Old Forester 100 Proof Showdown – Signature vs Store Pick vs 1897 Bottled in Bond
Watch the full episode here:
What happens when you take three 100-proof Old Forester bourbons, put them side-by-side, and ask two unqualified but overly confident bourbon nerds to judge them? You get one of the most evenly matched, high-proof tasting showdowns in Tortured Bourbon history.
In this episode, we line up:
🥃 The Contenders
Old Forester Signature 100 Proof
A classic, budget-friendly workhorse that punches above its price point. Think caramel, banana bread, and a touch of spice—if your everyday pour wore a flannel and fixed your lawn mower.
Old Forester Store Pick (Single Barrel 100 Proof)
A more personalized expression with variation depending on the pick. Ours brought the heat and a little swagger. It’s the bourbon equivalent of showing up to a tasting in cowboy boots and quoting Hemingway.
Old Forester 1897 Bottled in Bond
Part of the Whiskey Row Series. Same proof, but the story—and price tag—take a leap. Rich, layered, and aiming for prestige with a nod to the 1897 Bottled in Bond Act.
🔥 The Showdown
This isn’t a blind tasting, but it is brutally honest. Heather and B sniff, sip, and sort through flavor profiles, mouthfeel, and finish—and argue whether price really matches quality. You’ll hear words like “leathery,” “dessert-y,” and “unapologetically hot,” none of which refer to B (unfortunately).
We also talk about:
Why 100 proof might be the new sweet spot for daily sippers
The psychology of store picks (do the stickers really make it better?)
How the Whiskey Row Series stands up to budget competition
🎯 The Verdict
This episode is for anyone trying to decide whether to grab the standard Signature, splurge on 1897, or hunt for that elusive unicorn store pick. Spoiler: They’re all good. But one may just surprise you with how much value it brings to your shelf.
So pour yourself a glass, hit play, and see which 100-proof warrior wins your vote.
Don’t forget to subscribe, sip responsibly, and stay tortured.
