Crafted for bourbon lovers seeking a malted twist, Woodford Reserve Malt Whiskey is a Kentucky Straight Malt Whiskey featuring a 51% malted barley mash bill, complemented by 47% corn and 2% rye. Aged in new charred oak barrels, this expression delivers a rich and complex profile with notes of caramel, dark chocolate, toasted nuts, and hints of tropical fruit. The nutty undertones and smooth, subtly sweet finish make it approachable yet sophisticated. With a proof of 90.4, this whiskey can be savored neat, on the rocks, or as a unique base in classic cocktails. Perfect for whiskey enthusiasts exploring the bridge between bourbon and malt whiskey, Woodford Reserve Malt is where tradition meets innovation.
Process & Profile
Woodford Reserve Bourbon Malt is a unique expression that blends the classic characteristics of bourbon with the distinctive qualities of malt whiskey. Crafted in the heart of Kentucky, this whiskey is composed of a mash bill featuring 51% malted barley, complemented by 47% corn and 2% rye. Aged in new charred oak barrels, this spirit is a perfect fusion of bourbon boldness and malt whiskey complexity. Bottled at 90.4 proof (45.2% ABV), it offers a richly flavored and approachable profile, making it ideal for bourbon enthusiasts venturing into the world of malt whiskey.
Tasting Notes
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Appearance: Warm umber with a radiant glow.
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Nose: Soft nutty aromas layered with light caramel, milk chocolate, and a burst of fruity notes like apple, dried fruits, and tropical hints. Subtle spices, brown sugar, and freshly toasted oak bring depth.
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Palate: Rich flavors of dark chocolate and caramel-coated nuts with a dusting of cocoa powder. A medley of fruit brightens the profile, with toasted coconut and oak adding a creamy texture.
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Finish: Nutty and subtly sweet with lingering chocolate malt notes, leaving a pleasant warmth and satisfying closure.
What Makes It Special
Woodford Reserve Bourbon Malt stands out as a malt whiskey designed with bourbon drinkers in mind. Unlike traditional 100% malt whiskies, this expression's 51% malted barley foundation amplifies the nutty, chocolatey notes associated with Woodford Reserve while maintaining a balance of sweetness and spice from its corn and rye components. This strategic blend creates a gateway whiskey to the American malt category, ideal for bourbon lovers looking to explore new horizons.
How to Enjoy
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Neat or On the Rocks: The rich, complex flavors are best savored neat, but adding a touch of ice can mellow the profile for a smoother experience.
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Cocktail Innovation: Incorporate this whiskey into classic cocktails like an Old Fashioned or Manhattan to highlight its nutty and chocolatey undertones.
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Pairings: Enjoy it alongside desserts like chocolate truffles or pecan pie for a harmonious flavor match, or with a mild cigar to elevate its earthy and cocoa notes.
Experience Woodford Reserve Bourbon Malt as a premium entry into the American malt whiskey category. Whether you're an aficionado or a curious newcomer, this versatile whiskey promises a satisfying journey into the blending of bourbon and malt traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Woodford Bourbon Malt?
Woodford Bourbon Malt is a Kentucky Straight Malt Whiskey crafted from 51% malted barley, with additional corn (47%) and rye (2%) in its mash bill. It is aged in new charred oak barrels, resulting in a rich, complex flavor that combines characteristics of malt whiskey with those of bourbon.
How does Woodford Bourbon Malt differ from other malt whiskeys?
Unlike traditional 100% malt whiskeys, Woodford Bourbon Malt uses a 51% malted barley base, making it unique as a malt whiskey designed for bourbon drinkers. It blends the nutty and chocolatey flavors of malt with the sweet, caramelized characteristics of bourbon.
What are the tasting notes for Woodford Bourbon Malt?
- **Nose**: Soft nutty notes, light caramel, milk chocolate, and hints of apple, dried fruit, and brown spice.
- **Palate**: Dark chocolate, caramel-coated nuts, toasted coconut, and a bright oak character.
- **Finish**: Nutty with subtle chocolate malt sweetness.
What is the proof of Woodford Bourbon Malt?
Woodford Bourbon Malt is bottled at 90.4 proof (45.2% ABV), providing a smooth and balanced drinking experience.
How should Woodford Bourbon Malt be served?
This whiskey is versatile and can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as part of a cocktail. Its rich flavors also make it ideal for sipping slowly to appreciate its complexity.
What makes the production of Woodford Bourbon Malt special?
The whiskey benefits from the five sources of flavor emphasized by Woodford Reserve: water, grain, fermentation, distillation, and maturation. The use of limestone-filtered water, heat-cycled rackhouses, and triple pot still distillation contributes to its distinctive flavor profile.
Is Woodford Bourbon Malt a bourbon or a malt whiskey?
Technically, it is a Kentucky Straight Malt Whiskey because it contains 51% malted barley in its mash bill. However, its aging process in new charred oak barrels and flavor profile make it attractive to bourbon enthusiasts.
Does Woodford Bourbon Malt have an age statement?
No, Woodford Bourbon Malt does not carry an age statement. It is aged to taste, ensuring optimal flavor and complexity in every batch.
Why is this whiskey described as “for bourbon drinkers”?
Woodford Bourbon Malt blends characteristics of bourbon, such as sweetness and caramel notes, with the nutty and malty flavors of traditional malt whiskey. It offers bourbon drinkers an approachable entry into the world of malt whiskeys.
Who is the Master Distiller behind Woodford Bourbon Malt?
The whiskey is crafted under the expertise of Master Distiller Chris Morris, who is renowned for his innovative approach and commitment to flavor in whiskey production.