Are you replenishing your liquor cabinet ahead of the holidays? Most people do so to beat the shopping rush. Moreover, this is usually the time when popular labels tease seasonal drops, shortly before they hit the market. For instance, we have Old Forester as it introduces the Tribute Series 2026 edition — a special expression for bourbon fans.
Moving forward, the distillery is planning on making it an annual affair. For this inaugural release, drinkers get to enjoy a 12-year-old spirit that underwent a careful aging process. They’re calling it heat-cycling. After a bit of research, we now have an idea of what this entails. Think of it as precision temperature control to shorten maturation.
Every barrel is outfitted with a thermal sensor, which automatically triggers once the mercury drops to 60°F. By pumping in steam, Old Forester raises the temperature to between 85°F and 90°F. Expansion and contraction of the liquid allows the Tribute Series 2026 edition to develop its signature character more quickly.
The official tasting notes describe pleasant aromas of sweet leather, dried golden raisins, buttery caramel, and dark cherries. A swig of this bourbon “reveals a nostalgic burst of effervescent cherry cola and crunchy candied walnuts, evolving into a sophisticated tapestry of sweet cinnamon spice and exotic cardamom.”
It then leaves your mouth with hints of cracked peppercorn, charred toasted oak, dry black tea, and richer cherry preserves. Each Tribute Series 2026 edition is bottled at 115 proof. Speaking of bottling, the bourbon is shipping in a fancy crystal decanter. Finally, the slim and elegant design draws inspiration from Old Forester’s memorable holiday decanter collection.
Learn More
Images courtesy of Old Forester
