Woodford Reserve has once again delighted bourbon enthusiasts with a new limited-edition release as part of its annual Distillery Series. The 2024 Toasted Bourbon, which hit the shelves on May 21, is a testament to the serendipitous nature of innovation in the world of whiskey. This unique bourbon, born out of a happy accident, combines the rich flavors of Woodford Reserve’s classic Bourbon with the distinctive characteristics of their Double Oaked variety, creating a truly one-of-a-kind spirit.
Image credit: Woodford Reserve
A Fortunate Mistake
The story of Woodford Reserve’s Toasted Bourbon begins in 2017 with an unexpected delivery. The distillery received a batch of Double Oaked barrels by mistake. Unlike standard bourbon barrels, which are lightly toasted and heavily charred to develop a specific flavor profile, Double Oaked barrels undergo a different process. They are heavily toasted and lightly charred, which imparts a unique set of flavors to the whiskey aged within them.
Unaware of the mix-up, the distillery team filled 18 of these barrels with new-make bourbon distillate. Once the error was discovered, the team faced a choice: discard the batch or let it age and see what developed. Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall opted for the latter, viewing the mistake as an opportunity to explore new territory in bourbon aging.
Aging in Warehouse C
The barrels were moved to the historic Warehouse C at the Woodford Reserve distillery, where they would rest for more than six years. During this time, McCall and her team kept a close eye on the maturation process, eagerly anticipating the results of their inadvertent experiment. The prolonged aging in heavily toasted barrels allowed the bourbon to develop a complex and layered flavor profile, merging the best elements of Woodford Reserve’s traditional and Double Oaked bourbons.
Tasting Notes
The result of this six-year journey is the Toasted Bourbon, a spirit that McCall describes as a delicious fusion of flavors. On the nose, it presents a tantalizing array of aromas, including cinnamon graham cracker, dark cherry, cooked banana, and nutmeg. These inviting scents set the stage for a rich and satisfying tasting experience.
The palate of the Toasted Bourbon is equally impressive. The first sip reveals a harmonious blend of honey and baking spice, providing a warm and comforting flavor that lingers pleasantly. The influence of the heavily toasted barrels is evident in the depth and complexity of the bourbon, making each sip a journey of discovery.
Packaging and Availability
The Toasted Bourbon is bottled at 90.4 proof (45.2% ABV) and is available in 375ml bottles. With a suggested retail price of $64.99, this limited-edition release offers bourbon enthusiasts a chance to own a piece of Woodford Reserve’s innovative spirit. The Toasted Bourbon was first made available at the distillery itself, where fans could purchase it starting at 9 a.m. on May 21. It will soon be available at select retailers across Kentucky, just in time for Father's Day, making it a perfect gift for bourbon-loving dads.
The Vision of Elizabeth McCall
Image credit: Woodford Reserve
Elizabeth McCall, who has been instrumental in crafting some of Woodford Reserve’s most beloved releases, is particularly proud of the Toasted Bourbon. Her decision to keep and monitor the mistakenly filled barrels has paid off in a big way, resulting in a bourbon that showcases the creativity and expertise of the Woodford Reserve team. McCall’s willingness to embrace the unexpected and turn a potential setback into an opportunity exemplifies the innovative spirit that has made Woodford Reserve a respected name in the world of bourbon.
A New Chapter in the Distillery Series
The Toasted Bourbon joins a distinguished lineup of limited-edition releases in Woodford Reserve’s Distillery Series. Each year, this series offers bourbon enthusiasts a chance to experience unique and experimental expressions that push the boundaries of traditional bourbon making. The Toasted Bourbon is no exception, standing out as a testament to the benefits of experimentation and the surprising paths it can lead to.
Conclusion
Woodford Reserve’s 2024 Toasted Bourbon is a celebration of the unexpected. From its accidental inception to its carefully monitored aging process, this bourbon embodies the spirit of innovation and exploration that defines Woodford Reserve. With its rich and complex flavor profile, it offers a new and exciting experience for bourbon lovers, whether they are long-time fans of the distillery or newcomers looking to discover something special.
As Elizabeth McCall and her team at Woodford Reserve release this remarkable bourbon to the world, they invite us all to share in the fruits of their happy accident. The Toasted Bourbon is more than just a drink; it’s a story of chance, patience, and the delicious rewards that come from embracing the unknown.
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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.
