Old Forester Birthday Bourbon 2025 Release
Old Forester Birthday Bourbon 2025 — 12-Year, 92 Proof (Sweet Mash Edition)
Description
Celebrate the 25th edition of one of bourbon’s most sought-after limited releases: the 2025 Old Forester Birthday Bourbon. Honoring the birthdate of founder George Garvin Brown (September 2), this year’s release brings a bold twist while staying true to tradition.
This 12-year Kentucky straight bourbon is bottled at 92 proof (46 % ABV), and marks the first time the Birthday Bourbon line is produced using a sweet mash process (i.e. no “setback”) — yielding a more delicate, layered flavor profile.
Distillers filled 210 barrels on April 5, 2013, and aged them on the 1st and 5th floors of Warehouse K in Louisville.
Because of its limited availability, the 2025 edition is being offered through a sweepstakes entry rather than a traditional distillery release. Winners may pick up their bottles at the Old Forester Distillery between September 4 and December 20, 2025.
Tasting Notes & Character
- Nose: Herbal tea, cardamom, green apple, tropical fruit, honeycomb, soft citrus zest.
- Palate: Rich oak and vanilla, airy clove and citrus, hints of spice and leather.
- Finish: Candied apple, chai spice, lingering warmth with gentle sweetness.
Expect a more elegant mouthfeel compared to earlier, higher-proof releases, with the sweet mash approach softening the edges while preserving depth.
Key Features & Highlights
- Limited edition & collectible: Only a small batch (210 barrels) produced.
- First sweet mash in line history: A departure from tradition to explore new nuance.
- Typical specs: 12-year age statement, 92 proof, 700 mL.
- Sweepstakes only: Not sold in stores on September 2; purchase through national online drawing.