Woodford Reserve, a name synonymous with excellence in bourbon craftsmanship, has once again set the spirits world abuzz with their latest revelation, the Fall 2023 Master's Collection: Sonoma Triple Finish. This bourbon, a true masterpiece, represents a rich blend of tradition and innovation, a product of the creative genius of Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall.
In the world of whiskey, experimentation and exploration are the cornerstones of progress. Woodford Reserve, in its relentless pursuit of excellence, has consistently pushed the boundaries of what bourbon can be. The 2023 Master’s Collection release is a testament to this unwavering commitment.
This captivating bourbon, Sonoma Triple Finish, emerges from a journey that began nearly a decade ago. Woodford Reserve ventured into uncharted territory in 2014, releasing the world's first Pinot Noir finished Kentucky Bourbon - the Sonoma-Cutrer Pinot Finish. It was a revelation, with prominent notes of big, bold red and dried fruit flavors, intertwined with dark chocolate and hints of baking spices. In 2016, they followed up with another groundbreaking creation, the first-ever American Brandy Cask finished Bourbon, further expanding the boundaries of bourbon production. These creations, with their rich and distinctive flavors, caught the attention of the whiskey world.
But the story didn't end there. Woodford Reserve recognized the potential of this revolutionary approach, as wineries began to use used Woodford Reserve barrels for aging red wines, birthing a new "Bourbon Barrel Aged" genre in the wine world. These wines displayed tantalizing characteristics, featuring rich vanilla and caramel notes, often mirroring the flavor profiles of fine bourbons.
Elizabeth McCall, the visionary behind Sonoma Triple Finish, saw the opportunity to bridge the gap between bourbon and wine in a way that had never been explored before. Her vision led to the birth of a truly unique blend, a marriage of whiskey and wine that would challenge conventions and redefine what was possible in the world of spirits.
The Sonoma Triple Finish is not just a bourbon; it's a work of art. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, it combines Woodford Reserve's Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey with the essence of Sonoma County. This process involves finishing Woodford Reserve in Sonoma County wine barrels that had originally been used to mature Woodford Reserve itself, thus creating a remarkable synergy.
The result is an unparalleled sensory experience. The bourbon shines with a burnt sienna color, a visual promise of the flavor extravaganza to come. As you bring it to your nose, the aromas are captivating: vanilla and cinnamon dusted grilled pineapple slices intermingle with the alluring fragrance of red plum fruit. It's a prelude to the symphony of flavors that awaits.
When the liquid touches your lips, you're greeted by a lush wave of vine and red fruit, gently warmed with rich vanilla bean and oak notes. It's a sensory journey through layers of complexity and depth, a testament to the artistry of the Master Distiller.
And the journey doesn't end there. The finish is equally exquisite. As you savor the last drops, long oak and red grape tannins linger on your palate, leaving an indelible mark, a reminder of the extraordinary craftsmanship that went into creating Sonoma Triple Finish.
This remarkable creation is available at Woodford Reserve Distillery for $149.99, but it comes in limited quantities. If you're fortunate enough to secure a bottle, you'll be among the privileged few who can experience this groundbreaking fusion of bourbon and wine. And for those outside the distillery, fear not; select retailers globally will carry this exceptional whiskey, ensuring that its impact will be felt worldwide.
In an industry where tradition meets innovation, Sonoma Triple Finish is the embodiment of both. Woodford Reserve has once again proven that they are at the forefront of redefining the whiskey landscape, inspiring us to savor the endless possibilities that the world of spirits has to offer. Elizabeth McCall's masterpiece is a testament to the fact that the journey of whiskey evolution has no final destination - it's an ever-evolving odyssey of flavor, craft, and imagination.
About Woodford Reserve Distillery
Woodford Reserve is an esteemed American whiskey brand renowned for its commitment to producing premium, small-batch bourbon. The distillery is located in the heart of Kentucky's bourbon country, in Versailles, Kentucky, and is part of the Brown-Forman Corporation, a well-established and respected producer of alcoholic beverages. Woodford Reserve is often referred to as "the official bourbon of the Kentucky Derby," cementing its connection to the traditions and culture of the region.
One of the distinctive features of Woodford Reserve is its dedication to preserving and celebrating the rich heritage of bourbon production. The distillery is located on the historic Woodford Reserve Distillery site, which has a history dating back to the 18th century. This sense of tradition is evident in the picturesque setting, with charming stone buildings, lush landscapes, and scenic views of the Kentucky countryside.
Woodford Reserve places a strong emphasis on crafting its bourbon in small batches to ensure quality and consistency. Their copper pot stills, combined with a unique mash bill and fermentation process, produce a bourbon with a balanced and complex flavor profile. The resulting whiskey is known for its rich, full-bodied taste, featuring notes of dried fruit, vanilla, and toasted oak, with a long and warm finish.
The distillery offers tours and tastings to provide visitors with an immersive experience in the art of bourbon-making. These tours allow guests to explore the various stages of production, from mashing and fermentation to distillation and aging in oak barrels. The picturesque setting, combined with the educational aspect of the tours, makes it a popular destination for bourbon enthusiasts and those seeking to learn more about the bourbon-making process.
Woodford Reserve produces a range of expressions, including their flagship Woodford Reserve Bourbon, as well as limited-edition releases and special expressions. The distillery's commitment to craftsmanship, attention to detail, and reverence for tradition have made it a respected and sought-after name in the world of American whiskey, enjoyed by connoisseurs and whiskey aficionados alike.
