Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Malt Whiskey

Woodford Reserve’s Kentucky Straight Malt is a bold and thoughtful departure from standard bourbon — a whiskey that leans into malt character without abandoning its Kentucky roots. Crafted with 51% malted barley, this “straight malt” is matured in new charred oak barrels and draws on Woodford’s deep experience in grain, yeast, and barrel influence. The result is a richly flavorful, nutty, and complex spirit designed to appeal both to bourbon loyalists and malt whisky adventurers.

Tasting Notes

Colour: Warm umber, reflecting deep oak character.

Nose: Soft nutty aromas, drizzled with light caramel and milk chocolate. Orchard fruits (apple, dried fruit, tropical hints) mingle with toasted oak, brown sugar, and a gentle spice.

Palate: Balanced and expressive. Dark chocolate, caramel-coated nuts, and malted barley unfold with brown spice, sweet oak, and hints of toasted coconut. There’s a subtle warmth (peppery heat) that supports rather than overwhelms.

Finish: Nutty and softly sweet, echoing chocolate malt notes and oak. The finish lingers, leaving behind malt and oak echoes.

Technical Details

Mash Bill / Composition: 51% malted barley (with remaining grain components)

Cask / Maturation: New charred American oak barrels

ABV / Proof: 45,2% (90.4 US Proof)

Age / Statement: No age statement (NAS)

Filtration & Colouring: Standard practice (non-chill filtered / natural colour, per brand norms) — brand does not add colouring to maintain integrity