Legent vs Woodford Reserve: Bourbon Comparison

Last Updated on: 10th April 2024, 09:52 pm

J Highland

J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.

Discover the differences between Legent vs Woodford Reserve in this in-depth comparison and decide which Bourbon is better for You!

Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.

Written by: J Highland

Legent vs Woodford Reserve: Comparison

Legent and Woodford Reserve present unique bourbon experiences:

Legent merges Japanese whisky artistry with classic Kentucky bourbon craftsmanship. It’s a harmonious blend of East and West, offering a nuanced palate of cherry, vanilla, and oak, finished with a touch of pepper. Its innovative maturation process, involving red wine and sherry casks, adds complexity and depth.
Woodford Reserve stands as a testament to traditional bourbon making, showcasing a smooth blend of sweet oak, cinnamon, and mint, with a lingering caramel finish. Its balanced flavor profile and creamy texture make it a versatile choice for both sipping and cocktails.

Verdict: Both bourbons offer a premium experience, with Legent appealing to those seeking innovation and global influences in their whiskey, while Woodford Reserve caters to purists appreciating craftsmanship and traditional bourbon flavors, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Legent: Where East Meets West in a Bourbon Glass

Alcohol content: 94 proof (47% ABV)
How to drink: Add water
Similar to: Basil Hayden’s Dark Rye

East Meets West: Crafted by Jim Beam’s Fred Noe and Hibiki’s Shinji Fukuyo, Legent bridges Bourbon and Japanese whisky traditions.

Blended Beauty: This expression blends various bourbons, some matured in red wine and sherry casks, showcasing the expertise of both master distillers.

Nose: Light and inviting, with red grapes, dark fruits, and a whisper of oak. A touch of warmth fades with time.

Taste: Smooth with a decent body. Cherry and red fruits take center stage, balanced by vanilla and toasty oak.

Finish: Decent length, lingering with vanilla, cherry, and a hint of oak spice. Adding a drop of water unlocks more cherry and oak.

A New Beam: Forget the harshness sometimes associated with Jim Beam. Legent is smooth and pleasant, leaning towards a sherried Scotch profile.

Legent Facts:

Jim Beam’s first new expression in 27 years.
Gold Medal winner at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Part of Suntory’s vast portfolio, including Laphroaig, Maker’s Mark, and Bowmore.

Woodford Reserve: Smooth Sipping Delight

Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
Similar to: Jim Beam

Aroma: Delicate notes of wood, mint, vanilla, and caramel – a subtle and inviting introduction.

Taste: Balance is key! Sweetness and spice dance harmoniously on your palate. The oak is noticeable but not overpowering, accented by cinnamon, mint, and hints of fruit.

Finish: A final touch of caramel sweetness lingers, leaving a warm and satisfying impression.

Smooth Operator: This bourbon is remarkably smooth and creamy, with no harsh edges. Perfect for sipping and savoring.

Spice Up Your Life: The hint of cinnamon adds a pleasant warmth and complexity, making it more than just a sweet sip.

Something for Everyone: Whether you’re a bourbon veteran or just starting out, Woodford Reserve’s balanced profile and approachable smoothness make it a great choice.

Woodford Facts:

72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% barley mash bill.
Aged 7 years with unique heat cycling for controlled aging.
Award-winning, with gold and double gold medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Owned by Brown Forman, alongside Jack Daniel’s and Old Forester.