Woodford Reserve is not classified as a wheated bourbon, as it does not meet the legal definition for that designation. However, it does incorporate a significant amount of wheat in its grain bill, making it a unique and interesting whiskey.
When we talk about wheated bourbon, we are referring to bourbons that use wheat as the secondary grain instead of rye. The traditional bourbon grain bill consists of corn as the dominant grain, followed by malted barley and either rye or wheat as the secondary grain. In the case of Woodford Reserve, the grain bill is composed of 52% wheat, 20% malt, 20% corn, and 8% rye.
This high wheat content gives Woodford Reserve Wheat a distinct flavor profile compared to other bourbons. The use of wheat instead of rye brings out more subtle and delicate flavors, with a focus on fruit and floral notes. The wheat contributes to a smoother and softer mouthfeel, resulting in a whiskey that is approachable and easy to drink.
I had the opportunity to taste Woodford Reserve Wheat recently, and I was impressed by its unique character. The fruit and floral flavors were indeed prominent, with hints of ripe apples, pears, and a delicate floral bouquet. The whiskey had a pleasant sweetness, balanced by a touch of spice from the rye. It was incredibly smooth on the palate, with a velvety texture that lingered on the finish.
Woodford Reserve Wheat is a testament to the distillery's commitment to crafting high-quality and innovative whiskeys. By incorporating a higher percentage of wheat in the mash bill, they have created a bourbon that stands out from the crowd and offers a different tasting experience.
While Woodford Reserve Wheat is not technically classified as a wheated bourbon, it does incorporate a significant amount of wheat in its grain bill. This choice of grains gives the whiskey its unique flavor profile, with a focus on fruit and floral notes, a smooth mouthfeel, and a balanced sweetness. It is a fantastic example of the distillery's craftsmanship and innovation in the world of bourbon.