Woodford Reserve is indeed made in Kentucky. Specifically, it is produced at the Woodford Reserve Distillery, which is located in Versailles, Kentucky. The distillery itself is nestled among the rolling hills of the Bluegrass region, creating a picturesque setting for the production of this world-renowned bourbon.
Woodford Reserve takes great pride in its Kentucky roots and the tradition of bourbon making that has been ingrained in the state for centuries. The distillery is a testament to the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into producing their exceptional whiskeys.
One of the key aspects of Woodford Reserve's production process is the use of pot distillation. Pot distillation is a traditional method that involves heating a large copper pot still and capturing the vapors that are produced. This method allows for greater control over the distillation process and can result in a more complex and flavorful whiskey.
In fact, the entirety of the whiskey in Woodford's Master's Collection is the product of this pot distillation. This collection showcases the artistry and innovation of Woodford Reserve's distillers, as they experiment with different grains, yeast strains, and aging techniques to create unique expressions of their bourbon.
For its main portfolio, Woodford Reserve blends the pot-distilled whiskey with column-distilled whiskey produced at the Brown-Forman Distillery in Louisville, Kentucky. This combination of pot and column distillation allows for a balance between the rich flavors and aromas derived from the pot distillation process and the smoothness and consistency that column distillation can provide.
The result is a bourbon that is smooth, rich, and full of character. Woodford Reserve has become known for its well-balanced flavor profile, featuring notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and spice. It is a bourbon that can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a variety of cocktails.
Personally, I have had the pleasure of visiting the Woodford Reserve Distillery and experiencing firsthand the passion and craftsmanship that goes into making their bourbon. From the moment you step onto the grounds, you can feel the history and tradition that surrounds you.
The distillery tour is a comprehensive and educational experience, taking you through the entire production process from the milling of the grains to the aging of the whiskey in the iconic barrel warehouses. It is fascinating to see the attention to detail and the commitment to quality that is evident at every step of the process.
Woodford Reserve is indeed made in Kentucky, at the Woodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles. The distillery's use of pot distillation, combined with column distillation at the Brown-Forman Distillery, results in a bourbon that is both flavorful and smooth. Its Kentucky roots and commitment to tradition make Woodford Reserve a true representation of the art of bourbon making.