As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to try a wide range of bourbons and ryes. When a salesperson suggested I try Woodford Reserve rye, I was initially hesitant. I have always been a fan of Bulleit, and it is my go-to choice when it comes to rye whiskey. However, I decided to give Woodford Reserve a try, and I must say, I was pleasantly surprised.
The first thing that struck me about Woodford Reserve rye is its delightful sweetness. It has a nice balance of sweetness without being overly sugary. The flavors are well-rounded and harmonious, making it a pleasure to sip on. The sweetness is not overpowering, allowing the other flavors to shine through.
Speaking of flavors, Woodford Reserve rye has a complexity that I appreciate. It offers a depth of flavors that keep you intrigued with each sip. I detected notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice, which added a nice dimension to the overall taste profile. The spice, in particular, was not overwhelming but rather provided a pleasant warmth.
In terms of the overall experience, Woodford Reserve rye delivers on both taste and aroma. The nose is inviting, with hints of oak and spice. When sipping it, the smoothness is evident, and it goes down easily. The finish is satisfying, with a lingering warmth and a touch of sweetness that leaves you wanting more.
Now, while I thoroughly enjoyed Woodford Reserve rye, I must admit that I still have a preference for Bulleit rye. There is a certain boldness and robustness to Bulleit that I find irresistible. However, that is not to say that Woodford Reserve is any less impressive. In fact, I would gladly purchase it again if my first choice is not available.
To summarize, Woodford Reserve rye is a very good bourbon. It offers a pleasant sweetness without being overly sweet and a well-balanced flavor profile. The complexity of flavors, smoothness, and satisfying finish make it a worthy contender in the world of rye whiskeys. While I may still lean towards Bulleit as my top choice, I would not hesitate to recommend Woodford Reserve to others seeking a quality rye whiskey.