For its 2013 Master’s Collection release, Woodford Reserve bottled two single 100% malted barley whiskeys, aged in used bourbon barrels… a Classic Malt made like Scotch whisky but in a Kentucky climate.
It was released in pair with a Straight Malt Whiskey, aged in new oak barrels.
Woodford Reserve Master’s Collection – Classic Malt (45,2%, OB 2013)
Woodford Reserve Master’s Collection – Classic Malt (45,2%, OB 2013)Nose: strange. I mean, given the Seasoned Oak quality, and compared to Scotch single malt, this just seems uninspired. It has dried grasses, honey and vanilla, with soft hints of peaches and pears in the background. But mostly lots of sweet cereals.
Mouth: very sweet, almost cane sugar as found in white rums. Vanilla and stewed fruits. After a while this turns to unaged corn spirit, mixed with dusty grains and Frosties.
Finish: short and fairly synthetic.
It may be rare to get something like this from Kentucky, but in Scotland they’d keep this aside for another ten years (preferably in less active wood). It’s a rather unsuccessful imitation with no added value. Originally around $ 100, now only found at collector’s prices.
Score: 73/100