Released in July 2024, Old Forester The 117 Series Rum Finish is produced by Brown-Forman at the Shively Distillery. It has a mashbill of 72% corn, 18% rye and 10% malted barley and is finished in barrels that held rum for at least four years, with the aging process lasting about six months. Bottled at 95 proof, it hosts a suggested retail price of $60.
Old Forester 117 Rum Cask Finish Bourbon is a disappointing miss that doesn’t live up to the standards set by the other 117 releases. The bourbon feels young and the finish isn’t well integrated with the bourbon.
I can’t help but feel the bourbon that went into the rum casks was simply younger than optimal, which led to a less-than-consistent experience at a few junctures. That said, if you’re a fan of Old Forester and want to try a completely new take on its profile, this is a potentially palate-expanding pour worth trying.
