I recently had the pleasure of picking up a bottle of Old Forester King Ranch Bourbon for $99, and let me tell you, it was worth every penny. As a fan of Old Forester and someone who appreciates a good Texas heritage, the King Ranch version immediately caught my eye. Not only does this bourbon have a unique backstory, blending Kentucky craftsmanship with a nod to Texas history, but it also offers a tasting experience that’s genuinely remarkable. Let’s take a deep dive into what makes this bottle special, from its history to its tasting notes.
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The Story Behind Old Forester King Ranch Bourbon
Old Forester has a storied history as one of America’s oldest continuously operating bourbon brands. Established in 1870 by George Garvin Brown, Old Forester is part of Brown-Forman, one of the biggest names in the whiskey world, known for its consistent quality and dedication to the craft. However, the King Ranch edition is a special creation, made to honor Texas’ legendary King Ranch.
King Ranch itself is an iconic piece of Texan history. Spanning more than 825,000 acres in South Texas, it’s one of the largest ranches in the world and has influenced everything from agriculture to cattle breeding in the United States. Established in 1853 by Captain Richard King, the ranch has become a symbol of the spirit and resilience of Texas. Old Forester partnered with King Ranch to create a bourbon that would embody the essence of this legacy.
What makes this edition particularly unique is that it incorporates mesquite, a wood synonymous with Texas, in its finishing process. This doesn’t mean it’s a smoky bourbon like a Scotch but rather gives it a subtly nuanced Texan twist, merging the rich Old Forester flavor profile with a taste that evokes the heart of Texas.
A First Sip of Old Forester King Ranch Bourbon: Tasting Notes
Now, onto the main event: the tasting experience. Pouring a glass of Old Forester King Ranch Bourbon, I immediately noticed its deep amber hue, rich and inviting. From the first sip, it’s clear that this isn’t just any bourbon; it’s one that balances tradition with innovation, creating a blend that’s both familiar and distinctly Texan.
Nose:
The nose is where I was first introduced to the complexity of this bourbon. You get the classic Old Forester notes — caramel, vanilla, and oak — but there’s also something extra, a hint of warmth that’s likely influenced by the mesquite. I caught a subtle smokiness, not overpowering but present enough to add depth. There are also traces of dark chocolate and leather, adding a richness that complements the caramel sweetness perfectly.
Palate:
Taking that first sip, the flavors open up beautifully. The caramel and vanilla come through immediately, but they’re followed by a slightly earthy undertone. The mesquite adds a layer of subtle warmth and a unique richness to the bourbon, giving it a depth that Old Forester fans will appreciate but also making it feel distinctly Texan. There’s a hint of charred wood, but it doesn’t overpower; instead, it rounds out the sweetness and adds balance. Mid-palate, you’ll notice a touch of dark fruit, perhaps black cherry or fig, blending with the caramel and spice in a harmonious finish.
Finish:
The finish is long, smooth, and satisfying. There’s a warm spice that lingers, likely from the high rye content typical of Old Forester bourbons. The mesquite influence comes through again in a soft, smoky aftertaste that leaves you wanting more. I noticed a touch of cinnamon and a whisper of clove, adding a spicy warmth that’s perfect for a cool evening. This is a bourbon with staying power — the kind that hangs around pleasantly after you’ve taken a sip, reminding you of its complexity and richness.
Why the King Ranch Edition Stands Out
Old Forester King Ranch isn’t just another special edition release; it’s a bourbon that tells a story. The mesquite influence is what makes it stand out, adding a subtle complexity that feels both authentic and distinctive. It’s clear that Old Forester didn’t just slap the King Ranch name on the bottle — they crafted this bourbon thoughtfully, blending Kentucky tradition with a Texan twist.
For me, the King Ranch edition feels like a tribute to the idea of legacy. Both Old Forester and King Ranch are institutions in their own rights, with long histories and deep ties to American culture. This bourbon is a celebration of that legacy, merging two iconic brands into a single, carefully crafted bottle. It’s a reminder of how tradition can be honored while still embracing something new and exciting.
Enjoying Old Forester King Ranch Bourbon: My Recommendations
With such a unique profile, there are a few ways to enjoy Old Forester King Ranch that bring out its best features.
- Neat or With a Drop of Water: This bourbon truly shines on its own, and for the purists out there, sipping it neat allows you to appreciate its full depth. Adding a drop or two of water opens up the flavors even more, mellowing out the spice and letting those subtle smoky notes shine.
- On the Rocks: If you prefer your bourbon chilled, a single large ice cube can be a great choice. It cools the bourbon without overly diluting it, letting you enjoy its complexity as the ice melts slowly.
- Old Fashioned: While I usually stick to neat for bourbons of this quality, Old Forester King Ranch does lend itself well to an Old Fashioned. The mesquite and dark fruit notes add an extra layer of flavor, creating a richer, more complex cocktail.
Who Will Love Old Forester King Ranch Bourbon?
This is a bourbon for anyone who loves a good story in their glass. The Old Forester King Ranch edition is ideal for bourbon enthusiasts who appreciate a classic Kentucky bourbon but are open to a twist. The mesquite influence is subtle but distinctive, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy sipping whiskies with unique flavor profiles.
I think Texas residents, in particular, will find a lot to love here. There’s something special about drinking a bourbon that feels like it’s been crafted with Texas in mind. It’s a little like holding a piece of the Lone Star State in a glass, one that speaks to the bold, rugged spirit of Texas.
Where to Find Old Forester King Ranch Bourbon
Old Forester King Ranch Bourbon is available in limited quantities, and I was lucky to snag a bottle at my local liquor store. If you’re in Texas, you might have better luck finding it, as it’s more widely available there due to its special connection with King Ranch. However, Old Forester fans across the country may be able to find it in select stores or order it online from a retailer that ships to your area.
Final Thoughts
Old Forester King Ranch Bourbon is a fantastic addition to any whiskey collection, especially for those who appreciate the artistry of bourbon-making. With its rich history, Texan flair, and complex flavor profile, it’s a bottle that deserves a spot on the shelf — or better yet, poured into a glass and savored slowly. For $99, this bourbon offers great value for its quality and uniqueness. It’s a true tribute to both Kentucky craftsmanship and Texan heritage, blending them seamlessly into a sip-worthy masterpiece.
Whether you’re a Texan, a bourbon enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a rich and satisfying whiskey experience, Old Forester King Ranch Bourbon is well worth the investment. So, pour a glass, sit back, and let this bourbon take you on a journey through tradition, taste, and the Texas spirit. Cheers!
About the Author
A native of Texas, Ken “Texan” Pierce is a renowned alcohol aficionado with decades of experience in the Texas wine, whiskey, and beer industry. With a vast number of alcohol production resources right in his back yard in the Texas Hill Country, Ken has made it his mission to promote and advance the Texas winemaking, distilling, and brewing industry across the country. Ken holds certifications from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (WSET) for wine and is a Certified Texas Wine Ambassador. His ability to identify tasting notes and pairings makes him a respected authority within alcohol enthusiast circles. When he’s not reviewing the latest craft spirits, you can find Ken playing his guitar, trying to sing, and sipping on a Texas libation.