Old Forester 86 Proof Bourbon Whisky: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide

Welcome to the world of Old Forester 86 Proof Bourbon Whisky, a spirit that has been a trusted American classic for generations. If you’re new to bourbon or looking for a reliable, high-quality bottle that won’t break the bank, you’ve come to the perfect place. This isn’t a complicated, hard-to-find whiskey; it’s a friendly, approachable, and consistently delicious pour that serves as the foundation of the entire Old Forester brand.

This comprehensive guide will be your friendly expert as we explore everything that makes Old Forester 86 Proof Bourbon a staple on shelves and in homes across the country. We’ll break down its smooth flavor profile, explain its incredible value, and show you the best ways to enjoy it. Whether you’re making your first whiskey purchase or are a seasoned drinker looking for a dependable daily sipper, prepare to discover why Old Forester Bourbon 86 Proof is so beloved.

What is Old Forester 86 Proof Bourbon Whisky? An American Staple

Old Forester 86 Proof Bourbon Whisky is the flagship expression of the Old Forester brand, which holds the distinguished title of being the first bourbon ever sold only in sealed glass bottles. This was a revolutionary move in 1870 that guaranteed consumers a pure, unadulterated product.

The “86 Proof” in its name refers to its alcohol content, which is 43% Alcohol By Volume (ABV). This proof point is strategically chosen. It’s high enough to carry a robust flavor but low enough to be exceptionally smooth and approachable, especially for those who might find higher-proof whiskeys too intense.

As a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Old Forester 86 Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon must adhere to strict legal standards:

• Made from a grain mix of at least 51% corn.

• Aged in new, charred oak barrels.

• Distilled and aged in Kentucky.

• Contains no added coloring or flavoring.

The E-E-A-T of Old Forester: A Legacy You Can Trust

The credibility of Old Forester 86 Proof is built on a foundation that strongly aligns with E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness):

• Experience: Old Forester has been crafting bourbon since 1870, making it the oldest continuously bottled bourbon brand in America. This represents over 150 years of uninterrupted experience.

• Expertise: The knowledge of the Brown-Forman distillers, including Master Distiller Chris Morris, is passed down through generations. Their expertise in their unique heat-cycled warehouses and consistent mash bill is key to the reliable flavor of Old Forester 86.

• Authoritativeness: As a core product from a historic distillery, Old Forester Bourbon 86 is a benchmark for a quality, affordable bourbon and is widely available across the United States.

• Trustworthiness: The brand’s founding principle was to build trust by selling whiskey only in sealed bottles to ensure quality. That commitment to transparency and consistency continues today.

Tasting Notes: What Does Old Forester 86 Proof Taste Like?

Tasting Old Forester 86 Proof is a welcoming experience. Its profile is designed to be balanced, smooth, and flavorful without any single note being too aggressive.

• Proof: 86 (43% ABV)

• Mash Bill: Old Forester’s signature high-rye recipe (72% corn, 18% rye, 10% malted barley).

Nose (The Aroma):
The aroma is soft, sweet, and inviting, with very little alcohol burn.

• Sweetness: Brown sugar, caramel, and a touch of honey.

• Fruit: Ripe banana and orange citrus are classic and recognizable notes for Old Forester.

• Oak & Spice: Light oak, vanilla, and a hint of rye spice.

• Overall: It smells like a warm, baked dessert with a subtle spicy backbone.

Palate (The Taste):
The first sip is smooth and easy, with a light-to-medium body.

• The initial taste is sweet, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and butterscotch.

• The rye grain provides a gentle kick of baking spice—cinnamon and a touch of peppermint.

• The oak is mild and supportive, adding structure without bitterness.

• The mouthfeel is soft and slightly creamy, making it very easy to drink.

Finish:
The finish is relatively short, warm, and clean. The sweet and spicy notes fade gently, leaving a pleasant, slightly dry, and oaky aftertaste. There’s no harshness or lingering burn, making it an excellent choice for extended sipping.

Why Old Forester 86 Proof is a Go-To Bourbon

This bourbon has earned its place as a classic for several compelling reasons:

• Exceptional Value: The quality you get for the price is almost unmatched.

• Perfect Proof for Beginners: Its 86-proof strength is the ideal “sweet spot” for those new to whiskey.

• Incredible Versatility: It is a true all-rounder, performing beautifully neat, on the rocks, or in any cocktail.

• Consistent Quality: You know exactly what you’re getting with every bottle—a reliable, well-made bourbon.

