It’s a good day to be a whiskey lover. Woodford Reserve, long known for its polished expressions and boundary-pushing flavor explorations, just released the latest gem in its lauded Distillery Series: Tawny Port Finish.
This newest limited-edition bottle is a masterclass in balance and indulgence, crafted under the watchful eye, and discerning palate, of Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall. A blend of rye and bourbon whiskeys forms the foundation, but the real twist comes from bourbon that’s been resting in tawny port barrels, absorbing layers of rich, dried fruit character and delicate wood tones.
“This expression highlights our ability to artfully blend rye and bourbon whiskey, as well our approach to barrel experimentation,” says McCall. “The Tawny Port barrels impart delicate notes of wood and concentrated fruit, which combined with the charred oak barrels, allow us to create a rich, layered whiskey.”
A Sip of Something Special
At 90.4 proof, Tawny Port Finish is described as being decadent without being overbearing, a pour for those looking to explore a softer, fruit-forward expression of American whiskey.
The nose opens with notes of brown sugar, semi-sweet chocolate, nutmeg, and clove, which drift over a core of overripe bananas and dark dried fruit. The palate follows suit with rich raisin, plum, more clove and nutmeg, and just a wisp of brown sugar and toasted walnut to round things out.
The finish? Long and lingering, like a perfectly timed encore … dried fruit and toasted nuts making one last, elegant appearance.
For the Collectors (and the Curious)
Like all members of the Distillery Series, this bottle is made in limited quantities and won’t hang around long. With a suggested price of $64.99 for a 375ml bottle, Tawny Port Finish is available at select Kentucky retailers and the Woodford Reserve Distillery itself. And for the lucky few in KY, NH, ND, NE, and Washington D.C., it can also be ordered online at shop.woodfordreserve.com.
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