Old Forester Distilling Company
Brown-Forman
58.5%
7-9 Years
Old Forester President's Choice Rye (2026 Release) is a limited-edition, single-barrel rye whiskey released as part of the brand's annual President's Choice lineup. Marking the second consecutive year the series has included a rye expression, the 2026 release features barrels selected for their quality and distinct character. Each barrel is aged 7 to 9 years and bottled at barrel strength, with proofs ranging from 110 to 125. The rye carries a suggested retail price of $225.
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The note is dry and spiced, full of seared oak, clove, chicory, raisins and browned butter.
The palate is warm and opens with plenty of cola, clove, sassafras, pine and nutmeg, followed by anise, orange peel, ginger and crème brûlée. With air, there’s a nice, clean orchard fruit note that comes out too with apple and pear.
The finish kicks off with a bit of heat and a blast of powdered ginger and nutmeg, which softens into clove and a touch of cocoa and marshmallow fluff.
A spice bomb, and a good one, but the bourbon is the clear winner of the two 2026 Presidents Choice release. When it comes to mouthfeel and complexity of flavor, this rye can’t compete with the bourbon. It’s still a very good rye whiskey, but if you’re going to buy one or the other, I’d recommend the bourbon.
91
Disclosure: The producer provided this sample to review free of charge, and without expectation of review or rating.