Experience the refined elegance of Woodford Reserve Wheat Whiskey, a masterfully crafted spirit rooted in tradition with a contemporary twist. Made from a mash bill comprising 52% wheat, complemented by malt, corn, and rye, this whiskey delivers a smooth and complex profile. Its deep amber hue invites you in, while the aromatic nose of baked apples, spiced cinnamon, and subtle vanilla bean hints at the flavor journey ahead. On the palate, relish the interplay of spicy applesauce, toasted coconut, and earthy cocoa nibs, rounded off by a lingering finish with dry cocoa and fresh apple peel notes. Perfect for sipping neat, on the rocks, or enlivening cocktails like the Old Fashioned, Woodford Reserve Wheat Whiskey combines versatility with an award-winning, approachable sophistication that both connoisseurs and novices will appreciate.
Process & Profile
Crafted by the renowned Woodford Reserve Distillery, Woodford Reserve Wheat Whiskey is a remarkable offering within the niche category of American wheat whiskeys. Its mash bill is composed of 52% wheat, 20% malted barley, 20% corn, and 8% rye, which blends tradition with innovation. Influenced by historical recipes and the ethos of the iconic Woodford Reserve Bourbon, this whiskey delivers a fruit-forward and floral character. Bottled at 90.4 proof (45.2% ABV), this Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey undergoes meticulous distillation and aging in American oak barrels, resulting in a deep amber hue and refined flavor profile.
Tasting Notes
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Appearance: Deep amber with alluring warmth.
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Nose: Inviting aromas of cooked fruits—such as apple, pear, and banana—paired with spices like cinnamon and cedar, rounded out by subtle floral hints and sweetness from vanilla bean and brown sugar.
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Palate: A delightful interplay of spicy applesauce, toasted coconut, earthy mint, and cocoa nibs delivers a medium-bodied, balanced mouthfeel.
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Finish: A dry and lingering conclusion with notes of cocoa nibs and apple peel for a refined farewell.
What Makes It Special
Woodford Reserve Wheat Whiskey distinguishes itself by embracing wheat as its dominant grain, a rarity among American whiskey producers. This expression complements Woodford Reserve's lineup of grain-focused whiskeys, showcasing the versatility of the distillery. It stands out for its nuanced flavor profile, derived from a thoughtful mash bill and expert craftmanship. The bold decision to explore wheat whiskey within a crowded bourbon market highlights the distillery's innovative spirit. Its taste profile—marked by fruity and floral notes—is ideal for whiskey enthusiasts seeking something distinct from traditional bourbons.
How to Enjoy
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Straight or Neat: Savor its complexity and appreciate its delicate flavor nuances.
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On the Rocks: A touch of ice opens up the flavors, especially the fruity and floral undertones.
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In a Cocktail: Elevate classic whiskey cocktails, such as a Whiskey Sour or an Old Fashioned, by substituting with this wheat whiskey for a subtly sweet and spicy twist.
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Perfect Pairings: Pair with light, sweet snacks like caramelized nuts or soft cheeses to complement its caramel and floral notes.
Woodford Reserve Wheat Whiskey is more than just another expression—it's a testament to the art of innovation in the world of American whiskey. Whether you‚Äôre a casual drinker or a connoisseur, this wheat-forward whiskey promises a uniquely refined experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mash bill of Woodford Reserve Wheat Whiskey?
Woodford Reserve Wheat Whiskey is crafted with a mash bill that is 52% wheat, 20% malted barley, 20% corn, and 8% rye, giving it a unique and well-rounded flavor profile with fruit, floral, and spice notes.
How does Woodford Reserve Wheat Whiskey differ from traditional bourbons?
Unlike traditional bourbons that have a majority of corn (at least 51%), this whiskey uses wheat as its dominant grain, making for a smoother, lighter flavor with less pronounced sweetness compared to standard bourbon.
What does Woodford Reserve Wheat Whiskey taste like?
The flavor profile includes notes of spicy applesauce, toasted coconut, earthy mint, and cocoa nibs, with a dry finish featuring hints of cocoa and lingering apple peel. Its nose offers aromas of apple, pear, banana, cinnamon, cedar, vanilla bean, and brown sugar.
What is the proof and appearance of Woodford Reserve Wheat Whiskey?
It is bottled at 90.4 proof (45.2% ABV) and has a deep amber appearance.
How can Woodford Reserve Wheat Whiskey be enjoyed?
This versatile whiskey can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or mixed into cocktails such as an Old Fashioned, Manhattan, or Whiskey Sour. It's also suitable for cooking, especially for adding depth to grilled meats, seafood, or desserts.
Is Woodford Reserve Wheat Whiskey part of the Woodford Reserve family of expressions?
Yes, it is part of Woodford Reserve's core lineup, which includes Bourbon, Rye, Malt, and Wheat whiskeys. The addition of Wheat Whiskey rounded out their collection of the four federally recognized styles of American straight whiskey.
What awards has Woodford Reserve Wheat Whiskey won?
This whiskey has earned accolades such as a Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2022) and 92 points in Jim Murray's Whisky Bible (2019), underscoring its quality and craftsmanship.
How does the distillation process impact Woodford Reserve Wheat Whiskey?
Woodford Reserve uses a combination of pot still and column still distillation methods. This unique process, along with aging in charred oak barrels, enhances the whiskey's complexity and balance.
What makes Woodford Reserve Wheat Whiskey sustainable?
The distillery strives for sustainability by recycling 98% of its waste material and composting 97% of food scraps. The barrels used are made in-house at their own cooperage, ensuring quality control and less environmental impact.
Where is Woodford Reserve Wheat Whiskey produced?
It is produced at the historic Woodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, Kentucky, which has been a part of bourbon history since 1812. The distillery uses limestone-filtered water and a unique yeast strain to craft its spirits.
