Distilled By: Old Forester / Brown-Forman
Location: Louisville, KY
Parent Company: Brown-Forman Distillers Company
Class: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky
Proof: 95 (47.5% ABV)
Age: NAS (5-6 years)
Mashbill: 72% Corn, 18% Rye, 10% Malted Barley
It is sometimes debated wether or not this bottle should be considered a part of the Old Forester Whiskey Row series. Statesman was inspired by the film “Kingsman: The Golden Circle” and was aged in the warmest places in the warehouse, aka the top floors. They say true character is only revealed after little heat and this product is intended to offer a balance of heat and spice.
BSG REVIEW:
Color: Golden/Brown, long-wide legs on the glass
Nose: Musty, charred oak bomb
Palate: Stone fruit, cherry, toasted marshmallow, light oak
Finish: Dry, a little caramel, medium-long finish with lingering pepper notes.
This release is a bit of an under appreciated one, probably because many consumers may consider it a gimmick with the movie tie-in. However, I found it to be a unique and enjoyable bourbon. I can’t say it is as good as some of the stand out offerings in the Whiskey Row series (like the 1920 and the 1910), but is definitely worthy of a try if you have an affinity for the oaky, peppery side of the bourbon flavor spectrum. Coming in at 95 proof, Statesman has just enough punch to stand up to a cube or two if you want to tame the oak flavor down a bit without losing all of the spiciness as well.
Check out the BSG Review for all of the releases in the Old Forester Whiskey Row series (1870, 1897, 1920, 1910).
BSG Score: 88/100
Leave a Reply