Latest Woodford Reserve Bourbon Gets Fancy With Ex-Cognac Cask Finishing

The Woodford Reserve line of premium bourbons has, to date, not strayed too deeply into the waters of high price bottlings, despite the occasional Master’s Collection releases. Global travel retail, however, is just the place to showcase more pricey expressions, which is something Woodford first let onto as a new direction for them with last year’s word of an expensive bottling housed in a crystal decanter. That offering is now out, and known as Woodford Reserve Baccarat Edition.

Woodford Reserve Baccarat Edition, according to those behind it, takes the regular Woodford Reserve bourbon and finishes it for several years in ex-XO Cognac casks. From here things get very upscale for this American whiskey, as it is placed inside a special Baccarat crystal decanter designed “to evoke the iconic Woodford Reserve bottle silhouette.” The bottle is engraved with both the Woodford and Baccarat logos, presented in a signature Baccarat red box and includes a crystal stopper adorned with Woodford Reserve’s initials.

“We are extremely proud to announce the partnership between the world’s finest bourbon and the world’s finest crystal because both represent craftsmanship at the highest level,” said Mark Bacon, Global Brand Director for Woodford Reserve, in a prepared statement. “This partnership elevates the category of American Whiskey in the global market.”

“Baccarat is honored to be the partner of  Woodford Reserve for this important premiere in the world of American whiskey,” added Baccarat Global CEO, Daniela Riccardi. “We are proud of the work done together and of a beautiful decanter that our artisans crafted inspired by the excellence and savoir-faire that both our Maisons cherish.”

As it stands now plans call for Woodford Reserve Baccarat Edition, bottled at 90.4 proof, to be available in global travel retail now for a price point of $1,500 per bottle. It will be a limited edition release, and is exclusive to duty free stores for one year. Limited official tasting notes indicate that “Woodford Reserve Baccarat Edition is crafted by uniquely finishing the most flavorful and balanced Kentucky Bourbon in select XO Cognac casks for 3 years. The result is the best of both spirits – a balance of crisp American and French oak notes, complex fruit character, subtle spiciness, and a creamy confectionary finish.”