Woodford Reserve has announced a heartwarming limited-edition bourbon release perfectly timed for Father’s Day, named the "Father’s Day Personal Selection." This special collection is a tribute to the bond between fathers and their children, brought to life by the expertise and passion of Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall and her father, Tim O’Neill.
Image credit: Woodford Reserve
Elizabeth McCall, an accomplished figure in the spirits industry, has whiskey in her blood. Her mother was involved in the industry, but it was her father, Tim O’Neill, who first introduced her to the world of bourbon. O’Neill, now retired, has been a lifelong bourbon enthusiast. This personal history and shared love for whiskey set the stage for a unique collaboration between father and daughter at the renowned Woodford Reserve Distillery.
Image credit: Woodford Reserve
Earlier this year, McCall and her father spent an entire day at the distillery working side by side to create this exclusive collection. They meticulously developed seven different two-barrel blends, each tailored to fit their individual taste profiles. The result is a series of bourbons that are not only unique but also deeply personal, reflecting the harmonious blend of two generations' palates and preferences.
Reflecting on the experience, Elizabeth McCall described it as profoundly special. “I brought my Dad to the distillery and put him to work, and it was such a special experience,” she said. “We had a wonderful time creating seven one-of-a-kind bourbons that others can share with their fathers.” This sentiment is echoed by O’Neill, who expressed his excitement and joy at being part of the project. “I’ve always been a bourbon drinker,” he said. “I was very excited when my daughter asked me to join her.”
The "Father’s Day Personal Selection" is a celebration of craftsmanship and familial love, bottled at 90.4 proof (45.2% abv). Each 1-liter bottle is priced at $79.99, a testament to the quality and care that went into its creation. The collection is available for purchase at the Woodford Reserve Distillery and through their online store, with shipping options in states where it is legal, including Kentucky, D.C., Nebraska, New Hampshire, and North Dakota.
This release is not just about the bourbon; it’s about the story behind it. The collaboration between McCall and her father adds a layer of meaning that elevates this collection beyond a simple drink. It’s a tangible representation of shared moments, hard work, and the joy of creating something unique together. For those who purchase a bottle, it’s an opportunity to share in that experience, to toast to the fathers in their own lives with something crafted from the heart.
In the broader context of the bourbon industry, this release stands out for its personal touch and narrative. It highlights the importance of family traditions and the role they play in shaping the passion and dedication of individuals like Elizabeth McCall. By involving her father in the creation process, McCall not only honored her personal heritage but also brought forward a product that resonates with the spirit of Father’s Day.
Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon aficionado or new to the world of whiskey, the "Father’s Day Personal Selection" by Woodford Reserve offers a unique and meaningful addition to any collection. It’s more than just a drink; it’s a celebration of the connections that make life special, captured in a bottle for all to enjoy.
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About Woodford Reserve
Woodford Reserve is a premium bourbon whiskey brand that has earned widespread acclaim for its commitment to craftsmanship, quality, and innovation. Produced by the Brown-Forman Corporation, Woodford Reserve is crafted at the historic Woodford Reserve Distillery located in Versailles, Kentucky. The distillery's roots date back to the late 1700s, making it one of the oldest bourbon distilleries in the United States.
Woodford Reserve is renowned for its meticulous production process, which adheres to traditional bourbon-making techniques while embracing modern innovations. The brand's mash bill consists of a blend of corn, rye, and malted barley, carefully selected to impart a balanced and complex flavor profile to the whiskey. The distillation process takes place in copper pot stills, and the whiskey is aged in new charred oak barrels, allowing it to develop rich flavors and aromas over time.
One of Woodford Reserve's signature expressions is its flagship Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon. This bourbon is characterized by its smoothness, depth of flavor, and notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. In addition to its core range, Woodford Reserve offers a variety of other expressions, including Double Oaked, Rye, and limited-edition releases, showcasing the brand's versatility and creativity.
Woodford Reserve is committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship, implementing practices to minimize its environmental impact and conserve natural resources. The distillery's picturesque grounds and visitor center welcome guests from around the world, offering guided tours and tastings that provide insight into the whiskey-making process and the history of Woodford Reserve.
With its rich heritage, dedication to quality, and innovative spirit, Woodford Reserve has earned numerous awards and accolades, cementing its reputation as one of the premier bourbon brands in the world. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, Woodford Reserve offers a luxurious and unforgettable drinking experience for bourbon enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.
