Woodford Reserve have long been admired for their excellent Bourbon and rye whiskies, yet this is something a little different. Released first in 2013 as part of their Master’s Collection, this is whiskey made entirely with 100% malted barley, forgoing the corn, rye and wheat that usually mix to make American whiskies. The Classic Malt was partnered with the Straight Malt release, which as aged in new American oak barrels. This whisky has been matured in former Bourbon American oak casks, giving a very different flavour profile. On the nose this whiskey is quite green and grassy, with aromas of fresh hay, unroasted malt, vanilla, summer berries, barrel char, malted toffee and tinned peaches. The palate is chewy and rich with green malt flavours. A wave of vanilla washes over the drinker’s mouth, followed by touches of apple pie, woodspice, fresh raspberries and malted milkshakes. The finish is long with a bright malt flavour and lasting vanilla. A very interesting experiment indeed from Woodford Reserve, this whiskey benefits from being bottled at the slightly higher strength of 45.2% ABV.