Old Forester has unveiled the latest edition to its 117 Series: Whiskey Row Fire. The new whiskey honors the 7th anniversary of the fire on Whiskey Row that nearly destroyed the historic block.
On July 7, 2015, a four-alarm fire ravaged the buildings on historic Whiskey Row in downtown Louisville. Teams of brave Louisville first responders were able to contain and extinguish the catastrophe, preserving the site for the Old Forester Distillery at 117/119 West Main. The block is now home to restaurants, bars, a hotel and other businesses – and has become a tourist destination.
“I remember that day and that fire vividly,” said Louisville Fire Chief Greg Frederick. “We are extremely proud of our brave firefighters who risked their lives and saved the block.”
In 2020, men and women of Louisville Fire, many of whom fought the blaze, selected eight single barrels from a lot filled the same day they extinguished the fire. All 8 barrels sold out in two days and proceeds were donated to the Louisville Firefighter Disaster Fund.
The remainder of the barrels filled that day slumbered an additional two years in the warehouse and are now batched together to create the 117 Series – Fireman Barrels. At nearly 7 years old – these barrels are fully mature and wise in character.
On the nose, aromas of honey comb, malt and marzipan mingle with delicate cedar and fresh oak notes atop cherries laced with vanilla cream. The palate delivers brown sugar, marzipan, vanilla, and honey alongside a mix of berry fruit. The finish features long notes of honey and vanilla, which linger with a touch of fruit.
Bottled at 50% ABV, Old Forester Whiskey Row Fire is available at the retail shop at Old Forester Distilling Co. for $59.99 in limited quantities. For more information, head over to the distillery’s official website.
Old Forester launched The 117 Series in April 2021 with the release of the High Angels’ Share. That August it debuted the second release in the collection, Warehouse K bourbon, The most recent release in the collection, 1910 Extra Old, hit shelves in February.
