Woodford Reserve has launched an exclusive whiskey that combines Kentucky bourbon traditions with French cognac finishing techniques, marking the first travel retail release under new Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall.
The Double XO Blend arrives in Global Travel Retail locations this month at $174.99 for a 700ml bottle. The limited-edition expression blends double and triple-distilled Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys finished in heavily toasted barrels and XO Cognac casks.
Innovative Whiskey Production Process
The dual-finishing process distinguishes Double XO from standard bourbon production methods. Woodford Reserve first ages its bourbon whiskeys through traditional distillation, then transfers them to specially selected casks for additional maturation.
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READ THE STORY“This unique whiskey has a depth, complexity and elegance unlike any of our current offerings, yet it is distinctively Woodford Reserve,” McCall said.
The official tasting notes describe the whiskey as deep mahogany in color. The aroma features chocolate-covered raisins dusted with nutmeg and toasted hazelnuts. On the palate, warm cinnamon, clove and nutmeg combine with brown sugar, raisins and blackberries. The finish delivers long notes of oak and raisins dusted with nutmeg.
Premium Whiskey Targets Travel Market
The release represents Woodford Reserve’s continued focus on the duty-free and travel retail sector, where international airports and cruise terminals offer whiskey enthusiasts exclusive products unavailable in traditional retail channels.
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Woodford Reserve is owned by Brown-Forman and produces its whiskeys at the historic distillery in Versailles, Kentucky. The brand joins other premium Brown-Forman spirits including Jack Daniel’s and Old Forester in targeting international travelers.
The cognac cask finishing technique follows trends in the whiskey industry where distillers experiment with wine and spirit barrels to create new flavor profiles. XO Cognac casks, aged a minimum of 10 years, impart distinctive fruit and spice characteristics to the bourbon.
Limited quantities of Double XO Blend are now available at select Global Travel Retail locations worldwide.
