What Does Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Taste Like?
Some bourbons are described as having notes of caramel and vanilla, but Woodford Reserve Double Oaked tastes like it was made from them. Often called "dessert in a glass," this whiskey is defined by its deep, sweet, and incredibly smooth character. It’s the kind of bourbon that makes you want to slow down and savor every sip. The magic comes from its unique finishing process, where the fully mature bourbon is aged a second time in a deeply toasted, lightly charred barrel. This draws out intense notes of honey, dark chocolate, and toasted marshmallow, creating a complex and satisfying profile. If you’re looking for a rich, approachable, and luxurious pour, this is it.
Key Takeaways
- The Second Barrel is the Secret: Double Oaked's signature smoothness comes from being aged a second time in a deeply toasted, lightly charred barrel. This unique finishing process creates its deep amber color and layers of sweet oak and caramel.
- Expect a Rich, Dessert-Like Flavor: This bourbon is known for its sweet and decadent profile, with notes of dark fruit, vanilla, toasted marshmallow, and chocolate. It's an excellent choice if you enjoy a complex, full-bodied whiskey that’s more sweet than spicy.
- An Approachable and Versatile Premium Pour: To fully appreciate its complexity, try it neat before adding a large ice cube or building a classic Old Fashioned. For its quality and craftsmanship, it offers fantastic value as an accessible step into more luxurious bourbons.
What Makes Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Special?
If you’ve ever wondered what sets Woodford Reserve Double Oaked apart from other bourbons on the shelf, the secret is right in its name. This isn't just a clever marketing term; it points to a unique finishing process that completely transforms the spirit. While most bourbon gets its flavor from aging in a single, new charred oak barrel as required by law, Double Oaked goes a step further. It’s aged twice, a technique that adds an incredible layer of depth and complexity.
This innovative "twice-barreled" method is what gives the bourbon its remarkably rich and smooth character. Think of it as a finishing touch that adds layers of flavor you won't find in its classic counterpart. The first aging period builds the foundational bourbon notes we all know and love—caramel, vanilla, and a hint of spice. But the second round introduces a whole new dimension of sweetness and toasted oak. It’s this commitment to a second maturation that makes Double Oaked a standout in the world of premium whiskey and a favorite among those who appreciate a smoother, more decadent sip. It’s a beautiful example of how distillers can play with tradition to create something truly memorable.
Understanding the Double-Barreling Process
So, what does "double-barreling" actually mean? It’s quite straightforward. The bourbon begins its life just like the original Woodford Reserve, maturing in a brand-new, charred white oak barrel. This first step imparts the classic notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice. But instead of being bottled after this initial aging, the mature bourbon is transferred to a second, specially prepared barrel for a finishing period. This extra step, which lasts for about a year, is where the magic really happens. This unique aging process allows the spirit to interact with a different set of wood characteristics, profoundly changing its final flavor profile.
How the Second Barrel Shapes Its Flavor
The second barrel isn't just a repeat of the first. It’s crafted with a specific goal in mind: to draw out softer, sweeter flavors. Before this barrel is charred, it’s deeply toasted. This toasting process caramelizes the natural sugars in the wood, and the subsequent light char creates a perfect environment for the bourbon to pull out those rich flavors. The result is a spirit with intense notes of honey, vanilla, and toasted marshmallow, balanced by hints of dark chocolate and baked fruit. This careful treatment is what gives Double Oaked its signature smoothness and deep, amber color, creating a beautifully balanced and approachable bourbon.
Double Oaked vs. Original Woodford Reserve
When you taste Double Oaked next to the original Woodford Reserve Distiller's Select, the differences are clear. Thanks to its time in that second barrel, Double Oaked is noticeably sweeter, richer, and has a much more pronounced oak character. While the original is celebrated for its balanced and versatile profile, Double Oaked is more of a dessert-in-a-glass experience. This extra craftsmanship is also reflected in the price; Double Oaked typically sits at a premium compared to the standard offering. It’s a trade-off many bourbon lovers are happy to make for a more luxurious and complex spirit.
What Does Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Taste Like?
