Old Forester 1870 - Original Batch vs Rock Oyster Sherry Edition

Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Old Forester 1870 - Original BatchRock Oyster Sherry Edition
DistilleryOld ForesterRock Island
RegionIsland
CountryAmericaScotland
TypeBourbonBlended Malt
ABV45%46.8%
AgeNASNAS
Price£49.9£44.5
Rating4.00/55.00/5

Old Forester 1870 - Original Batch

Smoke0/100
Sweetness69/100
Beginner80/100
Value80/100

Rock Oyster Sherry Edition

Smoke64/100
Sweetness55/100
Beginner50/100
Value100/100

Old Forester 1870 - Original Batch

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Rock Oyster Sherry Edition

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Rock Oyster Sherry Edition is rated higher (5.00 vs 4.00).

Rock Oyster Sherry Edition is better value at £45 vs £50.

For beginners: Old Forester 1870 - Original Batch is more approachable (80/100 beginner score).

Old Forester 1870 - Original Batch

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers

Cons

  • More expensive (£49.9 vs £44.5)
  • Lower community rating (4.0 vs 5.0)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Rock Oyster Sherry Edition

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More affordable (£44.5 vs £49.9)

Cons

  • Niche style — may not suit all palates

Who should buy Old?

Old Forester 1870 - Original Batch is an ideal first whisky — sweet, approachable, and widely available. It's a great gift and a safe choice for anyone new to whisky or who prefers lighter, friendlier drams.

Who should buy Rock?

Rock Oyster Sherry Edition suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Island character.

Tasting notes

Only Old Forester 1870 - Original Batch

VanillaHoneyChocolateToastedNew Wood

Only Rock Oyster Sherry Edition

SherriedSmokeyCitricDried Fruit

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