Woodford Reserve Master's Collection Historic Barrel Entry

In the 1830s, our Woodford County distillery was the setting for a series of discoveries and innovative practices that today define the bourbon industry. Woodford Reserve Master's Collection Historic Barrel Entry release Master Distiller Chris Morris and Assistant Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall have drawn upon that rich history and their interests for inspiration.

Woodford Reserve Master's Collection Historic Barrel Entry was made with newly distilled whiskey that went into the barrel at 100 proof. The barrel entry proof of new make plays an important role in the maturation process, and the standard for barrel entry proof has changed over the past two centuries. Many factors are involved in this, and barrel entry proof plays an important role. The proof is controlled as it enters the barrel (barrel entry proof) and leaves the barrel (bottle proof) by adding water to achieve a desired flavor profile. A higher concentration of water is added as it enters the barrel, resulting in a lower proof, allowing for less water to be added upon exit, which results in a greater concentration of the natural flavors absorbed from the charred oak. Barrel entry proof has changed over the past two centuries. The bourbon of the 19th century had a barrel entry of 100 to 103 proof. After the repeal of Prohibition, barrel entry-proof levels began to increase.

In 1962, the barrel entry proof was increased to the present 125-proof standard. Woodford Reserve Master's Collection Historic Barrel Entry features the 100-proof entry of a bygone era and is presented at 90.4 proof. This Historic Barrel Entry is a rich and darkly robust expression of Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.

Color: Deep russet orange.

Aroma: An alluring medley of vanilla bean and dried apple dusted with nutmeg, clove, and cinnamon with a hint of cocoa. Roasted coffee and hazelnut soften into dark cherry and plum notes muddled with spearmint.

Palate: Rich toasted oak is tempered by overripe banana and a medley of cooked berry fruits. Hints of leather, coffee, and baking spice trail into minty dark chocolate.

Finish: A lingering charred oak, leather, and orange oil finish.