Woodford Reserve – Double Oaked: This Bourbon Changed My Life
Every bourbon lover has that one bottle—the one that opened the door to a lifelong passion, the one that turned curiosity into obsession. For me, that bottle is Woodford Reserve – Double Oaked. It wasn’t just the bourbon that changed my life; it was the experience of discovering how a single pour could be so rich, complex, and satisfying. Woodford Double Oaked is more than just a bottle to me—it was the key that unlocked the world of bourbon.
At 90.4 proof, this offering from Woodford Reserve Distillery stands out not just for its flavor but for the journey it takes you on. It’s an elevated version of the already well-regarded Woodford Reserve, taking the distillery’s traditional bourbon and finishing it in a second, heavily toasted oak barrel. The result? A deeply rich and cohesive flavor profile that delivers a layered, luxurious drinking experience.
The Leap of Faith: My First "Big" Bourbon Purchase
When I first started my journey into bourbon, my collection was modest, with budget-friendly options that gave me an introduction to the basics. But I remember eyeing Woodford Reserve – Double Oaked at the store, feeling both excited and a little intimidated. At $60–70, it was pricier than anything I had bought at the time. Still, I took the leap, and I’ve never looked back.
That decision changed everything. It was good enough to convince me that bourbon could be more than a drink—it could be an experience, something to savor, contemplate, and share. This bottle was the catalyst that expanded my collection and turned me into the bourbon enthusiast I am today.
The Nose: Spices and Vanilla in Perfect Harmony
From the first whiff, Woodford Reserve – Double Oaked promises something special. The nose is warm and inviting, with prominent notes of vanilla and baking spices. It’s a classic bourbon aroma, but the double oak finish gives it an extra layer of depth. It’s as if the spices have been slow-roasted, coaxing out a richness that’s both comforting and intriguing.
If you’ve ever walked into a bakery just as they’re pulling fresh cinnamon rolls out of the oven, you’ll have a sense of what this nose is like. It’s sweet, spiced, and undeniably enticing.
The Palate: Sweet Oak and Maple Syrup
The first sip of Woodford Reserve – Double Oaked is where things really start to get interesting. It hits your palate with a wave of sweet oak—bold and rich, yet smooth enough to feel approachable. There’s no mistaking that this bourbon has spent extra time in a second barrel, soaking up all those toasty, caramelized flavors.
As the sip evolves, it transforms into something reminiscent of maple syrup on pancakes. It’s thick, sweet, and mouth-coating, but never cloying. There’s a buttery quality here that adds to the sense of indulgence, making each sip feel like a treat. It’s one of those bourbons where the more you sip, the more you discover, and it always keeps you coming back for another taste.
For palate, I give Woodford Reserve – Double Oaked a solid 78. The flavors are cohesive, rich, and deeply satisfying. It’s not the most complex bourbon you’ll ever have, but the combination of sweet oak and maple makes it an easy one to love.
The Finish: Peanut Butter and Vanilla, Reeses Vibes
The finish is medium in length but doesn’t disappoint. As the maple and oak fade, you’re left with flavors of peanuts and vanilla, creating an experience that’s both nutty and creamy. Every so often, the combination gives off a subtle Reeses Cup vibe—peanut butter wrapped in sweet vanilla, a flavor combo that’s hard to resist.
It’s not a long finish, but it lingers just long enough to leave a lasting impression. For the finish, Woodford Reserve – Double Oaked gets a 74. It’s warm, cozy, and just nutty enough to stand out from the crowd. If you like the idea of dessert-like bourbons, this one’s for you.
Value: A Rich Experience at a Fair Price
For a bourbon of this caliber, the price is right in the sweet spot. You can usually find Woodford Reserve – Double Oaked for $60–70, which, given the quality of the pour, is a great deal. Single-barrel and small-batch bourbons often demand higher price tags, but this bottle offers a premium experience without hitting the triple digits.
For value, it scores a 79. You’re getting a rich, well-made bourbon that’s worth every penny, especially if you’re looking for a bottle to share with friends or celebrate a special occasion. It’s a bourbon that feels more expensive than it is, and that’s always a win.
Overall Score: 77 – A Life-Changing Bourbon
When all is said and done, Woodford Reserve – Double Oaked earns an overall score of 77. It’s not just a bottle; it’s an experience—a gateway into the deeper, more rewarding world of bourbon. It’s a pour that shows what a little extra aging and craftsmanship can do to take an already great bourbon and turn it into something exceptional.
Why You Should Pick Up a Bottle
If you’re on the hunt for a bourbon that can rekindle your excitement about whiskey, look no further than Woodford Reserve – Double Oaked. Whether you’re new to bourbon or have a seasoned collection, this bottle has something for everyone. Its rich, sweet oak flavors combined with a buttery maple syrup palate make it a joy to sip, and its approachable price point makes it an easy addition to any home bar.
This is the bourbon that changed my life, and if you give it a try, it just might change yours too.
