Woodford Reserve

Woodford Reserve is one of Kentucky’s most distinguished bourbon brands, celebrated for its rich, full-bodied flavour and deep connection to American whiskey history. Produced at the historic Woodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, Kentucky, a National Historic Landmark, the brand combines traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation to create a versatile, premium bourbon portfolio.

Although the Woodford Reserve brand was introduced in 1996 by Brown-Forman, the distillery site itself dates back to 1812, making it one of the oldest continuously used distilling locations in the United States. Over its two-century history, it has been home to pioneering bourbon makers, survived Prohibition, and evolved into a leading example of small-batch Kentucky bourbon production.

Production Philosophy

Woodford Reserve prides itself on crafting bourbon in small batches, ensuring a high level of quality control. The distillery is notable for using a triple distillation process in traditional copper pot stills — unusual in Kentucky bourbon-making, where column stills dominate. This method creates an exceptionally smooth and refined spirit.

The mash bill, 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% malted barley, is designed to balance sweetness, spice, and nuttiness. Fermentation takes place in cypress wood fermenters, which are less reactive than stainless steel and help maintain a consistent flavour profile. The spirit is matured in new, charred American oak barrels stored in stone warehouses that regulate temperature more slowly than metal rickhouses, influencing the bourbon’s gradual flavour development.

The higher rye content compared to many bourbons gives the flagship whiskey a distinct spice backbone, while still delivering the sweetness expected from a premium Kentucky straight bourbon.

Awards and Recognition

Woodford Reserve has earned multiple gold medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, and its Double Oaked and Rye expressions are highly rated by both critics and consumers. The brand’s reputation is built on consistent quality, stylish presentation, and a flavour profile that appeals to both bourbon newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts.

Our Woodford Reserve selection covers the core range and, when available, limited releases from the Master’s Collection and Distillery Series. Whether you enjoy your bourbon neat, on the rocks, or in a classic cocktail like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan, Woodford Reserve delivers depth, elegance, and a taste of Kentucky’s rich whiskey heritage in every sip.