Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Review

Recently Woodford Reserve released a new expression called Woodford Reserve Double Oaked. It’s their first expression in over 15 years and I’m happy to report that they’ve done a wonderful job with their newest addition. But before we get into my tasting notes I think we need to provide a little explanation of just what “double oaked” means. Here’s what they have to say over on Woodford’s website:

“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 amounts of soft, sweet oak character.”

Sounds pretty good. It not only sounds good, but it also smells good and tastes fantastic. The aroma reminds me of creamy caramel and vanilla-based desserts. Hell…if they made a candle that smelled like it, I would buy a truckload.

The aroma is so well-balanced I can’t think of a bourbon I’ve had recently that matches it. And the taste? Well, you must read my notes below to hear about the taste.

This is a well-crafted bourbon. The folks at Woodford should be extremely proud of their product and the tradition that they continue to represent. I’m a definite fan. However, I do have some concerns with the pricing of the bourbon compared to other products in the market. I would have preferred that it was in the $30-35 dollar range. But that didn’t stop me from buying two bottles a few days ago. (But in my defense, there were only nine bottles left, and I know it will be a long time before it makes it back to my neck of the woods.)

As always, let me know what you think about my Woodford Reserve Double Oaked review in the comments.

Bourbon Name: Woodford Reserve Double Oaked
Year: 2012
How I Drank It: Neat, in my special bourbon glass (please don’t be jealous)
My Nose Noticed:* Brown Sugar | Cooked Apples | Caramel
First Sip: Oak | Spices | Vanilla
The Burn: Quite sharp on my tongue at first followed by a slow building warmth that remains in the back of your throat and works its way down. A little water added helps reduce the upfront sharpness. After that the burn is pure bliss.
Neat, Splash or Rocks: This is a bourbon that can please everyone. Neat and it’s a powerful balance of bourbon flavors. A splash of water starts to soften the bite and open up the flavors. Add in some rocks and you mellow the bourbon to a pleasing mix of smell and flavors.
Share With: This is a solid bourbon regardless of who you’re drinking with at the time. It’s sophisticated enough to drink with your boss or anyone else you’re trying to impress and is approachable enough even for your friends who don’t know much about bourbon.
Worth The Price: Woodford Reserve Double Oaked is a fantastic bourbon and one that I would be happy to drink on a regular basis. However, at the price of $45-50 it’s a tad bit expensive in my opinion. Plus, since it was just released it’s a little hard to find in most markets.
Bottle, Bar or Bust: If you’ve got a good starter bourbon selection already in place I highly recommend adding this to your collection. But if you’re just getting started I would suggest that you enjoy this one at the bar a few times before shelling out the cash to add to the bar at home.

*I like to let my bourbon sit in the glass for at least 5 minutes before I start to smell it or have a drink. I find that it’s better to let some of the alcohol waft off before diving in. If I’m drinking bourbon on the rocks, I skip the waiting and dive in both feet first.

**Some of you refer to this as the “finish,” but let’s be honest. Don’t we all just want to know if it burns good?