Veteran Bourbon Review: Woodford Reserve Doubled Oaked

Official Product Website

History – Woodford Reserve I think we can all agree is a brand that everyone pretty much knows if you have been in the bourbon world for some time. It has deep roots in the Kentucky Derby while also being a great entry level bourbon on their distiller select label. This bottle is different in the case that it really is a toasted barrel style finishing but labeled as a double oaked. Here is a little message from their site about the product. “An innovative approach to twice-barreled bourbon creates the rich and colorful flavor of Woodford Reserve Double Oaked. Uniquely matured in separate, charred oak barrels – the second barrel deeply toasted before a light charring – extracts additional soft, sweet oak character.” – Woodreserve.com 

Value – This is a great value for a bourbon that has a lot of depth to it around the $50 to $60 range. I would definitely buy this again.

Appearance – Hickory / Russet color: The bottle is an odd shape and provides you a very old school feel to it. Takes up alot of space on the bourbon shelf but also makes people notice that the unique bottle that is sitting there is that of Woodford Reserve Double Oaked.

Nose – Nutmeg / Custard / Bread Pudding / Honey. These flavors really make a difference here. I feel like when I am about to smell this, it pushes sweet baking spices to the front and makes you feel very cozy. One of those times that makes you want to lean in and grab more of the nose because it is so enjoyable.

Palate – Vanilla Pudding / Pecan / Hickory Wood / Dark Chocolate. Woah this is pretty smooth and has a deep mouthfeel to it. Very thick in its consistency. It has a medium balance to it. It’s not super complex but does have a soft tone that will not push you away or bite you too hard. 

Finish – Tobacco / Leather / Old Wood / Low Heat. It’s soft and very gentle for those that are seeking that.

Summary – In the end it was not that bad as it was a very enjoyable bourbon that is inviting, soft and all around flavorful. The baking spices really stand out in this along with very sweet flavors from aroma down to the finish. The finish is not that great but doable for a bourbon that you really want to pair with chocolate or with a steak even.

“Rich history while keeping rich while balanced flavors and showing softness through the process.”

– Andrew Workman

Uniqueness- 1-10 – 4

Appearance- 1-10 – 8

Nose- 1-20 – 16

Palate- 1-20 – 12

Finish- 1-20 – 11

Value- 1-20 – 15