2021 Old Forester 117 Series “High Angels’ Share” | Batch 001 | 110.0°

 


 

Nose: A slight spice in the front intertwined with a rich, brown-sugar sweetness in the back.  The spice continues as one sniffs a second round – leading to a subtle warmth in the nostril.

 

Palate:  An upfront sweetness with a slight hint of blackberry notes leading to a mid-palate depth that exceeds what I thought it would be.  A slight rose-petal-like thought comes to my mind, not really sure – maybe a sense of elegance combined with a refineness.  It possesses a lovely finish that goes longer than one may expect.  As one sips a second round, the warmth and sweetness build a little more and gives you a feeling of the Kentucky hug – my chest feels that pleasant warmth. The last sips offer a slight Thai chili pepper note to finish the journey.  This expression seems to demand a classiness and grace that reminds me of a refined gal in a maroon-colored dress elevated with high heels.  When you look at her, she is sexy, elegant, classy, modest, but sassy all in one.  

 

Verdict:  This expression is a milestone as it is the first Old Forester release to honor a woman's master distillery signature and name -  Jackie Zykan.  The color of it is what people would epiphanies what bourbon ought to be – a golden sunset hue with glimmers of red shades in the backdrop.  I did not know what to expect of this spirit, fearing it to be a gimmick, which would be a shame if that were the case to be representing our better half.  An excellent item that brings you back more, many more pours to come – worth the eight hours of waiting.    

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