The bourbon world is buzzing with anticipation as one of the year's most sought-after releases hits shelves. On January 14, 2026, Woodford Reserve will make its Double Double Oaked bourbon available to enthusiasts across the country, marking a significant shift in distribution strategy for this exceptional spirit.
For the first time in its history, this limited release will be available not only at the Woodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, Kentucky, but also at select retailers nationwide. This expansion represents a major opportunity for collectors and bourbon lovers who previously had to make the pilgrimage to Kentucky to secure a bottle.
The Art of Double Double Oaking
What sets this bourbon apart is right there in its name. The Double Double Oaked undergoes an extraordinary aging process that pushes the boundaries of traditional whiskey making. After spending five to seven years in its first barrel, the bourbon doesn't stop there. It's transferred to a second barrel—one that's been heavily toasted and lightly charred—where it rests for up to two additional years.
This extended aging process creates a flavor profile that stands distinctly apart from standard offerings. The second barrel imparts a smoother, spicier character that develops complexity layers most bourbons simply can't achieve. It's this meticulous approach that has made the Double Double Oaked one of the most coveted bottles in the whiskey world.
Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall has been the driving force behind this creation. "This handcrafted double-barreled bourbon is beloved," said McCall in the company's press release. "Resting 5-7 years in the first barrel, then up to two years in a second barrel, this liquid features extraordinary flavor notes. It is unexpected and complex."
Part of a Legacy Series
The Double Double Oaked represents more than just a special release—it's part of Woodford Reserve's prestigious Distillery Series, which launched in 2015. Each bottle in this collection showcases the distillery's commitment to experimentation and innovation. Under McCall's guidance, the series has become known for spirits that challenge conventional whiskey-making wisdom while maintaining the quality standards Woodford Reserve has built its reputation on.
These releases serve as a creative playground where the boundaries of what bourbon can be are continuously tested and expanded. The Double Double Oaked stands as perhaps the most successful experiment in this ongoing series.
The Details That Matter
Coming in at 90.4 proof, the Double Double Oaked strikes a balance between approachability and intensity. The $199.99 price tag reflects both the extensive aging process and the limited nature of the release. While not cheap by any measure, serious bourbon enthusiasts understand that the unique production method and scarcity justify the investment.
At the distillery itself, doors will open at 10 a.m. ET on release day, with bottles available while supplies last. The distillery has implemented a two-bottle purchase limit per guest, a common practice designed to give more people a chance to secure this rare bourbon. However, given the popularity of previous releases, those hoping to purchase at the source should plan to arrive early.
For those unable to make the trip to Kentucky, the nationwide retail release offers an alternative path to acquisition. The catch? History suggests these bottles won't stay on shelves long. Previous limited releases from Woodford Reserve's Distillery Series have been known to sell out within hours of becoming available. The combination of limited production, high demand, and the bourbon boom means hesitation often results in disappointment.
A Sensory Experience
The folks at Woodford Reserve have provided detailed tasting notes that paint a picture of what awaits inside each bottle. The bourbon presents with an appearance reminiscent of roasted coffee beans—a deep, rich color that hints at the intensive barrel aging it has undergone.
The nose delivers a robust medley that dominates from the moment the bottle is opened. Rich maple syrup mingles with dark butterscotch and brittle caramel. Bittersweet chocolate and burnt marshmallow add depth, while sweet hickory smoke notes provide an aromatic foundation that ties everything together.
On the palate, the bourbon reveals its fruit-forward character. Rich dried cherry and cranberry notes swim through blackberry jam, creating a depth that's brightened by hints of ripe apple. As the bourbon opens up, chai tea and warming clove notes emerge, adding a spicy complexity that develops and evolves with each sip.
The finish proves warm and drying, with a lingering clove character that provides a satisfying conclusion to the tasting experience. It's this combination of sweetness, fruit, spice, and warmth that makes the Double Double Oaked such a distinctive bourbon.
The Hunt Begins
For bourbon collectors and enthusiasts, tomorrow represents more than just another release day—it's an opportunity to secure a bottle that represents the pinnacle of Woodford Reserve's craftsmanship. The expanded distribution may provide more access points than previous years, but the fundamental challenge remains: limited supply meeting high demand.
Those planning to pursue a bottle would be wise to have a strategy in place. Calling ahead to local retailers to confirm allocation, arriving early at the distillery, or being ready online when retailers begin their sales could make the difference between success and disappointment. The bourbon community is well-organized and passionate, which means competition will be fierce.
The Double Double Oaked represents what happens when a respected distillery commits to pushing boundaries. It's not about gimmicks or marketing hype—it's about a genuine exploration of what extended barrel aging can accomplish. The result is a bourbon that rewards patience, both in its creation and in the hunt to acquire it.
For more information about availability and purchasing options, those interested can visit the company's website. But when it comes to actually securing a bottle, tomorrow will be a test of preparation, persistence, and perhaps a bit of luck.
Whether this bourbon ends up on a shelf as a prized collectible or gets opened to share with friends over meaningful conversation, one thing is certain: the Woodford Reserve Double Double Oaked represents bourbon craftsmanship at its finest. The question now is simply who will be fortunate enough to experience it firsthand.
