Old Forester's coveted President's Choice bourbon, now carries a $225 price tag for bottles aged a maximum of 9 years. This adjustment in age for a premium product could prompt reevaluation from collectors and connoisseurs who prioritize maturity in their selections.
Old Forester is releasing its 2026 President's Choice at a premium price, but the age statement for the series has been significantly reduced since 2025. This decision creates a tension between the brand's established market position and evolving product specifications.
Consumers should expect a younger profile in these premium bottles, potentially impacting their long-term collectibility or immediate drinking experience compared to previous editions.
- Old Forester is releasing the 2026 edition of President's Choice, a single barrel bourbon and rye whiskey, according to Robb Report.
- Old Forester President's Choice Bourbon and President's Choice Rye will be available nationally starting June 13, according to bevnet.
- Both expressions have a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $225, according to bevnet.
This annual release continues Old Forester's tradition of offering highly sought-after single barrel expressions to a broad market at a premium price point.
A Shifting Profile: Younger Age, New Expressions
The age statement on President's Choice bottles shifted from 7 to 12 years to 7 to 9 years starting in 2025, according to Gear Patrol. Old Forester President's Choice Bourbon is aged between 7-9 years. This reduction in age for the bourbon expression marks a notable change in the series' long-standing profile.
The 2025 release of President's Choice included a rye whiskey expression in addition to the bourbon, according to Gear Patrol. Old Forester President's Choice Bourbon is bottled at 60.25% alcohol. This diversification, alongside a consistent proof, suggests an expanded strategy for the ultra-premium line.