If you're curious about what sets Woodford Reserve Double Oaked apart, the answer is all in the taste. It’s a remarkably rich and layered bourbon, offering a deep and satisfying experience that goes beyond your standard pour. This isn't just a spirit; it's a masterclass in flavor development, where a unique aging process creates a profile that is both complex and incredibly approachable. Let's explore the specific notes you can expect, from the first scent to the final, lingering finish.
Tasting Notes: Sweet Oak, Caramel, and Dark Fruit
From the first sip, Double Oaked greets you with a full-bodied and velvety texture. The dominant flavors are a beautiful blend of sweet oak, rich vanilla, and deep, dark caramel. As it settles on your palate, you’ll notice hints of hazelnut and a medley of fruits, like crisp apple and ripe dark berries. Layers of milk chocolate and warm baking spices round out the experience, creating a harmonious balance that is both sweet and complex. It’s the kind of whiskey that invites you to take your time, discovering a new nuance with every taste.
Breaking Down the Aroma and Finish
Before you even take a sip, the aroma sets the stage for what’s to come. You’ll be met with inviting scents of dark fruit, honey, and rich caramel, all mingling with notes of chocolate, marzipan, and toasted oak. It’s a warm and complex bouquet that promises a rewarding tasting experience. The finish delivers on that promise, lingering long after the last sip. It’s exceptionally smooth and creamy, leaving you with a pleasant, honeyed-apple note that perfectly completes the journey. This thoughtful progression from aroma to finish is what makes it such a well-regarded spirit.
Why Two Barrels Create More Complexity
The secret to Double Oaked's incredible depth lies in its innovative aging process. This bourbon is matured in two separate, new charred oak barrels—a method that Woodford Reserve has perfected. After aging in the first standard barrel, the whiskey is moved to a second one that has been deeply toasted before a light charring. This second barreling is key, as it allows the spirit to extract additional soft, sweet oak character. The result is a bourbon with an enhanced sweetness, a richer color, and a more complex flavor profile than its single-barreled counterparts.
How Does Double Oaked Compare to Other Premium Bourbons?
When you're exploring the world of premium bourbons, it can be tough to know which bottle offers something truly different. Woodford Reserve Double Oaked has carved out a special place for itself, not just through marketing, but through a distinct production process that you can actually taste. It sits comfortably in the premium category, offering a richer, more intense experience than many single-barrel bourbons at a similar price. But what really sets it apart is the craftsmanship, the value it delivers, and the critical acclaim it has earned from experts who know their whiskey. Let's look at how it stacks up against the competition.
Comparing Quality and Craftsmanship
What makes Double Oaked stand out is its unique "twice-barreled" method. The journey begins with the classic Woodford Reserve Distiller's Select, which has a mash bill of 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% malted barley. After it's fully matured in a new charred oak barrel, it's moved into a second custom-toasted and lightly charred barrel for about another year. This second step is where the magic happens. While most bourbons draw all their character from a single barrel, this innovative process allows Double Oaked to develop deeper notes of sweet oak, vanilla, and dark caramel. It’s this commitment to a more complex aging process that defines its superior craftsmanship.
Is It Worth the Price?
Let’s talk about value. With a price tag typically sitting between $50 and $60, Woodford Reserve Double Oaked is positioned as an accessible premium bourbon. It’s a step up from standard offerings, but it won’t require you to dip into your savings the way some rare and hard-to-find bottles do. Considering the extra time and resources required for its double-barreling process, the price feels more than fair. You're paying for a genuinely unique production method that delivers a noticeably richer and smoother flavor profile. For anyone looking to explore a more complex and decadent bourbon without a huge financial commitment, Double Oaked offers fantastic value.
Awards and Accolades
You don't just have to take my word for it—the experts agree. Woodford Reserve Double Oaked consistently receives high praise in the competitive world of premium spirits. It proudly wears a Double Gold medal from the 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, one of the most respected contests in the industry. On top of that, it earned an impressive 90-point rating from the critics at Whisky Advocate magazine. These awards aren't just shiny stickers on a bottle; they are a strong indicator of quality and consistency. When a bourbon wins accolades like these, it confirms that it delivers a truly exceptional drinking experience that stands out even among the best.
