Old Forester Debuts Tribute Series With 12-Year-Old Bourbon

Old Forester is introducing the Tribute Series, a new annual release celebrating the brand’s history of bourbon-making innovation and distinctive packaging.

The inaugural 2026 release features a 12-year-old bourbon bottled at 115 proof in a collectible decanter inspired by Old Forester’s historic holiday decanter collection. The limited release is scheduled to arrive at select retailers nationwide beginning October 15, with a suggested retail price of $299.99.

Old Forester Tribute Series Features 12-Year-Old Bourbon

The Tribute Series is designed to showcase some of Old Forester’s most mature whiskey stocks while honoring the brand’s legacy of innovation. According to the distillery, the release brings together age-stated bourbon through a distinctive batching and maturation process rather than relying on single-barrel or single-lot selections.

The series also draws on Old Forester’s history of experimentation, including its double-barreled expression and heat-cycled maturation process. The brand says each release will be bottled at an optimal proof between 110 and 125, with the goal of delivering a rich profile that reflects the character of its high-aged bourbon.

“The Tribute Series celebrates the craftsmanship and innovation that has defined Old Forester for generations,” said Caleb Trigo, Assistant Master Distiller. “By bringing together some of our most mature whisky and drawing inspiration from an important chapter in our design history, we’ve created an expression that honors where Old Forester has been while showcasing what makes our whisky distinctive today.”

Tasting Notes for the 2026 Old Forester Tribute Series

According to the distillery, the inaugural release opens with aromas of warm caramel, sweet leather, golden raisins and dark cherries. On the palate, cherry and candied walnut notes develop into sweet cinnamon and cardamom. The finish features toasted oak, peppercorn, cherry preserves and black tea.

Collectible Decanter Inspired by Old Forester History

The 2026 Tribute Series comes in an architectural glass bottle inspired by Old Forester’s historic holiday decanters. First introduced in 1950, the original decanter collection paired whiskey with distinctive packaging designed to become a lasting piece for the home. Annual releases from 1954 through 1969 brought mid-century design into the brand’s holiday gifting tradition.

The new bottle reinterprets that heritage with vertical glass facets, metallic accents and a substantial metallic stopper engraved with Old Forester’s historic quality statement. The packaging is designed to connect the new series with the brand’s longstanding emphasis on distinctive bottle design.

Old Forester Tribute Series Release Details

The 2026 Old Forester Tribute Series is a 12-year-old bourbon bottled at 115 proof. It will be available in limited quantities at select retailers nationwide beginning October 15, 2026, with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $299.99.