When it comes to the world of whiskey, there are many renowned brands that have captured the hearts and palates of whiskey enthusiasts. Two such brands that often raise questions among whiskey aficionados are Woodford Reserve and Old Forester. Both whiskies have their own unique qualities and loyal followings, but is there any connection between these two iconic brands? Let’s delve into the ownership structure to find out.
The Ownership of Woodford Reserve and Old Forester
In order to understand the relationship between Woodford Reserve and Old Forester, we need to take a closer look at the companies behind these brands. Brown-Forman Corporation is a leading spirits and wine company that has been in existence for over 150 years.
Within the Brown-Forman portfolio, you will find a wide variety of well-known brands, including Old Forester, Woodford Reserve, and Jack Daniels, to name just a few. Brown-Forman prides itself on being a company with a rich history and a dedication to producing high-quality spirits.
Old Forester: A Legacy of Excellence
Old Forester holds a special place in the world of bourbon as it is known to be America’s first bottled bourbon. With a history stretching back to 1870, this brand has been producing exceptional bourbons for over a century.
As part of the Brown-Forman family, Old Forester continues to thrive, staying true to its traditional methods of production while also innovating to meet the demands of modern whiskey enthusiasts.
Woodford Reserve: An Emblem of Craftsmanship
Woodford Reserve, on the other hand, is a relatively newer player in the whiskey world. Established in 1996, it has quickly risen to prominence with its focus on craftsmanship and creating uniquely flavorful spirits.
Under the ownership of Brown-Forman, Woodford Reserve has gained a reputation for producing premium small-batch bourbon and has garnered numerous awards and accolades for its exceptional quality.
Crossing Paths of Ownership
While both Old Forester and Woodford Reserve are owned by Brown-Forman Corporation, it’s important to note that they are distinct brands with their own identities and production methods.
Although they may share the same parent company, Old Forester and Woodford Reserve operate independently, ensuring that each brand maintains its unique character, flavor profiles, and loyal following.
Preserving Individuality
One might wonder if there are any similarities or shared production techniques between Woodford Reserve and Old Forester due to their common ownership. However, as independent brands, they pride themselves on maintaining their distinct characteristics.
Old Forester meticulously crafts its bourbons using a unique fermentation process and a proprietary yeast strain, resulting in bold and flavorful spirits that showcase the brand’s heritage. Woodford Reserve, on the other hand, focuses on a meticulous distillation process and utilizes a variety of barrel types to achieve its own distinct flavor profile.
The Appreciation of Diversity
The fact that both Old Forester and Woodford Reserve are part of the Brown-Forman family adds to the rich diversity of whiskies offered by the company. Each brand has its own loyal following, catering to different palates and preferences.
By maintaining separate production processes and flavor profiles, Brown-Forman is able to satisfy a wider range of whiskey enthusiasts, ensuring that there is something for everyone within their portfolio.

Conclusion
In conclusion, while Woodford Reserve and Old Forester are indeed owned by the same company, Brown-Forman Corporation, they remain distinct brands with their own unique identities, histories, and production methods. Each brand has earned its place within the whiskey industry, delighting connoisseurs around the world with their exceptional bourbons.
So, the next time you sip on a glass of Woodford Reserve or Old Forester, you can appreciate the craftsmanship and expertise that goes into creating each of these remarkable whiskies, while also acknowledging their individuality within the Brown-Forman family.