I’m always on the lookout for new and exciting offerings to add to my collection or to savor during special occasions. On this journey, I recently came across Woodinville Cask Strength Straight Bourbon, which is produced by Washington State’s craft distillery, Woodinville Whiskey Company. This relatively young distillery has already earned a well-deserved reputation for creating flavor-packed bourbons that challenge the notion that only heritage brands from Kentucky can deliver a memorable experience.

Woodinville’s Cask Strength Straight Bourbon caught my attention due to its rich and alluring characteristics. This unique expression is aged for at least four years and combines sweet and high rye earthy profiles, creating a surprisingly delightful experience. What truly sets it apart is the dense caramel and fruit notes that few craft bourbons, or even many other bourbons, can boast.

Woodinville Cask Strength Straight Bourbon Whiskey Overview

Product History

I discovered that Woodinville Cask Strength Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a product of the Woodinville Whiskey Company, located in Washington State, USA. This distillery has been known for producing high-quality bourbon and rye whiskeys since its establishment. They use grains sourced from the Omlin Family Farm in Quincy, Washington, and are committed to creating hand-crafted, unique spirits.

The bourbon has been well-received by whiskey enthusiasts and critics alike, winning multiple awards such as the Double Platinum at the 2022 ASCOT Awards and Double Gold at the 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

Price Range

Woodinville Cask Strength Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a premium offering from the distillery. The suggested retail price (MSRP) for Woodinville Cask Strength Straight Bourbon Whiskey is $80. However, the actual price may vary depending on the retailer and the location. Since it is only available at the distillery, the price ranges depending on the local market and demand.

Tasting Notes

Aroma

On the nose, the Woodinville Cask Strength Straight Bourbon offers a delightful medley of aromas. As I take it in, I’m pleasantly greeted by the scent of charred oak barrels, which have been seasoned to perfection. The aroma of rich caramel and sweet vanilla intermingle with earthy, herbal notes, and I can’t help but detect a hint of green grape and fruity apples. There’s a subtle, rainy freshness to the smell that makes it truly inviting.

Flavor

Upon taking a sip of this small-batch bourbon, the flavors are as complex and enjoyable as the aroma promised. The toasted oak and charred nature come through strongly, while the traditional blend of grains – corn, malted barley, and rye – creates a harmonious symphony of tastes. I can identify caramel, smooth honey, and warm cinnamon dancing on my palate, alongside the gentle spice and tannin from the seasoned oak.

Finish

The finish of this Woodinville Cask Strength Straight Bourbon is a satisfying experience. It has a medium body and lingers just long enough to leave a lasting impression. The flavors of oak, vanilla, and caramel taper gently, while the tannin and spices continue to deliver a pleasant warmth. The earthy and rain-like aromas remain present even as the sip comes to a close.

Rating

I would give this bourbon a solid 8 out of 10.

This Woodinville Cask Strength Straight Bourbon offers a well-crafted balance of flavors that make it a great choice for bourbon enthusiasts. While the NAS (non-age statement) bourbon lacks a specific age designation, its amber color suggests a maturity that is present in each element of the tasting experience. I’d be more than happy to enjoy another sample of this bourbon and recommend it to others.

Mixing and Pairing

As someone who enjoys a good bourbon, I’m always looking for the best way to enhance its flavors and explore new pairings that elevate my experience. When it comes to Woodinville Cask Strength Straight Bourbon, a craft bourbon from Kentucky with a unique profile, I’ve found some interesting mixers, cocktails, and food pairings that bring out the best in this high-quality spirit.

Best Mixers

Woodinville Cask Strength Straight Bourbon has a high rye content in its mash bill, which adds a spicy kick to its flavor profile. To complement its taste, I recommend the following mixers:

• Cherry or apricot juice: The sweetness of these fruit juices pairs well with the bourbon’s dark fruit and cocoa tasting notes.
• Ginger ale: The subtle spice in ginger ale complements the rye whiskey component, adding a refreshing twist to the mix.
• Club soda: For a lighter option, club soda allows the bourbon’s natural flavors to shine through without overpowering them.

Cocktail Suggestions

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When it comes to cocktails, Woodinville Cask Strength Straight Bourbon’s unique flavors lend themselves well to classic concoctions with a twist. Here are a few of my favorite cocktail recipes to try:

• Old Fashioned: Muddle a sugar cube with a couple dashes of bitters, and add a splash of cherry or apricot juice for a fruity twist on this classic. Add in the bourbon, stir, and garnish with an orange peel and maraschino cherry.
• Bourbon Sour: Combine the bourbon with freshly squeezed lemon juice, simple syrup, and an egg white to create a frothy, tangy concoction that highlights the bourbon’s nutty and toffee notes.
• Mint Julep: Muddle fresh mint leaves with simple syrup, then pour in the bourbon and top with crushed ice. The mint flavors enhance the bourbon’s existing clove, licorice, and leather characteristics, making for a refreshing sip.

Food Pairings

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When it comes to food, I like to choose dishes that either contrast with or complement the flavors in Woodinville Cask Strength Straight Bourbon. Here are a few pairings I’ve enjoyed:

• Grilled or smoked meats: The smoky, charred flavors of grilled or smoked meats help to highlight the bourbon’s grainy undertones and 90 proof heat.
• Sharp, aged cheeses: A strong cheese, such as aged cheddar or Gouda, cuts through the sweetness of the bourbon and showcases its darker, richer flavors.
• Dark chocolate or chocolate-based desserts: The intense cocoa notes in both the bourbon and the chocolate create a harmonious and indulgent pairing that’s perfect for an after-dinner treat.

Conclusion

Woodinville Cask Strength Straight Bourbon is a unique hand-crafted spirit that truly delivers on its promise. The Woodinville® Distillery has done a great job of using barrel wood and the open air conditions of wind, sun, and snow to create a bourbon that stands out amongst its peers.

Comparing Woodinville’s craft offering to major distilleries, especially around the Seattle area, I can confidently say that they are in a league of their own. In fact, it’s not just me; several other groups and reviewers have praised the flavorful and high rye earthy character of this bourbon.

I can definitely say that this bourbon has a distinct and memorable flavor that reminds me of pears, making it an enjoyable experience overall. Looking forward, I believe the Woodinville Cask Strength Straight Bourbon has a bright future in the world of whiskey.