Woodford Reserve

According to my sources, Woodford Reserve is triple distilled in copper pot stills. The mash bill contains 10% malted barley, 18% rye 72% corn. The distillery, which can be found in Versailles (Kentucky, USA, obviously not in France) belongs to Brown-Forman. The batches of the Distiller’s Select have some variation, but all are bottled between 42.2% and 43.2%. The one I am trying now is at the lower level.

Very soft and accessible nose on all kinds of fruit like plums, cherries and pears – I was not expecting that last bit – with loads of caramel and some toasted oak up front, while some soft spices and some wood glue join at the back. New leather too. After a few moments it turns a bit floral. Violets. Honey blossoms! I must say, I quite like this.

The body is good. The strength as well. The sweetness kicks in from the get-go – with the caramel in the lead and the fruit in second place – supported by a lovely spiciness. Think cinnamon, nutmeg and a little peppery note. Nice balance.

The finish is not bad either. Medium long, gently spicy with some roasted nuts at the death;

Well, that was a pleasant surprise. And very affordable as well.

Find where to buy Woodford Reserve whisky