In the realm of fine spirits, Woodford Reserve continues to captivate enthusiasts with its distinguished lineup, spanning bourbon, rye, wheat, and malt expressions. The distillery, nestled in the heart of Kentucky, periodically unveils limited-edition treasures, and the latest gem to grace the shelves is the much-anticipated return of the exclusive Double Double Oaked Bourbon.
First introduced as part of the Distillery Series in 2015, the Double Double Oaked Bourbon has become a perennial favorite, making sporadic appearances in subsequent years. This unique expression is an elevated rendition of the core Double Oaked, renowned for its dual maturation process. The bourbon embarks on a journey, starting in new charred oak barrels before luxuriating in a second set of heavily toasted and lightly charred oak barrels, imparting an additional layer of complexity.
Taking it a step further, the Woodford Reserve Double Double Oaked undergoes a prolonged maturation period by spending an extra year in the second set of barrels. The result is a whiskey that tantalizes the palate with a slightly spicier flavor profile than its predecessor. Bottled at 90.4 proof, this liquid symphony boasts tasting notes that dance with dried cherry, cranberry, blackberry jam, ripe apple, chai tea, and clove spice, creating an orchestra of sensory delights.
For enthusiasts eager to acquire this liquid masterpiece, the journey might prove challenging. Packaged in smaller 375-ml bottles with a suggested retail price of $80, the Double Double Oaked Bourbon is exclusively available at the Woodford Reserve Distillery gift shop. A strict limit of two bottles per customer heightens the exclusivity. Those within the Bluegrass State can also seek out this elusive gem at select retailers.
Beyond the borders of Kentucky, aficionados may navigate the secondary market, albeit with a willingness to part with a considerable sum, approximately a grand, for a previous vintage. Alternatively, platforms like ReserveBar offer the original Double Oaked and other Woodford expressions, providing a sanctuary for whiskey connoisseurs.
Woodford Reserve's Master Distiller, Elizabeth McCall, expresses her enthusiasm for the return of this treasured release. McCall, who assumed the prestigious role in February 2023, has overseen several distinctive launches, showcasing her commitment to pushing the boundaries of flavor. The Double Double Oaked, with its suggested retail price of $79.99 for a 375-milliliter bottle, offers a sensory experience that includes the delightful interplay of burnt marshmallows, dried cherry, and bittersweet chocolate.
This release follows the success of Woodford's Toasted Oak Four Grain, a blend of bourbon, rye, wheat, and malt whiskeys, and the fall edition of the Master's Collection, paying homage to Northern California's wineries. Woodford Reserve continues to define itself as a purveyor of not just whiskey but an embodiment of craftsmanship and innovation.
As the curtains rise on the Double Double Oaked Bourbon, enthusiasts embark on a quest to savor the culmination of Woodford Reserve's dedication to craft and flavor. This limited-edition elixir stands as a testament to the distillery's unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of tradition, offering a sensory journey that transcends the ordinary. For those fortunate enough to secure a bottle, the experience promises to be nothing short of extraordinary, inviting whiskey aficionados to revel in the symphony of tastes that define Woodford Reserve's Double Double Oaked Bourbon.
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About Woodford Reserve
Woodford Reserve is a renowned bourbon whiskey brand with a rich history rooted in Kentucky's bourbon tradition. The distillery, located in Versailles, Kentucky, is known for its commitment to crafting high-quality, small-batch bourbon using traditional methods. Woodford Reserve is part of the Brown-Forman Corporation, a company with a long-standing legacy in the spirits industry.
One distinctive aspect of Woodford Reserve is its dedication to the art and science of bourbon-making. The brand employs copper pot stills and a combination of pot and column stills to produce a carefully crafted mash bill consisting of corn, rye, and malted barley. The water used in the production process comes from a natural limestone spring on the distillery grounds, contributing to the bourbon's unique character.
Woodford Reserve is known for its meticulous attention to detail, and each step of the production process is conducted with precision. The bourbon undergoes a longer-than-average fermentation period, and the distillation process takes place in traditional copper pot stills. The aging process occurs in new charred oak barrels stored in temperature-controlled warehouses, allowing the bourbon to mature slowly and develop its distinct flavor profile.
The flavor profile of Woodford Reserve bourbon is often characterized by its balance and complexity. Notes of dried fruit, vanilla, toasted oak, and a hint of spice contribute to a well-rounded and sophisticated tasting experience. The brand has expanded its portfolio over the years, introducing expressions such as Woodford Reserve Double Oaked and Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Rye, showcasing its versatility and innovation within the bourbon category.
Woodford Reserve's commitment to craftsmanship and quality has earned it numerous awards and a loyal following among bourbon enthusiasts. The iconic, flask-shaped bottle design and the copper pot still on the label serve as visual representations of the brand's dedication to tradition and excellence. Whether sipped neat, on the rocks, or incorporated into cocktails, Woodford Reserve remains a symbol of Kentucky bourbon craftsmanship and heritage.
