Woodford Reserves barrel finish philosophy aims to accentuate a attributes that already exist in our complex whiskiesnever to add or change flavors. For the 2024 Masters Collection release, Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall experimented with finishing our bourbon, rye, and wheat whiskies in Madeira barrelscreating uniquely fruit-forward whiskies.

Hailing from the Madeira Islands off the coast of Portugal, Madeira barrels are rich with dried fruit, spice, and nutty flavors from the fortified wine they once held. To further enhance the flavors of the Madeira-finished whiskies, we blended them with our fruit-forward Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey.

Together, this blend elevates the expansive fruit and floral notes found in our Wheat Whiskey to create this years Master Collection presentation: Woodford Reserve Madeira Cask Finish.

Tasting Notes:

Appearance: Chestnut.

Nose: Dark cherries and candied oranges sprinkled with cocoa powder awaken to bright pepper, clove, nutmeg, and cedar wood.

Taste: Rich oak, cinnamon, clove, and tobacco box fade into robust dried dark fruit notes of raisin and dried cranberry.

Finish: The bright spice notes linger and give way to berry fruit and dark cocoa.

“The Woodford Reserve Masters Collection is famed for having some all-time great pours, though a few were met with initial skepticism. I wouldnt be shocked if this 20th edition was met with both smiles and raised eyebrows. While the nose comes through with elevated yet classic notes, the palate is unique from the first sip, truly a new creation all its own. This is a whiskey that doesnt divulge its secrets (or full flavor) immediately. I think many Woodford fans will be glad for the metaphorical wrestling match. And I certainly hope folks are willing to take a small gamble.” – David Thomas Tao, VinePair (90 Points)