Old Forester Statesman

I was sort of taken aback by this bourbon — I have been an Old Forester fan for quite some time, and decided to grab a bottle of Statesman on a whim at the grocery store since I’ve never tried it before. I think I always assumed it was a bit of a gimmick release? But I was wrong. It is really nicely balanced, sweet and fruity with just enough spice and heat to keep me coming back for another sip. Great finish too — I got a little more heat on the back end than I got upfront, but again, this is really nicely balanced. The proof seems to be just right to let the flavors shine without overpowering. Maybe controversial, but this might be my favorite regular Old Forester bottling. (Yes, I am saying it is better than 1920 Prohibition Style.)

A very moderated pour. Nose is pleasant - nothing stands out as bold, spicy, etc. - just pleasant and soft. Palate is true to the same character… baking sweetness is most prominent, vanilla and maple types of notes, but again it’s all very moderate. Finish is very short. Almost no one will hate this, but it is easily overshadowed by nearly any othet pour.

Nose is fuuuuull of bright sweet heavy fruit compared to others in the lineup. Sweet and creamy on the nose and taste. Mid heft on the pallette with tons of the that signature corn mash bill hit. I really enjoy the nose, but get a little lost in the finish. Its sweet but in a more vegatative way

A good bourbon no doubt. Red popsicle and berry hit you first, then a little bubble gum. Some leather and oak on the palate. It's balanced very well. The finish is quite short but refreshing as if you spit out a good piece of gum. Worth keeping a bottle on the shelf for a different experience.

This is pretty disappointing. Nose is fairly traditional but nothing special. Definitely drinks hotter than 95 proof with a lot of spice coming through and not a lot of OF banana. Finish is very spicy with a touch of cherry. Wouldn’t buy again and would pick OF 100 all day over this.

Pleasant to the nose; I definitely capture the initial sweet notes. A little smoother than I expected, however a bit of spice on the finish. Notes of caramel, hint toffee and a smidge of banana nut bread. This is one in the OF line I would not hesitate to purchase again.