Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select: Premium Bourbon

Hey there, bourbon lovers! You ever find yourself sippin’ on some fine Kentucky bourbon and think, “Man, what’s the story behind this stuff?” Well, let me tell you about Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select, the Cadillac of bourbons!

First off, this stuff isn’t bathtub gin. No sir, this is premium stuff, crafted by Brown-Forman, one of the big dogs in the American spirits and wine game. And where does all this magic happen? Right in the heart of Kentucky’s Bourbon Country, my friends, where they take tradition and innovation and mix them together like a cocktail.

Now, let’s talk about the bourbon itself. Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select is a straight bourbon, which means it’s made with at least 51% corn and aged in new charred oak barrels. But these folks do it a bit different. Their mash bill’s has 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% malted barley, giving it a flavor that’ll make your taste buds say, “thank you”.

And they don’t rush this stuff, no siree. It’s aged for at least four years, and you know what’s even cooler? The Master Distiller personally picks out them barrels for bottling. It’s like hand-selecting the perfect Christmas tree, but for bourbon. The result? A smooth, complex, and perfectly balanced spirit that’s won more awards than you can shake a whiskey tumbler at.

History of Woodford Reserve

So, Woodford Reserve, it isn’t some fly-by-night brand. Nope, it’s been gracing our taste buds since 1996, thanks to the fine folks at Brown-Forman. But hold on to your top hats, ’cause the history of this distillery goes way back to the days when folks wore powdered wigs and knee breeches.

Back in 1812, a couple of gents named Oscar Pepper and James Christopher Crow decided to start a little thing called the Old Oscar Pepper Distillery. This is where it all began. Later, it got it was named: Labrot & Graham Distillery.

From Civil War HQ to Bourbon Excellence

But here’s the plot twist: during the Civil War, the Union Army took over the joint, turned it into their HQ and a hospital. After the war, it got a new lease on life thanks to some investors, but then Prohibition came along in 1920, and the distillery had to take an early retirement until 1933. That’s when the Brown-Forman Corporation swooped in to save the day.

In 1941, Leopold Labrot and James Graham took the reins and gave it the Labrot & Graham Distillery name again. This place changed owners more times than a hot potato at a picnic, but in 1993, Brown-Forman snatched it back up and rebranded it as Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select. What a journey!

Today, this distillery’s a National Historic Landmark, sitting pretty in Versailles, Kentucky. They’re doin’ things the old-fashioned way with copper pot stills and triple distillation, mixed in with a pinch of modern know-how.

But let’s get to the good stuff – the flavor. Woodford Reserve is all about that unique taste, and they’ve got five flavor tricks up their sleeve: grain recipe, fermentation, distillation, maturation, and flavoring.

In a nutshell, the Woodford Reserve story is like a fine bourbon itself – aged to perfection, rich in history, and full of flavor. Today, the brand is known for its premium bourbon and commitment to quality, tradition, and innovation.

Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select

Well, well, well, look who’s got a taste for the good stuff! If you’re on the hunt for a bourbon that’s smoother than a jazz sax solo, richer than a chocolate lava cake, and bursting with flavor like a fireworks show on the Fourth of July, then Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select is your golden ticket.

This is Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey that’s been triple distilled in pot stills. That’s right, they’re taking a unique approach compared to most bourbons out there, which are usually doing their thing in column stills. And you know what that means? More depth of flavor than a Sherlock Holmes novel, resulting in a sophisticated symphony of taste that’ll make your taste buds do the cha-cha.

Now, let’s talk about aging. This beauty’s been resting in new charred oak barrels for a minimum of four years, and that’s what gives it that distinctive amber hue. When you stick your nose in the glass, you’re in for a treat. It’s like a bouquet of caramel, maple, and floral notes, with a hint of brown sugar, toffee, vanilla, citrus, light oak, and a subtle corn sweetness sneaking in later.

But that’s not all, folks! When it hits your palate, you’ll be on a flavor rollercoaster. Get ready for a wild ride with dried fruit, vanilla, honey, and just the right amount of spice. This bourbon’s got a punch too, with an ABV of 45.2%, and it won’t break the bank either, priced around $30 bucks. That’s like getting a front-row ticket to a rock concert for the price of a movie ticket.

You can enjoy this beauty neat or on the rocks, savoring every drop like it’s a fine wine. But hey, if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, throw it into classic bourbon cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan, and watch the magic happen.

So, if you’re already a Woodford Reserve fan, you’re gonna fall head over heels for the Distiller’s Select. It’s like the top-rated American whiskey/bourbon that’s been hitting the gym and is now smooth, full-bodied, and packed with more flavor than a chili cook-off.

Tasting Notes and Flavor Profile

Tasting Notes
Nose: vanilla, caramel, oak
Palate: honey, caramel, vanilla, spicy kick from rye
Finish: long, warm, smoky, toasted oak

 

 

 

 

 

Alright, folks, let’s talk about Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select. This bourbon isn’t messing around when it comes to flavor. They’ve got this mash bill that’s like a well-orchestrated band – 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% malted barley, all coming together to create a smooth, balanced bourbon with a medium body.

