Woodford Reserve Master's Collection Super Seasoned Oak Series No. 22 is a limited edition Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey bottled at 100.4 proof, showcasing the transformative influence of extended oak seasoning on traditional bourbon character. This exceptional expression demonstrates how prolonged air-drying of oak staves intensifies wood sugars and mellows harsh tannins, creating a more harmonious marriage between grain and barrel.
From the storied Woodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, Kentucky, the Master's Collection represents Brown-Forman's commitment to innovation within tradition. Each numbered series explores a different aspect of the whiskey-making craft, from unique grain bills to experimental aging techniques. This Super Seasoned Oak edition exemplifies master distiller Chris Morris's philosophy that great bourbon begins long before distillation—in this case, with oak staves seasoned far beyond industry standards.
Tasting Notes
- Nose: Honeyed vanilla bean, toasted almonds, dried orange peel, subtle baking spices, rich caramel
- Palate: Creamy butterscotch, dark chocolate, cinnamon bark, candied pecans, maple syrup depth
- Finish: Long finish with lingering oak tannins, warm spice, and hints of leather and tobacco leaf
Product Details
| Spirit Type | Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey |
|---|---|
| ABV | 50.2% (100.4 Proof) |
| Volume | 700mL |
| Age Statement | No Age Statement |
| Distillery | Woodford Reserve Distillery |
| Region | Versailles, Kentucky |
| Barrel Type | Super Seasoned Oak |
| Series | Master's Collection No. 22 |
Perfect For
- Collectors: Limited edition Master's Collection series piece for bourbon enthusiasts
- Contemplative Sipping: Complex profile rewards slow, thoughtful appreciation neat or with a splash of water
- Special Occasions: Celebrating milestones with a premium American whiskey
- Bourbon Education: Understanding oak's transformative role in whiskey maturation
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Woodford Reserve Master's Collection Super Seasoned Oak taste like?
This bourbon delivers rich honeyed vanilla and butterscotch flavors with pronounced oak influence, featuring notes of dark chocolate, cinnamon spice, and candied nuts. The super seasoned oak creates deeper caramel complexity and smoother tannin integration compared to standard bourbon aging.
Is Woodford Reserve Master's Collection good for cocktails?
While this premium limited edition bourbon works beautifully in spirit-forward cocktails like Old Fashioneds or Manhattans, its complexity and collectible nature make it best appreciated neat or with minimal dilution to showcase the unique super seasoned oak character.
How should I drink Woodford Reserve Master's Collection?
Serve neat in a Glencairn glass or tumbler at room temperature to fully appreciate the super seasoned oak influence. A few drops of water can open up additional flavor layers, but avoid ice which may mute the subtle oak nuances that define this expression.
What makes the super seasoned oak different from regular bourbon aging?
Super seasoned oak involves extended air-drying of barrel staves beyond standard industry practices, allowing natural weathering to break down harsh tannins while concentrating wood sugars. This creates more integrated oak flavors and enhanced vanilla and caramel notes in the finished bourbon.
Is Woodford Reserve Master's Collection worth the investment?
For bourbon collectors and enthusiasts interested in understanding oak's impact on whiskey, this limited Master's Collection release offers exceptional value. The super seasoned oak process creates unique flavor profiles unavailable in standard expressions, making it both an educational and collectible bottle.
You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.