Be Warned: Woodford Reserve's New Bourbon Is Really, Really Strong

Fans of Woodford Reserve, rejoice. Just weeks after launching the latest edition of its beloved Double Double Oaked Bourbon, the Kentucky-based whiskey maker has unveiled its latest limited-edition bottle, the annual Woodford Reserve Batch Proof.

Coming in at an un-sobering 121.2 proof (the usual whiskey comes in at 90.4 proof), the 2024 Woodford Reserve Batch Proof celebrates Woodford Reserve's proprietary distillation process. As a "barrel-proof" expression, the whiskey is created from 100-plus barrels blended into a batch and bottled at its actual proof. The barrels hail from many different dates of production and mature on different floors in a variety of warehouses.

“Barrels drawn from the upper floors of our heat-cycled warehouses tend to possess higher proof presentations, including this limited-edition batch,” says Woodford Reserve master distiller Elizabeth McCall said. “Batch Proof allows consumers to taste Woodford Reserve exactly as it comes out of the barrels.”

Burnt umber in color, the nose offers aromas of vanilla bean, brown sugar pecans, and citrus fruits, with a dusting of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. The palate features toasted oak, cocoa, pineapple, strawberry, and spiced berries. The finish finds more strawberry and toasted oak, alongside notes of raw honey.

The 2024 limited-edition Woodford Reserve Batch Proof is available in select U.S. and global markets, as well as at the distillery.

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