At the recently-concluded Tales of the Cocktail, we got a sneak peek of the newest expression from Woodford Reserve. Assistant Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall led us through a tasting and, to make a long story short, we liked it. So we’re happy to share that Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey is now available as the fifth permanent line extension to the brand’s core portfolio.
The Federal Alcohol Administration Act of August 29, 1935 provided guidelines for four styles of American straight whiskeys: bourbon, rye, malt, and wheat. With Woodford Reserve Wheat, the brand now has an expression for all four styles as part of its family of brands. The newcomer is composed of 52 percent wheat, 20 percent malt, 20 percent corn, and eight percent rye.
“This proprietary expression of Woodford Reserve Wheat is designed to deliver a unique ‘fruit-forward’ flavor profile,” said Master Distiller Chris Morris. “It is, like the other members of the Woodford Reserve brands, complex and approachable – and it will make great cocktails.”
At our tasting, we found lots of fruit and spice on the nose, plus light vanilla. On the palate, apple made its presence immediately known, followed by toasted caramel, coconut, and a cooling mint sensation that played nicely with the whiskey’s spice. It all finished in a neat, dry package of cocoa and fruit.
Woodford Reserve Wheat is 90.4 proof with a suggested retail price of $34.99 for a 750ml bottle. It’s available now, so look for it wherever you buy your favorite whiskeys.
