Woodford Reserve : Distiller’s Select

43.2% / 86.4 PROOF × 70cl × VERSAILLES

The staple release from the well-established Kentucky distillery demonstrates a unique complexity and style seldom seen in bourbons of its price point.

COLOR

Deep bronze. 24kt beading.

BODY

Moderately oily with thick, fast-moving legs.

NOSE

Sliced pears alongside a suggestion of acetone. Pineapple rings unveil on further breathing, followed by candied oranges, freshly sliced lemon, polished hickory, vanilla cream and jasmine flower.

PALATE

Toffee and sweetened honey. An initially soft mouthfeel, followed by a sharp heat, then a dryness.

FINISH

A pleasant warmth which rolls over the heat, all while maintaining that signature drying oak. This style is something I don’t often come across, and it has achieved it surprisingly well.

SCORE: 4/5