Woodford Reserve has debuted Super Seasoned Oak, the 2026 release in its Master’s Collection series. The expression marks the 22nd bottling in the Kentucky brand’s experimental range and was created under Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall.
The new whiskey centers on the seasoning process of the barrel staves.
Super Seasoned Oak uses specialized barrels crafted from staves exposed to the elements for five to seven years.
Signup now to make sure you don't miss out on the latest whiskey news and deals.
By Signing up, you accept and agree to our Terms of Services and you acknowledge our Privacy Statement. The Whiskey Wash is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Signup now to make sure you don't miss out on the latest whiskey news and deals.
By Signing up, you accept and agree to our Terms of Services and you acknowledge our Privacy Statement. The Whiskey Wash is protected by reCAPTCHA, and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
According to the brand, this intensive outdoor weathering reduces harsh green tannins, opens up the wood grain, and coaxes out deeply concentrated sugars.
Trending Content
The process imparts a depth of spice, toasted sweetness, and dark fruit complexities to the mature bourbon.
The Master’s Collection is Woodford Reserve’s platform for experimental releases. The series explores the "five sources of flavor" that the brand identifies as grain, water, fermentation, distillation, and maturation.
Every Kirkland Bourbon Ranked, From Worst to Best
READ THE STORYSuper Seasoned Oak will retail for a suggested price of $179.99 (£135) per 700ml bottle.
The official tasting notes from the brand describe the bourbon as amber in color.
On the nose, it offers "rich caramel and vanilla with almond, cherry, and cinnamon-dusted dried red apples."
The palate presents "a velvet current of vanilla and caramel brightened with a zesty mix of orange oils, cinnamon, and clove."
The finish is described as "sweet with warm cinnamon."
The typical maturation period for barrel staves in standard bourbon production is between six and nine months. The five-to-seven-year seasoning window used for this release therefore represents a significantly extended process.
Woodford Reserve is produced at the Woodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, Kentucky. The site is a National Historic Landmark and one of the oldest operating distilleries in the state.
The brand is owned by Louisville-based Brown-Forman. Its portfolio also includes Jack Daniel’s, Old Forester, and Gentleman Jack.
McCall was named master distiller of Woodford Reserve in 2021. She succeeded Chris Morris, who had held the role for nearly two decades.
The Master’s Collection was first launched in 2005. Past releases have explored variables including barrel finishes, grain recipes, and unique maturation techniques.
Samples and additional details are available from the brand for coverage consideration.
