Old Forester is celebrating its 25th annual release of Birthday Bourbon with a distinctive twist: a 12-year-old, 92-proof expression crafted entirely without “setback” during fermentation. This rare choice allows freshly-propagated yeast to shine, producing a silky, sweet flavor profile that sets the 2025 bottling apart from previous editions.
“This year’s absence of setback allowed the yeast to express its full character, creating a flavor profile that’s both delicate and complex,” said Assistant Master Distiller Caleb Trigo.
Drawn from barrels aged in Warehouse K, Floors 1 and 5, this batch represents one day’s production: April 5, 2013. Master Distiller Emeritus Chris Morris and Trigo hand-selected 210 barrels to craft this limited-edition bourbon.
Old Forester 2025 Birthday Bourbon Tasting Profile
The honeycomb-colored whisky opens with aromas of herbal tea, cardamom, and raw oak, layered with tropical fruits and green apple. On the palate, drinkers find silky oak and vanilla, balanced with sweet citrus and subtle clove spice. The finish lingers with candied apple, burnt sugar, leather, and chai spices—a tasting experience that mirrors the craftsmanship and history behind Old Forester.
How to buy a bottle
Old Forester Birthday Bourbon is released each September 2 to honor founder George Garvin Brown, but this year’s bottle will not be sold at the distillery on the anniversary. Instead, enthusiasts have the chance to purchase a bottle through a limited online sweepstakes at OldForester.com from August 18 through August 21, 2025. Winners must pick up their bottles at the Old Forester Distillery in Louisville between September 4 and December 20, 2025. Each bottle is priced at $199.99, with a limit of one per customer.
“There’s no better way to honor our founder than by sharing this rare and remarkable expression with bourbon lovers nationwide,” said Master Taster Melissa Rift.
Limited Availability
Beyond the sweepstakes, the 2025 Birthday Bourbon will be available in limited quantities at select retailers nationwide. Collectors and enthusiasts are advised to act quickly, as past releases have sold out rapidly due to high demand and the unique production process that makes each bottle of Birthday Bourbon truly special.
