. Vanilla and caramel are immediately apparent, but it leans towards darker notes than Wikd Turkey Rare Breed, featuring more toasted sugar, cocoa, and charred oak, with subtle undertones of dried fruit and spice. The mouthfeel is rich and silky, and it drinks much lighter than its stated proof, which is precisely its allure. Easy drinking can lead to a prolonged evening if one is not cautious. Bold, well-balanced, and remarkably accessible for its proof, 1920 is a refined spirit that still delivers a powerful experience. It's a go-to for those who appreciate high-proof bourbon without the harshness.

Nose: Very sweet, rich red fruit, some vanilla and oak are also present. Baking spices and tobacco are less prominent. Palate: Baking spices are more pronounced here, primarily cinnamon and coriander. Fruit flavors and vanilla recede, resulting in less sweetness and more spice. Finish: Medium length finish with a solid mouthfeel. Oak and vanilla reappear in the finish, providing a pleasant, rounded experience. Overall, a very solid whisky with moderate complexity. The proof is not overwhelming, and the flavor is quite exceptional. Definitely worth purchasing.

This bourbon is outstanding! The initial taste offers baking spice notes with cinnamon and cloves, followed by a sweeter conclusion of banana and caramel, evoking bananas foster. It's a rich and fascinating bottle, suitable for the fall or winter seasons. It's excellent served neat or exceptionally well in an old fashioned! Adding banana simple syrup, cherry, and cherry bitters while omitting the orange peel creates what is likely my preferred old fashioned to date. It's certainly worth the price, falling between $45 and $75. I can obtain mine for $55.