New Woodford Reserve Bottling Finished in French Oak

The Woodford Reserve Distillery Series, as we’ve been tracking over time, has showcased some rather interesting whiskey experiments. Of late the series’ focus has been around rye whiskey variants, and now the latest and final expression in a triple run of bottlings has been unveiled.

What’s being called the Woodford Reserve Distillery Series French Oak Cask Finished Rye, according to those behind it, takes the distillery’s Master Collection Aged Cask Rye and matures it in French Oak barrels for an additional three years. These special barrels originally held Pinot Noir before they were seasoned with Woodford Reserve Bourbon.

“This expression, compared to the previous two, is by far the fruitiest of our rye whiskey Distillery Series offerings,” said Woodford Reserve Master Distiller Chris Morris in a prepared statement. “Fruit characteristics are atypical for a rye whiskey, making this tropical and citrus dominant blend a very unique expression.”

Plans call for this 86.4 proof rye whiskey to be made available through the distillery and at Kentucky retailers for around $50 for a 375 ml bottle. You’ll find official tasting notes for this light honey colored spirit below.

• Aroma: Buttery shortbread with hints of nuttiness and Kiwi fruit coated with drizzled honey resting atop a plank of toasted cedar.
• Taste: Brown butter and honey brushed on grilled pineapple.
• Finish: Finishes like a mouthful of soft Key Lime Pie.