Bourbon Whiskey·More from Woodford Reserve

2016 Woodford Reserve Master's Collection Brandy Cask Finish Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey 750ml

Woodford Reserve Master's Collection Brandy Cask Finish 90.4 Proof (45.2% ABV) is a high-intent 2016 technical release from the Woodford Reserve Distillery (DSP-KY-11). Marking the 11th installment in this annual series, this expression represents a significant milestone as the first whiskey in the industry to utilize American brandy casks for secondary maturation. Utilizing the foundational 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% malted barley mash bill, the spirit underwent a prolonged finishing period of nearly two years in used brandy barrels. Unlike new charred oak, these seasoned brandy casks allow for a more delicate interaction, focusing on the chemical accentuation of existing fruit esters and nutty characteristics rather than masking them with heavy wood tannins. Matured in heat-cycled stone warehouses, the resulting liquid is structurally dense with technical notes of dried cranberry, toasted hazelnut, and dark chocolate. It stands as a definitive benchmark for collectors tracking the influence of extended secondary maturation on classic Kentucky bourbon.