Woodford Reserve Double Double Oaked Bourbon Review

By Randall H. Borkus

Rating: B

Woodford Reserve has re-release their popular Double Double Oaked Kentucky Bourbon whiskey. It was first unveiled as part of the Distillery Series’ expressions in 2015. The Double Double Oaked expression comes about by finishing the Woodford Reserve Double Oaked in a second, heavily toasted, lightly charred, new oak barrel for an additional year.

“We take great pride in our ongoing communication with Woodford Reserve fans and we’re thrilled to hear the positive feedback on Double Double Oaked,” said Master Distiller Chris Morris. “Fans loved this product for its unique style and rich flavor profile and we listened to their calls to bring it back for an encore appearance.”

One of my all-time favorite “go to” whiskey options, Woodford Reserve holds a solid reputation as a premium Bourbon. I have always found Woodford Reserve to be consistent and reliable and downright enjoyable to imbibe. There has never been a time that a bottle of Woodford Reserve could not be found in my personal library of bourbon whiskies.

With the most recent bourbon industry boom came the decision to expand consumer options and maximize revenue, Woodford has added a Master’s Collection, the Double Oaked, a Rye and the Distillery Series, and I hear rumors of a Wheat Whisky expression coming soon. With the Distillery Series’ Double Double Oaked, the additional time in an oaky slumber creates a bourbon whiskey that is spicier than you might expect from a Woodford Reserve, yet it still retains that sweet taste and Carmel finish.

The Bourbon
The juice is a dark amber in the glass. The nose is bold with hints of cinnamon, vanilla, and refined caramel. The mouth feel holds minimal alcohol burn with lots of the traditional flavors of Woodford vanilla and caramel revealing themselves on my palate. The flavor is rich and silky and coats my mouth deliciously. The finish is spicy creating a long lingering flavor experience that is warm and comforting with more hints of vanilla and caramel. This is just the perfect resolution for a cold winter night. Overall this is a solid, smooth, satisfying bourbon whiskey that should continue to be appreciated by a whiskey craving public.

The Price
Double Double Oaked is available for purchase in limited quantities beginning January 26, 2017 at the Woodford Reserve Distillery and select retailers in Kentucky. Double Double Oaked is presented at 90.4 proof with no age statement and a suggested retail price of $49.99 for a 375ml bottle.