Old Forester Unveils First Bottled in Bond Rye Edition in 117 Series
Old Forester®, the renowned bourbon brand, is making waves in the whiskey world with the release of its first Bottled in Bond Rye Whisky, part of the acclaimed 117 Series. Officially unveiled on March 18, 2025, this new variant not only marks a significant milestone for the brand but also pays homage to the historic Bottled in Bond Act of 1897. This act was instrumental in ensuring quality and consistency in alcoholic beverages, mandating that each bottling comes from a single distillation season and is aged for at least four years.
Old Forester has carefully crafted this limited batch of Rye Whisky to reflect the unique distilling conditions from the spring of 2015, which was notably cool and rainy. The result is an exceptional whisky that promises to captivate enthusiasts and newcomers alike. The Bottled in Bond Rye is bottled at a robust 100-proof and housed in an elegantly designed 375 mL bottle.
Caleb Trigo, the Assistant Master Distiller at Old Forester, expressed his excitement about this launch, stating, "This 117 Series release is unique because it holds a tie to our 1897 Bottled in Bond, our tribute to the Bottled in Bond Act. This release is a first for Old Forester and stays true to our historical promise of quality, consistency, and balance."
The 117 Series, initiated in 2021, has gained a loyal following, and the introduction of the Bottled in Bond Rye is poised to enhance this reputation with its distinctive flavor profile. Whiskey aficionados can find this new offering at the Old Forester Distillery Co.'s retail shop and it will soon be available for shipment within select states, including D.C., Kentucky, Nebraska, New Hampshire, and North Dakota. The suggested retail price for the 375 mL bottle is set at $64.99.
As for the tasting notes, the Bottled in Bond Rye showcases a vibrant, ripe tangerine color. Its aroma is a sweet blend of honeysuckle and candied lemon, complemented by hints of ginger root and thick molasses. Upon tasting, drinkers can expect an immediate hit of intense spice, along with flavors of charred oak, freshly cracked pepper, and cooked pear. The finish is quick and dry, leaving a refreshing nuance of bright citrus, lemongrass, and coriander, making it a versatile choice for various occasions.
Old Forester, founded in 1870 by George Garvin Brown, prides itself on being the first bottled bourbon brand, setting high standards for quality and transparency. John Brown promised consumers, "There is nothing better in the market," and this ethos continues to resonate with the brand today. As Old Forester introduces the Bottled in Bond Rye, it not only enhances its product line but also reinforces its commitment to exceptional craftsmanship that has spanned over 150 years.
This innovative release is expected to garner attention across the bourbon community, and for those interested in exploring the legacy of Old Forester, further information can be found at their official website, OldForester.com. With each bottle of the Bottled in Bond Rye, whiskey lovers have the opportunity to engage with a piece of history, bringing together tradition and modern craftsmanship seamlessly.