Similar to the rye grain that makes it spicy, the entire rye category is hot. According to the Distilled Spirits Council – DISCUS, rye whiskey sales in the U.S. grew 934 percent between 2009 and 2017. As announced during their last investor presentation, Brown-Forman is adding a rye whiskey to its first iconic product – Old Forester.
Old Forester Introduces 1st Rye Whiskey
“Our signature bourbon recipe has done this brand proud through Prohibition, World Wars and changing consumer palates,” said Campbell Brown, Old Forester President and great-great grandson of founder George Garvin Brown. “This January we will create a new tradition with a Kentucky Straight Rye that will capture the hearts and excite the palates of experienced Rye drinkers and curious whisky enthusiasts alike.”
The newest expression from Old Forester was crafted by Master Distiller Chris Morris and Master Taster Jackie Zykan. Old Forester Rye is inspired by the historic recipe for Normandy Rye, a brand which Brown-Forman acquired in 1940. The Old Forester Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey mash bill consists of 65% rye, 20% malted barley and 15% corn vs. the standard Old Forester Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey mash bill consists of 72% corn, 18% rye and 10% malted barley.
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“Throughout history, rye whisky showcased a balanced grain recipe,” said Chris Morris, VP Master Distiller-Whiskey Innovation. “The high proportion of malted barley in this traditional recipe allows for a wholly natural fermentation process, leveraging Old Forester’s proprietary yeast strain. The generous percentage of Malted Barley yields a unique floral character, producing a remarkably balanced Rye.”
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Old Forester Rye Tasting Notes from Master Taster Jackie Zykan
“Old Forester Rye stays true to our standards of quality, consistency, and balance while delivering on value as only Old Forester can,” said Zykan. “The spicy, yet floral complexity of this expression offers a completely different flavor profile than its bourbon cousin. At 100 proof, it plays beautifully in cocktails, but also stands up boldly on its own.”
Aroma: Rich brown sugar and magnolia blossom, with hints of soft sassafras and candied lemon
Taste: Spice awakens immediately leading with sharp black pepper and cinnamon stick, rounding out with notes of dried dill and baked apple
Finish: Allspice and peppercorn introduce a long and dry finish which ignites with pine, anise and bright lemon zest
Old Forester Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey is bottled at 100° and has a suggested retail price of $22.99. It will be available nationwide beginning February 1, 2019.
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Old Forester Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
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