Whiskey Review/Tasting: Woodford Reserve Double Oaked

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Kentucky, USA.
Type: Kentucky Straight Bourbon.
Distillation Process: Produced on pot stills, specifically Scottish or imported pot stills from Forsyth in Rothes.
Maturation Process: Unique double barrel process; first matured in a custom-crafted barrel, then re-barreled in a heavily toasted, lightly charred new American white oak barrel.
Age Statement: Not specified.
Color: Very dark brown.
Clarity: Not mentioned.
Bottle Design: Features two small cask symbols on the label indicating the double oaked process.

Balance of Flavors: Full, complex, with a significant oak influence.
Unique Characteristics: Exceptionally dark color, full fruity aroma, and a flavor profile rich in caramelized fruits, dried plums, resins, sultanas, caramel, heavy oak, and hints of marzipan.
Comparison: Not directly compared to other whiskies, but its unique double oaking process sets it apart.

Interesting Anecdotes: The double oaking process is a creative workaround to adhere to the Bourbon Act while enhancing flavor and complexity. The finishing casks, due to regulations, cannot be reused for bourbon, leading to their potential use in the blended whiskey industry or in Scotland.

Historical Context: The Bourbon Act mandates the use of new American white oak barrels for maturation, a rule that benefits the lumber industry but also ensures quality by preventing the reuse of barrels, which would diminish oak influence over time.

"A very new, very creative whiskey which still applies to the bourbon act even using two casks."
"A wonderful piece of whiskey."
"It's a revolution, very new for Kentucky straight bourbon."

Woodford Reserve Double Oaked is a Kentucky Straight Bourbon with a unique double barrel maturation process.
It features a rich, complex flavor profile with heavy oak influence, caramelized fruits, and a hint of nuts.
The whiskey adheres to the Bourbon Act by using new American white oak barrels for both stages of maturation.
The double oaking process is innovative within the American whiskey industry, offering a creative solution to enhance flavor while following legal requirements.
Expert opinions praise the whiskey for its creativity, complexity, and contribution to the evolution of bourbon.

Bourbon Enthusiasts: Individuals with a deep appreciation for bourbon will find the unique double oaking process intriguing.
Whiskey Adventurers: Those who enjoy exploring innovative and complex flavor profiles in whiskey.
Collectors: Given the potential limited availability and unique production process, this bourbon might appeal to collectors seeking distinctive bottles.
New Whiskey Drinkers: The smoothness and complex but accessible flavor profile could appeal to newcomers looking to explore high-quality bourbon.