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Woodford Reserve Barrel Strength Rye
Woodford Reserve

Woodford Reserve Barrel Strength Rye

4.15 Good

11 reviews11 ratings

92 critic score Top 15% of whiskey

Whiskey Rye Kentucky No age statement 62.6% ABV

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About this bottle

Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall employed the same mash bill recipe for this release as the standard Woodford Reserve Rye, which includes only 53% rye. However, this limited edition expression is bottled at the batch's natural strength of 125.1 proof (62.55% ABV), in contrast to the standard 90.4 proof (45.2% ABV). It will be available nationwide starting October 2025. (SRP $129.99)

How it tastes

Measured across 14 flavor axes. Tap a note to find other bottles that lead with it.

Spicy 80
Full Bodied 70
Rich 65
Sweet 40
Herbal 30
Fruity 25
Oily 15
Vanilla 15

Reviews

Showing the most detailed of 4 parsed reviews.

Merrill Henson 4.5

This is the ultimate Kentucky cask strength rye. The initial aroma was somewhat subdued, so I'll check it again later. The taste is profound, dark, and rich. It coats the palate with all the desirable rye characteristics, blended with dark caramel, vanilla, brown sugar, and a pleasant chocolate sweetness. Mint and dill are present upfront on the palate. The texture is smooth and thick. I'll definitely use a few servings to craft some cocktails. It absolutely doesn't deserve the negative reviews it's been getting!

Shayne Braun 4.3

Aroma: notes of anise and licorice, with hints of chicory underneath, and molasses. Taste: flavors of peanut brittle and barrel char. Mid-palate brings mint and that chicory essence. Some chocolate and peppermint emerge. The licorice note persists, gradually fading alongside the chocolate. It has a pleasant mouthfeel, quite satisfying.

Reyna Jaramillo 3.8

Aroma: Caramel Taste: Considering the alcohol content, the taste is underwhelming. I detect oak and some mild rye spices. Finish: The finish persists with dark chocolate and berry notes and a slight sharpness.

Janel Traylor 4.3

Hits the spot when it's chilly. A real comfort.

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Closest flavor profiles across the whole catalog.

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