How to Drink Old Forester 86 Proof

The Old Forester 86 Proof Bourbon might be the most versatile whiskey in your cabinet. Here are the best ways to enjoy it.

1. Neat or On the Rocks

Its smoothness makes it an excellent candidate for sipping.

• Neat: Pour into a rocks glass to appreciate its simple, sweet character.

• On the Rocks: Serve over ice. The slight dilution can make it even smoother and bring out more caramel notes.

2. In a Cocktail (Its True Calling)

This is where Old Forester Bourbon 86 truly shines. Its balanced flavor supports other ingredients without disappearing.

The Perfect Old Fashioned

• Recipe:

  • 2 oz Old Forester 86 Proof

  • 1/4 oz simple syrup

  • 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters

• Instructions: Combine in a rocks glass with ice. Stir gently. Garnish with an orange twist.

The Classic Whiskey Sour

• Recipe:

  • 2 oz Old Forester 86 Proof Bourbon

  • 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice

  • 3/4 oz simple syrup

• Instructions: Shake all ingredients vigorously with ice and strain into a chilled glass.

The Simple & Refreshing Highball

• Recipe: 2 oz Old Forester 86, 4-5 oz ginger ale or cola.

• Instructions: Build in a highball glass filled with ice. Stir gently and garnish with a lemon wedge.

Old Forester 86 vs 100: Which Should You Choose?

A common question for beginners is the difference between Old Forester 86 and its sibling, Old Forester 100 Proof.

• Old Forester 86 Proof:

  • Profile: Smoother, lighter, and sweeter.

  • Best For: Beginners, casual sipping, and cocktails where you want the whiskey to blend harmoniously.

  • Experience: A gentle, easy-going introduction.

• Old Forester 100 Proof:

  • Profile: Bolder, spicier, and more robust.

  • Best For: Those who enjoy a stronger whiskey, spirit-forward cocktails (like a Manhattan), and sipping neat.

  • Experience: A more intense and flavor-packed version.

The Verdict: If you’re new to bourbon, start with the 86 Proof. If you already enjoy bold flavors, go for the 100 Proof.

Old Forester 86 Proof Price and Value

The Old Forester 86 Proof price is one of its biggest selling points. You can typically find a 750ml bottle for between $20 and $25.

Is it worth it?
Without a doubt. In the world of bourbon, it is notoriously difficult to find a bottle with this much history, quality, and versatility at this price point. It consistently outperforms bourbons that cost $10-$15 more, making it one of the best value-for-money bottles on the market.

Where to Buy Old Forester 86 Proof

Old Forester 86 Proof Bourbon Whiskey is widely available at almost every liquor store, supermarket, and online retailer in the United States. Its accessibility is a core part of its identity.

A search for “Old Forester 86 Proof near me” or “Old Forester Bourbon 86 price” will yield countless results.

For authoritative information on bourbon history and standards, you can visit the Kentucky Distillers’ Association website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is Old Forester 86 Proof a good bourbon for beginners?
Yes, it is one of the most highly recommended bourbons for beginners. Its 86-proof strength makes it smooth and approachable with very little alcohol burn. The flavor profile is balanced and not overly complex, which is perfect for a palate that is just starting to explore whiskey. It’s an ideal “training wheel” bourbon.

Q2: What does the “86” mean in Old Forester 86?
The “86” refers to its proof, which is a measure of its alcohol content. In the United States, proof is twice the percentage of Alcohol By Volume (ABV). So, Old Forester 86 Proof is 43% ABV. This places it in a category that is stronger than basic 80-proof whiskeys but milder than 100-proof “bottled in bond” expressions.

Q3: Is there a noticeable banana note in Old Forester 86?
Yes, many tasters, including experts, detect a distinct ripe banana note in the aroma and flavor of Old Forester 86 Proof. This is a characteristic signature of the Brown-Forman distillery (which also makes Jack Daniel’s) and is often attributed to their specific yeast strain and fermentation process. It’s a pleasant, sweet fruitiness that sets it apart.

Q4: How should I store an opened bottle?
Store the bottle upright in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. An opened bottle will slowly oxidize over 1-2 years, but the whiskey will remain perfectly good to drink. The high alcohol content acts as a preservative.

Q5: Can I use Old Forester 86 for cooking?
Absolutely! Its sweet and oaky character makes it an excellent ingredient for cooking. You can use it to deglaze a pan for a steak sauce, add a splash to chili or baked beans, or use it in a marinade. Just remember that the alcohol will mostly cook off, leaving behind its delicious flavor.