Here you have the oldest of all Beam family whiskeys. Established in 1810 by the upright, forward-thinking Abraham Overholt, his namesake whiskey is recognized today as the oldest enduring American Rye in the United States. Made and sold without interruption, this whiskey has seen a thing or two over the centuries. Bottled with a commitment to quality exemplified by an assertive Rye taste, Overholt is a powerful ally to bartenders who prefer it for their cocktails. At one time, it was the most popular spirit in the country. One the Beam family took note of and vowed to continue distilling the way Abraham wanted: proudly true to its industrious spirit.

In 1870, our founder George Garvin Brown revolutionized the industry by sealing Bourbon in a glass bottle for the first time. Five generations and nearly 150 years later, we are proud to introduce the first Kentucky Straight Rye Whisky from The First Bottled Bourbon™. A historic recipe, acquired in 1940 by Owsley Brown I, Old Forester Rye features a mash bill of 65% Rye, 20% Malted Barley, and 15% Corn. Such a high proportion of barley allows for a fully natural fermentation process, forgoing the need for artificial enzymes commonly found in high rye mash bills. Additionally, a generous percentage of malt yields a unique floral character, balancing the sharp, brisk spice of the rye grain. Continuing our legacy of quality and consistency, Old Forester uses its own proprietary yeast strain, produces every barrel, and distills every drop. At 100 proof, Old Forester Rye plays beautifully in a cocktail but also stands up boldly on its own.