Woodford Reserve has long been a name synonymous with quality in the world of whiskey, and their latest release is no exception. The distillery recently unveiled a new addition to its celebrated Distillery Series: the Tawny Port Finish, a unique blend of bourbon and rye whiskeys with a portion finished in tawny port barrels. This limited-edition expression, crafted under the watchful eye of Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall, is turning heads for its innovative approach to blending and maturation. Available in select Kentucky retailers and at the Woodford Reserve Distillery starting May 20, 2025, this whiskey is a must-try for enthusiasts and collectors alike. With only 375-ml bottles priced at $64.99 and a limited supply, it’s a release that demands attention before it disappears from shelves.
The Distillery Series, which began in 2015 with the release of the now widely available Double Double Oaked, is Woodford Reserve’s playground for experimentation. It’s where the distillery pushes the boundaries of traditional whiskey-making, exploring new flavors and techniques to create something truly special. Over the past decade, the series has introduced intriguing expressions like the 5 Malt Whiskey, Brandy Cask Finish, Toasted Oak Oat Grain, and Chocolate Malt Whisper. Each release showcases the distillery’s commitment to innovation, and the Tawny Port Finish is no different. According to McCall, this expression is a testament to the distillery’s skill in blending rye and bourbon whiskeys while experimenting with unique barrel finishes. The result is a whiskey that’s rich, complex, and layered with flavors that linger long after the first sip.
What sets the Tawny Port Finish apart is its composition. The whiskey is a carefully crafted blend of rye, bourbon, and a portion of bourbon that has been finished in tawny port barrels. These barrels, known for imparting delicate wood and concentrated fruit notes, add a distinctive character to the whiskey. The charred oak barrels used in the aging process further enhance the flavor, creating a balance of decadence and complexity. While Woodford Reserve hasn’t disclosed the exact proportions of the blend, the inclusion of tawny port-finished bourbon adds a layer of sophistication that makes this release stand out in the crowded whiskey market.
Bottled at 90.4 proof, the same strength as Woodford Reserve’s core bourbon offering, the Tawny Port Finish delivers a sensory experience that’s both familiar and refreshingly new. On the nose, it carries the classic Woodford Reserve profile—think warm, inviting notes with a subtle kick of black pepper spice from the rye component. The palate, however, takes a delightful turn. Sippers can expect a symphony of flavors, including cinnamon, cherry, caramel, baked pecans, salted dark chocolate, and rum-soaked raisins. These notes weave together to create a whiskey that’s bold yet balanced, with the port finish adding a fruity depth that complements the traditional bourbon and rye characteristics. It’s a whiskey that invites you to savor each sip, revealing new layers with every taste.
This isn’t the first time Woodford Reserve has ventured into blending different whiskey styles. Their 2024 Master’s Collection, for instance, combined bourbon, rye, and wheat whiskeys finished in Madeira casks, showcasing their knack for creative blending. The Tawny Port Finish, however, takes this experimentation to a new level by incorporating the unique influence of tawny port barrels. This approach aligns with a growing trend in the whiskey world, where distilleries like High West, TX Whiskey, and Knob Creek have also explored bourbon-rye blends. High West’s annual Bourye expression, TX Whiskey’s Lonestar Traditions, and Knob Creek’s Bourbon x Rye Blended are notable examples, but Woodford’s use of tawny port barrels sets its release apart, offering a fresh take on the trend.
The Tawny Port Finish is available in smaller 375-ml bottles, making it a perfect addition to any whiskey lover’s collection. Priced at a suggested retail of $64.99, it’s a premium offering that reflects its limited-edition status. Fans can find it at the Woodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, Kentucky, or at select retailers across the state. For those in Kentucky, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Nebraska, or Washington, D.C., the whiskey is also available for purchase through the distillery’s online store at shop.woodfordreserve.com. Given the limited nature of the release, it’s likely to sell out quickly, with some bottles potentially appearing on the secondary market in the weeks following the launch. For those who miss out, Woodford Reserve’s core lineup, including their classic bourbon and rye whiskeys, remains available through retailers like ReserveBar.
The Tawny Port Finish is more than just a whiskey; it’s a celebration of Woodford Reserve’s commitment to craftsmanship and innovation. By blending rye and bourbon with the unique influence of tawny port barrels, the distillery has created a whiskey that’s both approachable and complex, appealing to both seasoned connoisseurs and newcomers to the world of whiskey. Its rich flavor profile, combined with the exclusivity of the Distillery Series, makes it a standout release in 2025. Whether you’re sipping it neat, on the rocks, or sharing it with friends, this whiskey promises a memorable experience that captures the essence of Woodford Reserve’s creative spirit.
For those eager to explore more of what Woodford Reserve has to offer, the distillery’s website, www.woodfordreserve.com, provides a wealth of information on the Distillery Series and their broader portfolio. From their classic bourbon to their innovative limited releases, Woodford Reserve continues to set the standard for American whiskey. The Tawny Port Finish is a shining example of why the distillery remains a favorite among whiskey lovers, and it’s a release that’s sure to spark conversation among enthusiasts for years to come.
