Old Forester Releases Its First-Ever Bottled in Bond Rye in 117 Series

Old Forester has expanded its 117 Series with the introduction of its first-ever Bottled in Bond Rye Whiskey.
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Credit: Old Forester
Old Forester has expanded its 117 Series with the introduction of its first-ever Bottled in Bond Rye Whiskey, now available at the distillery’s retail shop and select online markets.

The First Bottled-in-Bond Rye From Old Forester

The new release adheres to the strict standards of the 1897 Bottled in Bond Act, requiring whiskey to be distilled during a single season by one distiller at one distillery. This small batch specifically captures the character of spirits produced during the unusually cool and wet spring of 2015, offering enthusiasts a unique expression of Old Forester’s rye whiskey craftsmanship. It is the first Bottled-in-Bond rye expression handcrafted at Old Forester. 

“This 117 Series release is unique because it holds a tie to our 1897 Bottled in Bond, our tribute to the Bottled in Bond Act,” said Old Forester Assistant Master Distiller Caleb Trigo. “This release is a first for Old Forester, and stays true to our historical promise of quality, consistency and balance.”

The whiskey is bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV) in 375 mL bottles, maintaining compliance with Bottled in Bond requirements while continuing the smaller format established by previous 117 Series releases.

Limited Availability

The 117 Series, which launched in 2021, has become known for its experimental and limited-edition offerings that showcase different aspects of Old Forester’s production capabilities.

The Old Forester 117 Series: Bottled-in-Bond Rye is now available at the retail shop at Old Forester Distillery Co. in Louisville, Kentucky. Online purchases are limited to shipping addresses in Washington D.C., Kentucky, Nebraska, New Hampshire, and North Dakota through the company’s website at shop.oldforester.com.

The 375 mL bottle carries a suggested retail price of $64.99.

Old Forester 117 Series: Bottled-in-Bond Rye Tasting Notes 

Color: Ripe Tangerine

Aroma: Sweet honeysuckle and candied lemon with hints of ginger root and thick molasses

Flavor: Intense spice immediately hits followed by charred oak, freshly cracked pepper and cooked pear

Finish: Quick and dry finish with notes of bright citrus, lemongrass and coriander

The Whiskey Wash Team

The Whiskey Wash Team brings together certified spirits specialists, industry experts, and passionate whiskey writers delivering authoritative coverage of the global whiskey landscape. With deep expertise in bourbon, Scotch, Japanese whisky, and emerging world expressions, the team combines technical knowledge with engaging storytelling. Through news, reviews, and in-depth features, we help both newcomers and connoisseurs navigate the complex world of whiskey, sharing the heritage, innovation, and craftsmanship that makes each bottle unique. Our mission is to inform, educate, and build community through trustworthy, accessible content that serves whiskey enthusiasts worldwide.

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