Distiller Notes
In 1870, George Garvin Brown was the first to seal his whisky, Old Forester, in a glass bottle. To commemorate his birthday, the First Bottled Bourbon annually releases a limited edition, vintage-dated expression: Birthday Bourbon. The September 2nd release marks the 25th limited edition expression. Hand-selected by Master Distiller Emeritus Chris Morris and Assistant Master Distiller Caleb Trigo, this small-batch bourbon offers a unique character and flavor profile that will never be replicated. After showing exceptionally unique character during a tasting panel, the 12-year-old barrels were chosen specifically for Birthday Bourbon. The full allotment of product represents barrels from the same day of production.
The 2025 Birthday Bourbon is presented at 92 proof. In a rare departure from tradition, this year's batch was created without the use of "setback" during fermentation — a standard practice that ensures consistency. Instead, a "sweet mash" process was used, relying solely on freshly-propagated yeast. This anomaly resulted in a silky and sweet flavor profile that shines at 92 proof.
Although Bourbon may be produced anywhere in the United States, it is most commonly associated with Bourbon County, Kentucky, where it has been produced since the late 18th century. Made from a mash bill containing at least 51% corn, the Bourbon Whiskey distillate must be aged in new, charred white oak barrels. Bourbon Whiskeys are bottled at eighty proof (40% abv) or higher and cannot contain any added color or flavor. A versatile spirit that can be sipped neat, with water or on the rocks, it also performs nicely added to cocktails like the Old Fashioned.