Old Forester Birthday Bourbon 2025 — 12-Year, 92 Proof (Sweet Mash Edition)

Description

Celebrate the 25th edition of one of bourbon’s most sought-after limited releases: the 2025 Old Forester Birthday Bourbon. Honoring the birthdate of founder George Garvin Brown (September 2), this year’s release brings a bold twist while staying true to tradition. 

This 12-year Kentucky straight bourbon is bottled at 92 proof (46 % ABV), and marks the first time the Birthday Bourbon line is produced using a sweet mash process (i.e. no “setback”) — yielding a more delicate, layered flavor profile. 

Distillers filled 210 barrels on April 5, 2013, and aged them on the 1st and 5th floors of Warehouse K.  

Because of its limited availability, the 2025 edition is being offered through a sweepstakes entry rather than a traditional distillery release.  Winners may pick up their bottles at the Old Forester Distillery between September 4 and December 20, 2025. 

Tasting Notes & Character

• Nose: Herbal tea, cardamom, green apple, tropical fruit, honeycomb, soft citrus zest.  
• Palate: Rich oak and vanilla, airy clove and citrus, hints of spice and leather.  
• Finish: Candied apple, chai spice, lingering warmth with gentle sweetness.  

Expect a more elegant mouthfeel compared to earlier, higher-proof releases, with the sweet mash approach softening the edges while preserving depth. 

Key Features & Highlights

• Limited edition & collectible: Only a small batch (210 barrels) produced.
• First sweet mash in line history: A departure from tradition to explore new nuance.
• Typical specs: 12-year age statement, 92 proof, 700 mL.
• Sweepstakes only: Not sold in stores on September 2; purchase through national online drawing.