Now, when you stick your nose in that glass, get ready for a symphony of scents – vanilla, caramel, and oak. It’s like a fancy dessert mixed with a bit of nature. But the real magic happens when you take that first sip. It’s like a journey, man.

You start off with this sweet wave of honey, caramel, and vanilla washing over your taste buds. It’s like Grandma’s homemade candy but with a kick. And just when you think it’s all sweetness, bam! The rye jumps in and adds that spicy twist. It’s like a surprise guest at a party, and it’s bringing the heat.

The finish? Oh, it’s a long and warm embrace, like your favorite blanket on a cold winter’s night. There’s even a hint of smokiness and toasted oak to send you off into bourbon bliss.

Now, let’s talk about the look of this beauty. It’s got this stunning copper color, and you can thank those charred oak barrels for that. They age this bourbon for a minimum of four years, letting it soak up all those rich flavors and develop that unique profile.

So, whether you’re a seasoned bourbon aficionado or just starting to dip your toes into the world of bourbon, Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select is the real deal. It’s got complexity that’ll keep the pros happy and a smoothness that’ll make the newcomers feel right at home. Whether you’re sipping it neat or mixing it into a classic cocktail, this bourbon is here to make your taste buds do a little victory dance.

 

Price and Availability

Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select, the bourbon that’s making waves across the good ol’ U.S. of A. and beyond. Now, I know you’re wondering, “How much is this liquid gold going set you back?” Well, hold onto your wallets, because prices can vary depending on where you’re at. But generally, you’re looking at around $30 to $60 bucks for a 750ml bottle.

Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select, the bourbon that’s making waves across the good ol’ U.S. of A. and beyond. Now, I know you’re wondering, “How much is this liquid gold going set you back?” Well, hold onto your wallets, because prices can vary depending on where you’re at. But generally, you’re looking at around $30 to $60 bucks for a 750ml bottle.

Now, if you’re like me, always on the hunt for a deal, you might want hit up your local liquor store or jump online to places like Total Wine & More or Caskers. These guys often have discounts going on, especially when it’s party time during the holidays.

And speaking of online, you can even score yourself some Woodford Reserve on e-commerce giants like Amazon and Drizly. Just keep in mind, the price and availability might do a little dance depending on where you’re hanging your hat and who’s selling it.

But here’s the bottom line, my friend – Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select is a top-shelf bourbon that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey expert or just lookin’ for a quality sipper, this bourbon’s got your back.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Alright, let’s talk about enjoying some Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select, ’cause we’re not just here to sip it, we’re here to savor it, right? So, how do you make the most out of this delicious bourbon? Let me drop some knowledge on you.

First things first, temperature matters. You don’t wanna serve this beauty ice-cold ’cause it’ll just dilute those amazing flavors and aromas. Room temperature or slightly chilled is the way to go. Ice? Nah, keep that for your lemonade.

When it comes to enjoying Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select, there are many ways to serve and pair this delicious bourbon. Here are some suggestions to help you get the most out of your experience:

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the flavors and aromas of this bourbon, consider serving it in a:

1. Glencairn Glass: It’s like the tuxedo of bourbon glasses, designed to concentrate those delightful aromas at the top, enhancing the sensory experience.
2. Snifter: It’s like the cousin of the Glencairn, and the wide bowl will warm up your bourbon just right, unlocking even more of those delicious smells.

These type of glass is designed to capture the aromas of the bourbon, allowing you to fully appreciate its complexity.

You can find glasses like these at Advanced Mixology.

Pairing Suggestions:

But wait, there’s more! Let’s talk about what you can pair this bourbon with.

Aged Parmesan cheese: With its nutty, salty goodness, is like the buddy that Woodford Reserve has been waiting for. They complement each other like two old pals.

Chocolate :And if you’re a chocolate lover, dark chocolate is the way to go. It’s like a flavor explosion when paired with the boldness of this bourbon.

Grilled Meats: But don’t stop there, fire up the grill and throw on some meats. The smoky, charred flavors from grilled meats go hand in hand with the oaky, spicy goodness of Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select. It’s like a match made in BBQ heaven.

Spicy Foods: And if you’re into spicy foods like barbecue or chili, this bourbon’s sweet and spicy notes will dance with those flavors like nobody’s business.

But hey, if you’re feeling a bit adventurous and wanna mix things up, try using Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select in a cocktail.

Cocktail Suggestions:

Alright, we’ve talked about sipping on Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select, but let’s get down to business and talk cocktails! I’m gonna give you the lowdown on a couple of classic options, and then we’ll throw in a wildcard for fun. You can’t go wrong with classics like the Old Fashioned or the Manhattan. You are going to be  taking your taste buds on a cocktail adventure, I hope you’re ready.