What Do the Experts Say About Double Oaked?
When a bourbon generates as much conversation as Double Oaked, it’s helpful to hear what both professional critics and everyday drinkers are saying. From formal reviews to spirited debates online, people have a lot of opinions on this unique bottle. Here’s a look at the consensus and a few things you should know before you pour a glass.
What the Critics Say
Professionals often point to the innovative double-barreling process as the star of the show. This extra step is credited with giving the bourbon its remarkably rich and deep flavor profile. Official tasting notes from Woodford Reserve mention a deep amber color and a complex aroma filled with dark fruit, caramel, honey, and toasted oak. On the palate, critics describe a full-bodied and creamy texture with a long, smooth finish. It’s this balance of sweetness and spice that makes it a standout whiskey in many expert reviews, earning praise for its approachable yet sophisticated character.
What Bourbon Drinkers Think
Among bourbon enthusiasts, Double Oaked is a bottle that inspires passion. While its sweeter, oak-forward profile might not be for everyone, it has a massive and loyal following. Many drinkers consider it a go-to for a consistently delicious pour. The aroma is frequently highlighted as a favorite feature, with drinkers noting scents of maple syrup and rich chocolate. Its popularity is undeniable, and fans are known to buy it up quickly whenever it hits the shelves. This widespread appreciation has turned it into a modern classic that many believe every bourbon lover should try at least once.
Clearing Up Common Misconceptions
With any popular spirit, a few myths are bound to pop up. One common misconception about Double Oaked is that it’s aged in three barrels, but the magic actually happens in just two. After maturing in a standard new charred oak barrel, it’s moved to a second, deeply toasted and lightly charred barrel to finish. This second step is what imparts its signature sweet oak notes. Another point of confusion is its age; some assume it’s aged longer than other bourbons, but the double-barreling technique is more about finishing than extended maturation. Understanding this process helps you appreciate the craftsmanship behind every sip of this unique spirit.
Where to Buy Double Oaked (And What to Pay)
Once you’ve decided to try Woodford Reserve Double Oaked, the next step is finding a bottle. Because of its popularity, it’s widely available, but the price can vary. Knowing what to expect and where to look can help you get the best value for this exceptional bourbon. Whether you're adding it to your home bar or buying it as a gift, here’s what you need to know about purchasing a bottle.
Understanding the Price Tag
Woodford Reserve Double Oaked is considered a premium bourbon, and its price reflects the extra time and craftsmanship involved in its unique aging process. You can generally expect to find a 750ml bottle for between $50 and $65. While this is a step up from the standard Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select, the added complexity and richness make it a fantastic value for the quality. It hits that sweet spot of being an accessible luxury—a special bottle that doesn’t require a special occasion to open. Think of it as an affordable way to explore the world of high-end whiskey.
Finding It Online
Thanks to its solid reputation, finding Double Oaked is fairly straightforward. The easiest way to get a bottle is to buy it online and have it delivered right to your door. We carry it right here at Main Street Liquor, where you can browse our full collection of premium spirits. For those who prefer to shop in person, the official Woodford Reserve website has a helpful "Find in a Store" feature to locate retailers near you. Most well-stocked liquor stores will have it on their shelves, making it a reliable choice you can almost always find.
Tips for Getting the Best Deal
A little bit of savvy shopping can go a long way. When buying online, keep an eye out for shipping promotions or special offers. Some retailers offer flat-rate shipping or memberships that provide free delivery, which can save you money if you purchase spirits regularly. It’s also a good idea to sign up for newsletters from your favorite online stores to get alerts about sales and exclusive deals. Finally, consider purchasing around the holidays, as you might find special gift sets that include glassware or other extras for the same price as a standalone bottle.
How to Best Enjoy Woodford Reserve Double Oaked
With its deep, complex character, Woodford Reserve Double Oaked is a bourbon that invites you to slow down and savor it. Its rich profile makes it incredibly versatile, shining on its own or as the foundation of a classic cocktail. Whether you're settling in for the evening or sharing a bottle with friends, here are a few ways to get the most out of every sip.
The Right Way to Drink It: Neat, Rocks, or Cocktail?
