Introduction
We recently got our hands on a bottle of Old Forester 1910, a member of Old Forester’s Whiskey Row series. This series includes the 1870 Original Batch, 1897 Bottled in Bond, 1920 Prohibition Style, and today’s focus—the 1910 Old Fine Whisky. We’ve had great experiences with Old Forester’s offerings, particularly the 1920 Prohibition Style, which we consider one of the best values in bourbon under $60. Despite our love for the 1920, we hadn’t tried the 1910 until now, mainly because we kept hearing it was good but not quite as good as the 1920. But today, we’re diving into the 1910, and we’re excited to see how it stands on its own.
This review was taken from our episode "Toy Story 2 / Old Forester 1910." Click the link to listen to this review in audio format.
Nose
Bob: This nose is absolutely captivating. It’s beautifully smooth with a lot of vanilla, a touch of nuttiness, and a rich caramel undertone. It’s also a bit creamy, which really rounds it out. I’m giving it an 8/10.
Brad: I’m loving this nose, too. It has all the classic bourbon notes with a nice oak presence, but it’s not too overpowering. There’s also a lot of baking spices here, particularly cinnamon, along with green apple and some floral notes. It transitions from dark and sweet to bright and fruity, which makes it incredibly vibrant. I’m giving it a 9/10.
Taste
Brad: This is really, really good. It’s creamy caramel mixed with oak, and I even pick up a hazelnut flavor. It’s smooth yet robust, one of the best flavor profiles I’ve experienced in a whiskey. I’m going with a 9/10.
Bob: I can see the connection to Woodford Reserve, but honestly, this reminds me more of Blanton’s. It’s at the same proof point, but it’s not as harsh. However, it’s also not as sweet as I expected, and the green apple I got on the nose doesn’t carry through. It’s still good, but it’s a step down from the nose. I’m giving it a 7.5/10.
Finish
Brad: I’m sticking with my assessment of this whiskey’s smoothness. The finish is nice, with soft notes of hazelnut and caramel, and a bit of oakiness. I wish the finish lasted longer, but that’s a minor complaint. I’m giving it an 8.5/10.
Bob: I like the finish here. It packs a punch for being only 93 proof—it’s not harsh, but it’s definitely present on the way down. However, it doesn’t quite live up to the nose’s complexity. I’m giving it a 7.5/10.
Balance
Bob: When considering the nose, taste, and finish together, there’s definitely a step down from the nose to the taste and finish. It’s not a bad experience, but the complexity of the nose isn’t matched by the palate or finish. I’m giving it a 7.5/10.
Brad: I think this is an incredibly well-balanced whiskey from start to finish. It’s smooth and flavorful, and I think the 93 proof point is perfect for what they’re offering here. I’m giving it a 9.5/10.
Value
Brad: At $55, this is a phenomenal value. It’s not perfect, but it’s solid, and there’s nothing else in this price range that compares. I’m giving it an 8/10.
Bob: It’s not a terrible value at $56, but when you can get the 1920 for essentially the same price, I see why people lean towards that one. I’m giving it a 6/10.
Final Scores
Bob: My final score comes out to a 37.5/50. Brad: My final score is a 43/50.
Together, that gives Old Forester 1910 a combined score of 40.25/50. This is a really solid whiskey that we both recommend trying or buying. It’s a no-brainer at this score, and it’s impressive how well it holds its own, even compared to its sibling, the 1920. If you haven’t tried Old Forester 1910 yet, it’s definitely worth picking up.
