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Whiskey Review: Woodford Reserve Batch Proof 123.2

We review Woodford Reserve Batch Proof 123.2, an annual release of the traditional Woodford bourbon but at a much higher proof.

OVERALL RATING

10
$130.00
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Tasting Notes

About:

Mash bill is 72% corn, 18% rye and 10% malt, the same as their standard Woodford Reserve, but 2019 batch proof is 123.2 proof. The Master’s Collection costs about $130 for a 750ml bottle.
Appearance:
Deep coloring, almost red like a henna tattoo before it’s dry. Significant legs, tough and thick. Woodford Reserve took their traditional and turned the intensity to the max. Their batch proof is an amplified version of what we think we know about whiskey.
Nose:
Fruity, with notes of citrus and ripe plantain. Semi-sweet notes of chocolate covered cherries. There are also more savory scents: oak and wet, moss-covered stone. It’s complex but balanced. The nose is really pleasant, with a slight bite. It’s an exaggerated version of the traditional, with fierce notes that attack the senses, but instead of using weapons, it’s attacking with nice hugs.
Palate:
Starts off sweet and nutty, builds in to bold, bitter dark chocolate. The sweetness builds with figs, peaches and clove cigarettes. There is a slight burn, but it’s not a face-melter, which is a hard line to walk with such a high proof. Woodford is walking that line with ease. Notes of caramel, copper pennies, leather and coffee on the finish. There’s a nice minerality to the flavor that’s carried throughout.
Finish:
Comments:
Woodford Reserve Batch Proof 123.2 is one of the best whiskies I’ve ever had. It has heroically bold flavors that are balanced and it’s really easy to sip despite its very high proof. It’s almost a dessert, it’s so decadent. I only got a tiny sample, and I savored every drop. Pairs well with steak, pork, and savory winter flavors that can stand up to the spirit’s huge personality.

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by The Whiskey Wash or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.

Shauna McKnight

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