To fully appreciate the intricate flavors developed during the double-barreling process, I always recommend trying this bourbon neat first. Pour a measure into a Glencairn or Old Fashioned glass and let it sit for a moment. This allows the aromas to open up before you take a sip. If you want to explore its character further, add a few drops of water. This slightly lowers the proof and can soften the alcohol's edge, bringing forward more subtle notes of fruit and spice.
If you prefer your whisk(e)y chilled, serve it over a single, large ice cube. A large cube melts slower, cooling the drink without diluting its rich flavor too quickly. While its bold profile makes it a fantastic sipper, it also builds an incredible Old Fashioned or Manhattan, lending a deep sweetness and oaky backbone to the cocktail.
Perfect Food Pairings to Try
Often called "dessert in a glass," Woodford Reserve Double Oaked has a natural affinity for sweet and rich foods. Its notes of caramel, dark chocolate, and toasted marshmallow make it a perfect match for desserts. Try pairing it with a slice of dark chocolate torte, a caramel-drizzled cheesecake, or even a simple bowl of vanilla bean ice cream. The bourbon’s sweetness complements these treats without being overwhelming.
On the savory side, you need flavors that can stand up to its intensity. Think of foods with rich, smoky, or salty profiles. It’s fantastic alongside aged cheeses like sharp cheddar or gouda, a plate of charcuterie, or even smoked almonds. For a full meal, its robust character holds its own against barbecued brisket or glazed pork ribs, cutting through the richness and creating a beautifully balanced pairing.
Is This Bourbon Right for You?
If you enjoy bourbons with a prominent oak influence and a sweeter, more dessert-like flavor profile, Double Oaked is an excellent choice. It’s for the drinker who appreciates a rich, smooth, and complex spirit that tells a story with every sip. Fans of the original Woodford Reserve who are looking for a deeper, more intense expression will find a lot to love here.
It’s important to note that this bottle comes at a premium compared to many standard bourbons. Think of it as an accessible luxury—a perfect bottle for celebrating a special occasion, giving as a thoughtful gift, or simply treating yourself. If your palate leans toward bold, oak-forward, and slightly sweet spirits, then Woodford Reserve Double Oaked is absolutely worth exploring.
Related Articles
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Woodford Reserve Double Oaked a good choice for someone new to bourbon? Absolutely. While it has a lot of complexity that seasoned drinkers appreciate, its profile is very smooth, rich, and leans toward the sweeter side. The notes of caramel, vanilla, and chocolate are very inviting and easy to enjoy. It lacks the harsh burn that can sometimes turn newcomers off, making it a fantastic and approachable introduction to the world of premium bourbon.
What's the simplest way to describe the difference between Double Oaked and the original Woodford Reserve? Think of Double Oaked as the richer, sweeter, and more decadent version of the original. While the classic Woodford Reserve is a beautifully balanced, all-purpose bourbon, Double Oaked gets extra time in a second, deeply toasted barrel. This extra step amplifies the sweet oak, vanilla, and dark fruit notes, giving it a dessert-like quality and a much smoother finish.
Is it a waste to use a premium bourbon like this in a cocktail? Not at all! While I always suggest trying it neat first to appreciate its character, Double Oaked makes an incredible cocktail. Its bold, sweet profile stands up beautifully in spirit-forward drinks. It creates a truly memorable Old Fashioned or Manhattan, adding a layer of richness and oak that you just can't get from a standard bourbon. It's not a waste; it's an upgrade.
Why is it more expensive than the standard Woodford Reserve? The higher price comes down to the extra time and resources needed for its unique finishing process. Creating that second, custom-toasted barrel and aging the bourbon a second time requires more labor, more materials, and more warehouse space. You're paying for that additional step in craftsmanship, which is directly responsible for its richer flavor and exceptional smoothness.
What's one food pairing you'd absolutely recommend trying with it? If I had to pick just one, I would pair it with a simple, high-quality dark chocolate bar with a touch of sea salt. The bourbon’s deep caramel and toasted marshmallow notes are a perfect match for the rich, slightly bitter chocolate, and the salt helps cut through the sweetness of both. It’s a simple pairing that really highlights the best qualities of the spirit.