As a whiskey enthusiast, I was excited to try the Woodford Reserve Master’s Collection Batch Proof 2019. This small batch release is bottled at a higher proof than the standard Woodford Reserve, and I was curious to see how that affected the flavor profile.
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Woodford Reserve Master’s Collection Batch Proof 2019 Overview
As a whiskey enthusiast, I was excited to hear about Woodford Reserve’s 2019 Master’s Collection Batch Proof release. This limited edition bourbon is part of the Master’s Collection, which celebrates Woodford Reserve’s commitment to innovation and craftsmanship in the whiskey category.
Product History
The Master’s Collection Batch Proof is an extension of the Master’s Collection line, which has included unique releases such as the Woodford Reserve Double Double Oaked and the Woodford Reserve Straight Malt. This year’s Batch Proof is the second release of its kind, following the successful debut of the 2018 Batch Proof.
What sets the Batch Proof apart from Woodford Reserve’s other offerings is its high proof. This bourbon is bottled at a robust 123.2 proof, which is significantly higher than Woodford Reserve’s standard 90.4 proof. The higher proof gives the Batch Proof a more intense flavor profile, making it a great choice for those who enjoy bold, complex whiskeys.
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Price Range
The Woodford Reserve Master’s Collection Batch Proof 2019 is a limited edition release, so it’s not surprising that it comes with a higher price tag than Woodford Reserve’s standard offerings. At around $100–200 for a 750ml bottle, it’s definitely a splurge purchase. However, for whiskey enthusiasts who appreciate unique, high-quality releases, it’s worth the investment.
Tasting Notes
Aroma
Upon pouring, I immediately noticed the strong alcohol scent, which is expected given the 123.2 proof. However, as I continued to explore the aroma, I could detect notes of cherry and allspice, which were well-defined and clear beneath the proof.
Flavor
Despite the intensity of the proof, the flavors played very clearly on my tongue. The first sip was bold and spicy, with a strong kick of cinnamon and black pepper. As I continued to sip, I noticed a subtle sweetness that balanced out the spice. The flavors were complex, and I could detect hints of caramel and vanilla that added depth to the overall taste.
Finish
The finish was long and warm, with a lingering spice that left a pleasant tingle on my tongue. The sweetness remained present throughout the finish, but it was not overpowering. Instead, it provided a nice contrast to the bold spice and added a layer of complexity to the finish.
Rating
Overall, I found the Woodford Reserve Master’s Collection Batch Proof 2019 to be a well-balanced and complex bourbon. While the high proof may be intimidating to some, I found that it did not detract from the overall experience. I would give this bourbon a rating of 8.5 out of 10 and would recommend it to anyone looking for a bold and complex sipping whiskey.
Mixing And Pairing
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Best Mixers
As a high-proof bourbon, Woodford Reserve Master’s Collection Batch Proof 2019 can be enjoyed neat or with a splash of water to open up the flavors. However, if you prefer a cocktail, there are some mixers that work particularly well with this bourbon. Ginger ale and cola are both great choices that complement the spicy and sweet notes in the bourbon.
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Cocktail Suggestions
If you’re looking for a cocktail to make with Woodford Reserve Master’s Collection Batch Proof 2019, here are a few suggestions:
- Old Fashioned: This classic cocktail is a perfect match for the complex flavors of this bourbon. Mix 2 oz of Woodford Reserve Master’s Collection Batch Proof 2019 with a sugar cube, a dash of bitters, and a splash of water. Garnish with an orange peel and a cherry.
- Whiskey Sour: This simple cocktail is a great way to showcase the flavors of the bourbon. Mix 2 oz of Woodford Reserve Master’s Collection Batch Proof 2019 with ¾ oz of fresh lemon juice and ½ oz of simple syrup. Shake with ice and strain into a glass. Garnish with a cherry and a lemon wedge.
- Manhattan: This classic cocktail is a great way to enjoy the spicy and sweet notes of the bourbon. Mix 2 oz of Woodford Reserve Master’s Collection Batch Proof 2019 with 1 oz of sweet vermouth and a dash of bitters. Stir with ice and strain into a glass. Garnish with a cherry.
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Food Pairings
When it comes to food pairings, Woodford Reserve Master’s Collection Batch Proof 2019 is a versatile bourbon that can complement a variety of dishes. Here are a few suggestions:
- Steak: The bold flavors of a juicy steak are a perfect match for the spicy and oaky notes in this bourbon.
- Dark Chocolate: The rich and complex flavors of dark chocolate pair well with the sweet and nutty notes in the bourbon.
- Cheese: Aged cheeses like cheddar or gouda are a great match for the spicy and oaky flavors in the bourbon.
Conclusion
Woodford Reserve Master’s Collection Batch Proof 2019 is a high-quality bourbon that is worth trying for anyone who appreciates a good, high-proof whiskey. With a mash bill of 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% malt, it has a classic bourbon flavor profile that is both rich and complex.
At $100–200 for a 700ml bottle, the Woodford Reserve Master’s Collection Batch Proof 2019 is certainly not cheap. However, for those who are willing to spend a bit more for a high-quality bourbon, it is definitely worth considering. I highly recommend the Woodford Reserve Master’s Collection Batch Proof 2019 to anyone who is looking for a top-notch bourbon that is both complex and enjoyable to drink.
Related Posts
If you enjoyed my review of the Woodford Reserve Master’s Collection Batch Proof 2019, you might also be interested in reading about some other great whiskies. Here are a few other posts you might want to check out:
- Weekly Review: Sampling Exile Casks’ first release The Trojan: This post from The Whisky Lady reviews an exciting new release from Exile Casks, a London-based independent bottler. The Trojan is a blended malt Scotch whisky that’s sure to impress.
- Weekly Review: Wemyss Malts’ Midsummer single cask releases: This post from The Whisky Lady takes a look at nine new single cask whiskies from Wemyss Malts. Ranging from 18 to 27 years old, these whiskies are perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening.
- Weekly Review: Edinburgh Whisky Ltd “The Advocate’s Batch”: This post from The Whisky Lady reviews a limited edition release from Edinburgh Whisky Ltd. The Advocate’s Batch is a blended malt whisky that’s been aged in sherry casks, giving it a rich, fruity flavor.
- Weekly Review : A look at Beinn Dubh (Black Whisky): This post from The Whisky Lady takes a look at a unique new release from Speyside Distillery. Beinn Dubh is a ruby-black whisky that’s sure to turn heads.
- Weekly Review: Wolfburn Single Malt: This post from The Whisky Lady reviews the first single malt release from Wolfburn Distillery. Aged in a combination of ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks, this whisky is sure to please.
