I recently had the pleasure of trying Woodford Reserve’s Very Fine and Rare Bourbon. I was excited to taste this highly aged bourbon and see if it lived up to its reputation. I was not disappointed.
The sensory notes in Woodford Reserve’s Very Fine and Rare Bourbon were truly exceptional. The rich tannins and fruits were prominent, creating a memorable experience. As a fan of Brown Forman products, I was pleased to find that the aging process did not diminish the sweetness of the bourbon.
This particular bourbon is a nod to the past with its name, which references the descriptors used by our ancestors to auction highly-aged bourbon barrel lots. However, it’s clear that this Master’s Collection is all about the present and future, as it showcases the best of Woodford Reserve’s craftsmanship and dedication to quality.
Table of Contents
Woodford Reserve Very Fine and Rare Bourbon Overview
Woodford Reserve Very Fine and Rare Bourbon is a premium bourbon whiskey that is highly sought after by whiskey enthusiasts. As the name suggests, this bourbon is very fine and rare and is made using high-quality ingredients and traditional distilling methods. In this section, I will provide an overview of Woodford Reserve Very Fine and Rare Bourbon, including its product history and price range.
Product History
Woodford Reserve Very Fine and Rare Bourbon is part of the Woodford Reserve Master’s Collection, which is a series of limited edition bourbons that are released annually. This particular bourbon has since become one of the most popular and highly regarded bourbons on the market.
The Master Distiller at Woodford Reserve, Chris Morris, created this bourbon as a tribute to the highly-aged bourbon barrel lots that were auctioned off by our ancestors. The name “Very Fine and Rare” is a nod to these descriptors and a testament to the quality and rarity of this bourbon.
Price Range
Woodford Reserve Very Fine and Rare Bourbon is a premium bourbon, and as such, it is priced accordingly. The price of a bottle of this bourbon can vary depending on a number of factors, including the age of the whiskey, the rarity of the batch, and the location where it is sold.
On average, a bottle of Woodford Reserve Very Fine and Rare Bourbon can cost anywhere from $300 to $500. However, it is not uncommon for some bottles to sell for thousands of dollars at auction. Despite its high price point, many whiskey enthusiasts consider this bourbon to be a worthwhile investment due to its exceptional quality and rarity.
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Tasting Notes
As I poured the Woodford Reserve Very Fine and Rare Bourbon into my glass, I was immediately struck by its medium-amber color. The aroma wafting up from the glass was a complex blend of vanilla, honey, fruit, and oak, with just a hint of spice.
Aroma
The aroma of this bourbon is rich and inviting, with notes of vanilla, citrus, and honey. The scent is complex and layered, with just a hint of spice.
Flavor
On the palate, the Woodford Reserve Very Fine and Rare Bourbon is smooth and full-bodied, with flavors of citrus, apple, vanilla, and oak. There is a subtle sweetness to the bourbon, which is balanced by a hint of spice and a touch of bitterness.
Finish
The finish of this bourbon is long and satisfying, with lingering flavors of fruit, vanilla, and oak. There is a subtle warmth to the finish, which is balanced by a hint of spice and a touch of bitterness.
Rating
Overall, I would rate the Woodford Reserve Very Fine and Rare Bourbon an 8 out of 10. This is an excellent bourbon that is well-balanced and complex, with a rich aroma and a satisfying finish. While it is on the pricier side, I believe it is worth the investment for anyone who appreciates a good bourbon.
Mixing and Pairing
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Best Mixers
When it comes to mixing Woodford Reserve Very Fine and Rare Bourbon, it’s important to use quality ingredients that will complement the flavors of the bourbon. Here are some of the best mixers to use:
- Bitters: Angostura and orange bitters are great options to add complexity and depth to your cocktail.
- Vermouth: Sweet vermouth is a classic pairing with bourbon, but you can also try using dry vermouth for a lighter, more refreshing drink.
- Syrups: Simple syrup, honey syrup, and maple syrup are all delicious options to add sweetness to your cocktail.
photo credit: www.woodfordreserve.com
Cocktail Suggestions
Here are some cocktail suggestions that will showcase the unique flavors of Woodford Reserve Very Fine and Rare Bourbon:
- Old Fashioned: A classic cocktail that highlights the bourbon’s rich, complex flavors. Mix 2 oz of Woodford Reserve with a sugar cube, a few dashes of bitters, and a splash of water. Garnish with an orange peel and a cherry.
- Manhattan: Another classic cocktail that pairs well with Woodford Reserve. Mix 2 oz of bourbon with 1 oz of sweet vermouth and a dash of bitters. Stir with ice and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a cherry.
- Boulevardier: A twist on the classic Negroni, this cocktail combines Woodford Reserve with Campari and sweet vermouth. Mix 1.5 oz of bourbon, 1 oz of Campari, and 1 oz of sweet vermouth. Stir with ice and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with an orange peel.
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Food Pairings
Woodford Reserve Very Fine and Rare Bourbon pairs well with a variety of foods, from rich meats to decadent desserts. Here are some food pairings to try:
- Steak: The bold flavors of Woodford Reserve complement the richness of a perfectly cooked steak.
- Dark chocolate: The bourbon’s notes of dark fruit and chocolate make it a natural pairing with dark chocolate.
- Pecan pie: The nutty flavors of pecan pie are enhanced by the bourbon’s caramel and vanilla notes.
Conclusion
Woodford Reserve Very Fine and Rare Bourbon is a complex and rich bourbon with a lot of character. It is a great addition to any bourbon lover’s collection. It’s a bit pricey, but the complex flavors and rich character make it worth the investment. If you’re looking for a bourbon that’s both approachable and complex, give Woodford Reserve Very Fine and Rare Bourbon a try.
Related Posts
If you enjoyed my review of Woodford Reserve Very Fine and Rare Bourbon, then you might also be interested in reading more about other whiskies and spirits. Here are some related posts that you might enjoy:
- Weekly Review: Claxton’s Rioja-matured Bruichladdich: A review of a unique Bruichladdich whisky that has been matured in Rioja wine casks.
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- £16.000 Black Bowmore 50 Year Old Hits The Market: A news article about the release of a highly exclusive and expensive whisky, the Black Bowmore 50 Year Old.