Old Forester Birthday Bourbon — 2026 Limited Bottling
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Aged 11 Years
Released every year around September 2nd to honor the birthday of founder George Garvin Brown, Old Forester Birthday Bourbon is one of the most anticipated annual releases in bourbon. The 2026 edition is barrelled from 2015 stock, carrying a full 11-year age statement, and bottled at 87 proof (46.5% ABV) as a limited, single-year release that won't be repeated.
Each year's Birthday Bourbon is drawn from barrels selected to showcase the character of that specific vintage, giving the release its own distinct profile from year to year even as the Old Forester house style carries through. Produced at the Old Forester Distilling Co. in Louisville, Kentucky, this 700mL bottling is a genuine collector's item for bourbon enthusiasts who look forward to the release every fall.
Why Collectors Seek This Out
Annual limited release honoring founder George Garvin Brown's birthday
Full 11-year age statement, barrelled in 2015
Bottled at 87 proof (46.5% ABV)
Each year's batch is distinct — a true single-vintage bourbon release
One of the most sought-after annual bourbon releases, with strong secondary market demand
Product Details
Type
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky
Age
11 Years
Barrelled
2015
Limited Bottling
2026
Size
700mL
Proof / ABV
87 Proof (46.5% Alc. Vol.)
Distillery
Old Forester Distilling Co., Louisville, Kentucky
Please drink responsibly. Must be 21+ to purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called "Birthday Bourbon"?
Old Forester releases Birthday Bourbon annually to commemorate the birthday of founder George Garvin Brown, who established the brand in 1870. Each year's release is drawn from barrels selected to honor that tradition.
How old is the 2026 release?
The 2026 Birthday Bourbon carries an 11-year age statement, having been barrelled in 2015.
Does Birthday Bourbon taste the same every year?
No. Each year's release is selected from a distinct set of barrels, so proof, age, and flavor profile can vary from year to year even though the release carries the same name and tradition.
Why is this bottle size 700mL instead of 750mL?
Old Forester Birthday Bourbon is bottled at 700mL, a size specific to this annual release rather than the standard 750mL most spirits are bottled at.
Is this a limited release?
Yes. Birthday Bourbon is released once a year in limited quantity, and the 2026 bottling will not be repeated once it sells out.