Woodford Reserve Nicholas Barrel Select Rye #9

The Woodford Reserve brand was launched in 1996, so it’s relatively young in the bourbon world. However, the history of the distillery itself and it impacts on the distilled spirits industry date back to 1812. It was in that year that the first log cabin distillery was built on the site by Elijah Pepper in Versailles, Kentucky, which is located in Woodford County.

They’re led by Master Distiller, Chris Morris– who is not a generational distiller like many of his counterparts. He did grow up in the industry, though, as both his mother and father were distillery employees.

Morris himself has worked with Woodford Reserve since 1976 and took on his current role in 2003. He has been responsible for continuing the signature taste of the brand’s flagship bourbon as well as developing special bottlings. These include Woodford‘s Double Oaked, Rye, and each of the Master’s Collection bourbons, which are an annual release. These often introduce new ingredients and interesting barrels to the bourbon, offering an intriguing taste of the possibilities whiskey holds.

I can’t believe I’ve been doing business with Woodford for so long that this is my Barrel Select #9. It’s hard to beat this Woodford Barrel Select– it’s sensational.

Tasting Notes- Bottled at 90.4 proof

Dark chocolate and orange marmalade notes, rye spiciness adds a bit of flair to the overall flavor profile. In two words, this whiskey is utterly delicious. On the finish it offers a long, spicy and satisfying finish. Hints of tobacco leaf, rye spice, and mint appear before giving way to oak notes and a subtle and elegant floral before leaving the palate.