Woodford Reserve Extends To American Malts
Woodford Reserve has announced the release of Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Malt Whiskey, a blended malt whiskey based on historical recipes and influenced by Woodford Reserve Bourbon.
The American Malt is the newest expression to the Woodford Reserve portfolio, which includes the original Woodford Reserve Bourbon, Woodford Reserve Double Oaked, and Woodford Reserve Rye. This fourth addition of Woodford Reserve’s 22-year-old brand showcases the distillery’s rich 206-year-old history crafting America’s favorite spirits in its purest form. It also makes a more traditional use of Woodford Reserve’s Irish-style, triple set of copper pot stills, the only arrangement of its kind in Kentucky.
Driven by Master Distiller, Chris Morris, known for numerous innovations including aging and finishing bourbon in Chardonnay and Pinot Noir Barrels, the new malt expression illustrates his keen eye for craftsmanship while keeping the integral character of Woodford Reserve at heart. Woodford Reserve Malt will be available for purchase nationwide beginning in June 2018. The grain bill of Woodford Reserve Malt is 51 percent malt, mirroring the low 50s content of the Kentucky style rye whiskeys. Since it is not 100% malted barley, however, it should not be called a single malt.
“Our newest permanent expression, Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Malt Whiskey, highlights Woodford Reserve’s creativity, innovative spirit, and dedication to making the world’s best tasting whiskeys,” said Master Distiller Chris Morris. “Inspired by history and a distinct flavor profile, Woodford Reserve is charting its own unique path with this new malt whiskey based on historical precedence and our commitment to flavor, something that’s ingrained in everything we do.”
Coming out of Prohibition, the Federal Government approved four straight whiskey standards: Bourbon, Rye, Wheat, and Malt. These reflected the types of whiskies produced in the United States prior to Prohibition. While most people associate Malt Whiskey with Scotland, Kentucky has a history of Malt Whiskey production pre-Prohibition. Woodford Reserve Malt draws upon this pre-Prohibition heritage for inspiration.
Continuing its innovation in bourbon crafting, Woodford Reserve Malt is the fourth permanent line extension to join the portfolio, which includes the original Woodford Reserve Bourbon, Woodford Reserve Double Oaked, and Woodford Reserve Rye.
Woodford Reserve Malt is produced with the same heritage and tradition that surrounds the iconic Woodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, Kentucky. Since the mid-1800s, the site has been known for its visionary approach to distilling, and is today is visited by more than 140,000 visitors each year.
Woodford Reserve Malt presents at 90.4 proof, with a suggested retail price of $34.99 for a 750ml bottle.