The most recent experimental whiskey from Woodford Reserve and its newish grasp distiller Elizabeth McCall (pictured) has arrived, and it’s a little bit of a spin within the four-grain idea. That is really a mix of 4 totally different whiskeys fairly than one whiskey made with 4 grains, mixing up Woodford Reserve’s Bourbon, Rye, Wheat, and Malt whiskeys — then ending the conflagration in closely toasted new oak barrels. Basically an infinity bottle constructed from Woodford inventory with somewhat further age on it.
For the file, that is the primary Woodford Reserve launch to have Grasp Distiller Elizabeth McCall’s title on the label. McCall formally took over the function of Grasp Distiller from Chris Morris, who now serves as Grasp Distiller Emeritus, in January.
Woodford’s Distillery Collection whiskeys typically have a daring, aggressive character, however with this 4 Grain launch, McCall has pieced collectively one thing fairly softer and extra elegant. The nostril is Woodford-class woodsy, however not overblown, and I get a powerful however not unwelcome notice of peppery curry powder within the glass to go alongside it — transferring extra towards cinnamon and nutmeg with time in glass. Nutty notes within the pecan household linger, hinting at a pie-like filling.
On the palate, the whiskey is sweeter than I had anticipated primarily based on the nostril, rising extra highly effective with time in glass (and on the tongue). Toasted coconut, butterscotch, and extra nutty pecan notes supply a stunning dessert buffet, with notes of cinnamon strengthening over time. These components endure for a while, with the end taking over each some fruit and somewhat little bit of wooden. As at all times, it helps that that is bottled at Woodford’s normal and approachable 45.2% abv, which makes issues all of the extra drinkable.
I’ve to say, I had low expectations for this whiskey, which sounded a bit like a last-minute affair on paper. Seems McCall knew what she was doing all alongside. One in every of my favourite Distillery Collection releases to this point.
90.4 proof.
A / $60 (375ml) / woodfordreserve.com
Woodford Reserve Distillery Collection – Toasted Oak 4 Grain
$60
