Woodford Reserve

Time to digress from scotches and check out some American Bourbon. Woodford Reserve seems to be much beloved by people on the net and also by a mysterious unnamed manager at the local liquor store. Picked this one up today on just a whim from the 'manager selection.' I like that they never try to explain why the manager would or could or should recommend different picks. But to be honest, the manager has never let us down.

Woodford Reserve kicks in at 45.2%. There's a bit of a disagreement on how much water to add. Start with a little and if you like it, stick with it. Find it too strong... put some more in.

The first thing we noticed with the nose is the brown sugar; very strong and sweet, with a nice blend of vanilla and warm butterscotch. With further investigation there are hints of orange zest, clove, and maybe a possible sultana scent, but maybe that's just the alcohol speaking.

The palate has a dry oak taste with chocolate and amaretto blending into a nice coffee taste.

The finish continues the oak theme, with a strong almond feel. A very delicious bourbon indeed. Nice and sweet with chocolate, almonds and a plethora of other tastes to discover? Who wouldn't like it?