Louisville, Ky. (March 23, 2021) – Old Forester today announces a new limited expression lineup – The 117 Series – hitting shelves at Old Forester Distilling Co. on March 24 with its inaugural release, High Angels’ Share. The series, directed by the distinctive palate of Old Forester Master Taster Jackie Zykan, will showcase the many facets of the Old Forester flavors and its label will bear her name, making this the first bottle in the brand’s more than 150 year history to feature a woman’s signature.

The 117 Series: High Angels’ Share showcases a selection of barrels which lost exceptional volume to evaporation in the aging process, resulting in a bourbon that is rich and multidimensional, layered with dark flavor notes, dried fruits and unexpected herbaceous  qualities. Given the dense concentration of flavors in the liquid, air, water or an ice cube allow this whisky to open and unveil unorthodox character. This release examines the unfettered qualities presented in low-yield barrels, showing Old Forester consumers an unencumbered look at this specific facet of the ageing process. This singular release is presented at 110 proof.

The 117 Series is a testament to Old Forester’s continued endeavors in product innovation and experimentation and allows for consumers to try a wide range of Old Forester’s flavor profiles. From controlling the mash and yeast strain, to barrels and maturation environments, the possibilities are limitless. Subsequent releases in The 117 Series may explore selections from specific warehouses, barrel manipulations, deconstructed blends and more.

“Creating The 117 Series has been a labor of love and seeing my signature on the label is one of the highlights of my career. My mind is exploding with the endless possibilities of this smaller scale of experimentation and innovation,” said Jackie Zykan. “This series presents an opportunity to pull the curtain back and share the isolates of the blending process to help deepen the understanding of how variants in maturation affect flavor profile. We’re playing in uncharted territory here and those who love Old Forester like we do will have the chance to explore with us.”

The name pays homage to the location of Old Forester’s homeplace along the famed Whiskey Row on Main Street in Louisville. Old Forester also called this location home from 1882 – 1919, returning in 2018 with a fully-functioning distillery and tour experience giving guests an immersion into the brand’s rich history and contemporary innovations.

On Wednesday, March 24, The 117 Series: High Angels’ Share will be available to the public via the retail shop at Old Forester Distilling Co. Due to social distancing requirements and in-store capacities**, a limited number of tickets will be issued daily for fans to purchase up to four bottles of The 117 Series. Tickets must be redeemed the day they are received.  

The 117 Series releases will be sold for a suggested retail price of $49.99 at Old Forester Distilling Co. and in limited quantities at select Kentucky retailers. For product locator, availability and information on the upcoming releases from The 117 Series, sign up for the email list at OldForester.com

Old Forester 117 Series: High Angels’ Share Tasting Notes:

Proof: 110

Color: Raw Garnet

Aroma: Bold, with rich caramel, toasted coconut, dried cranberry, and dark brown sugar amongst a background of intense oak spice

Taste: Full bodied, opens with molasses and dense dessert elements then trails into anise and celery seed

Finish: Extensive, full palate, with roaring spice, roasted coffee and black pepper