Old Fashioned:

First up, the Old Fashioned. It’s like the great grandfather of cocktails. Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Woodford Reserve Bourbon
• 1 sugar cube (or 1/2 tsp loose sugar)
• Few dashes of Angostura bitters
• A splash of water
• Ice cubes
• Orange peel (for garnish)
• Maraschino cherry (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Glass: Now, get yourself an Old Fashioned glass (also known as a rocks glass) and drop that sugar cube in there. If you’ve got loose sugar, just toss it in.
2. Add Bitters and Water: Next, splash a few dashes of Angostura bitters and a little water to soak that sugar.
3. Muddle: Grab a muddler and crush that sugar cube, mix it up real nice with the bitters and water. It’s the base of your cocktail, so make sure that sugar’s mostly dissolved.
4. Add Bourbon: Now, pour in 2 oz of Woodford Reserve Bourbon,
5. Stir: and give it a gentle stir to mix it all together.
6. Add Ice: Drop in some big ice cubes; they melt slower and won’t water down your drink.
7. Garnish: Finally, garnish it with a twist of orange peel – express those oils over the drink, then rim the glass with the peel and drop it in. If you’re feeling it, toss in a maraschino cherry too.
8. Serve: Serve the cocktail and enjoy.

Tip:

And remember, balance is key here. The sugar and bitters should complement the bourbon, not overpower it. Woodford Reserve’s rich flavor profile makes it the perfect partner for this classic cocktail.

Manhattan: 

Next up, the Manhattan. This one’s a bit more sophisticated, like your bourbon’s wearing a tuxedo:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Woodford Reserve Bourbon
• 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
• 2-3 dashes Angostura Bitters
• Ice cubes
• Maraschino cherry (for garnish)
• Orange peel (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Chill the Glass: Start by chillin’ your martini glass or coupe glass. You can do this by filling it with ice water while you prepare the cocktail.
2. Mix the Cocktail: In a mixing glass, combine 2 oz of Woodford Reserve Bourbon with 1 oz of sweet vermouth. Add 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters.
3. Stir: Now, add ice and stir it for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute it just right. Stirring is preferred over shaking for a Manhattan ’cause it gives it that smooth texture.
4. Prepare the Garnish: If you’re going for the orange peel, cut a thin strip and twist it over the mixing glass to release those oils.
5. Strain: After that, strain the cocktail into your chilled glass
6. Garnish: and drop in a maraschino cherry. If you want, add the twisted orange peel for an extra kick of aroma.
7. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy.

Tip:

The quality of the ingredients really matters with a Manhattan, so using a premium bourbon like Woodford Reserve takes it to a whole new level.  The sweetness of the vermouth balances the strength of the bourbon, while the bitters add complexity. Feel free to adjust the ratios slightly to suit your taste preferences.

Mint Julep:

Now, for our wildcard – the Mint Julep:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Woodford Reserve Bourbon
• 4-6 Fresh Mint Leaves (plus more for garnish)
• 1/2 oz Simple Syrup (or to taste)
• Crushed Ice
• Sprig of Mint (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mint: First, in a julep cup or a highball glass, gently muddle the mint leaves with the simple syrup. However, be gentle; we’re just tryin’ to release those minty oils, not crush them.
2. Add Bourbon: Next, pour 2 oz of Woodford Reserve into the glass,
3. Mix: Then give it a quick stir to mix it with the mint-infused syrup..
4. Add Ice: After that, fill that glass almost to the top with crushed ice and give it a good stir until the glass gets frosty. Add more ice to make a little dome on top.
5. Top Up: Add more ice to make a little dome on top.
6. Garnish: Toss in a straw, garnish it with a sprig of fresh mint, and you’re good to go.
7. Serve: Finally, serve immediately.

Tip:

The Mint Julep is all about balance, too. Woodford Reserve’s rich and full-bodied flavor pairs perfectly with the refreshing mint and sweetness of the syrup.

Overall, there are many ways to enjoy Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select. Whether you prefer it neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, this bourbon will seal the deal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the age of Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select?

Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select is not labeled with an age statement. However, it is believed to be aged for around 6-7 years. The company uses a combination of new and used barrels to create a unique flavor profile.

If a whiskey is labeled without an age statement, all the whiskey in the bottle must be at least as old as the minimum age required for that type of whiskey. For example, bourbon and rye must be aged at least two years. So, if a bourbon doesn’t carry an age statement, all the bourbon in that bottle must be at least two years old.

What is the meaning of Distiller’s Select?

The term “Distiller’s Select” describes a whiskey that the master distiller has hand-selected. In the case of Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select, the master distiller selects a combination of pot still whiskey and column still spirits.

Is Woodford Reserve considered a top shelf whiskey?

Yes, Woodford Reserve is generally considered a top shelf whiskey. It has won numerous awards and is highly regarded by whiskey enthusiasts. However, its status as a top shelf whiskey may vary depending on personal taste and preference.

Does Anheuser Busch have ownership of Woodford Reserve?

No, Anheuser Busch does not have ownership of Woodford Reserve. The brand is owned by Brown-Forman Corporation, which also owns other well-known whiskey brands such as Jack Daniel’s and Old Forester.

What is the difference between Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select Rye and Wheat?

What is the significance of the blue label on Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select?

The blue label on Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select is a nod to the bluegrass region of Kentucky, where the brand is produced. In fact, the bluegrass region is known for its fertile soil and is home to many horse farms, which are represented on the label.