Woodford Reserve Distiller's Select
Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select is a Kentucky bourbon known for its classic yet full-bodied style. The Woodford Reserve Distillery produces a series of four straight whiskeys, each highlighting a primary grain. The Distiller’s Select is a bourbon, meaning it contains at least 51% corn, complemented by rye and malted barley. One standout feature is its pot still distillation – a rarity among Kentucky bourbons, adding depth and complexity to the final product.
Tasting Notes
Nose
On the nose, this bourbon presents a rich bouquet of traditional notes. Sweet caramel blends with vanilla and honey, while oak undertones add depth. A fresh orange note introduces a fruity brightness, while a hint of solvent and subtle rye spice highlight its grain composition.
Palate
The palate is well-balanced and harmonious. Honey sweetness meets fresh citrus and juicy nectarines. A generous amount of rye spice gives the bourbon an appealing sharpness and depth. Caramel and oak provide a classic bourbon character that is both rich and satisfying.
Finish
The finish is medium in length and pleasantly warming. Tobacco notes take center stage, accompanied by the distinctive spiciness of rye and oak, creating a well-rounded and lasting impression.
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To our bottle sharingsThoughts
Marcel 72/100
Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select brings fun to the glass and impresses with its sweet caramel and honey notes – a bourbon that delivers uncomplicated enjoyment and is perfect for a relaxed evening. Not overly complex, but with enough character to keep it interesting.
Sascha 76/100
With a balanced harmony of sweetness, rye spice, and oak, Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select presents itself as a structured bourbon that, despite its classic style, offers a pleasant depth. The medium-length tobacco and spice notes on the finish provide a coherent, lasting conclusion.
Value for Money: Good
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71/100Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the pot still distillation of Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select special?
Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select is distilled in pot stills, which is unusual among Kentucky bourbons. This traditional distillation method allows for a slower and gentler separation of the alcohols, resulting in a deeper range of aromas and greater complexity in the bourbon.
How does the grain bill influence the flavor of Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select?
The bourbon is made from at least 51% corn, complemented by rye and malted barley. The corn provides the characteristic sweetness, the rye adds a spicy sharpness, and the malted barley contributes to the flavor depth. This combination creates a balanced and complex flavor profile.
Why does Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select have no age statement?
Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select is bottled without an explicit age statement, meaning it is blended from various barrels to ensure a consistent flavor profile. The maturation period typically ranges between four and seven years but varies depending on barrel selection.