Angel's Envy vs Woodford Reserve: Bourbon Comparison

Last Updated on: 10th April 2024, 09:23 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 Angel’s Envy 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

Angel’s Envy vs Woodford Reserve: Comparison

Angel’s Envy: A unique bourbon finished in port wine casks, offering notes of coconut, chocolate, and vanilla, with a palate of bread, maple syrup, and caramel. Its finish is smooth with toasted oak and baking spice, making it a distinctive choice at 86 proof.

Woodford Reserve: A well-balanced bourbon with aromas of mint, honey, and vanilla, complemented by a palate of sweet oak, cinnamon, and mint. The finish is warm and lingering with caramel, presenting a harmonious blend of flavors at 90 proof.

Key Difference: Angel’s Envy distinguishes itself by aging in port wine casks, imparting unique sweet notes to the bourbon, a contrast to traditional profiles, influenced by Port’s rich, sweet character.

Verdict: Angel’s Envy and Woodford Reserve both offer refined bourbon experiences, with Angel’s Envy providing a unique maple-infused journey and Woodford Reserve delivering a classic, balanced taste, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Top Whiskeys under $40

Angel’s Envy: Intriguing Bourbon with a Maple Twist

Nose: Coconut, chocolate, vanilla
Palate: Bread, maple syrup, caramel, vanilla
Finish: Toasted oak, baking spice
Alcohol content: 86 proof (43% ABV)
How to drink: Add water

Sniff this bourbon, and you’ll be greeted by the unexpected: coconut, chocolate, and a rich dose of vanilla.

Take a sip, and things get interesting. It’s lighter than some bourbons, but don’t underestimate the flavor. First, a gentle spice like red wine hits your tongue, followed by a wave of maple syrup, caramel, and warm baking spices.

The finish is smooth and long, leaving a pleasant sweetness that lingers. Hints of oak and spice add depth, making it more than just a sweet treat.

Here’s the deal: Angel’s Envy is unique. It’s super smooth, almost no burn, and tastes like a delicious maple breakfast with a kick.

It might not be your full-bodied bourbon heavyweight, and some bourbon fans might find the 86 proof a little low. But overall, it’s an enjoyable and interesting sipper.

Want to know more? Here’s the scoop:

Aged 4-6 years: Younger than some bourbons, but still packs a punch.
Made with the classics: Corn, rye, and malted barley, with a twist (thanks to the finishing!)
Award-winning: Wine Enthusiast loves it, and F. Paul Pacult is a fan too.
Made by a bourbon legend: The guy behind Woodford Reserve and Gentleman Jack created this gem.

So, if you’re looking for a bourbon that’s different, smooth, and bursting with maple goodness, give Angel’s Envy a try. You might just find your new favorite dram.

P.S. This bourbon can also be mixed in cocktails, but its unique flavors really shine when sipped neat or on the rocks.

Woodford Reserve: Smooth Sipping with a Balanced Taste

Nose: Rich in mint, honey, vanilla, citrus
Palate: Sweet oak, cinnamon, mint, ripe fruit
Finish: Lingering warmth and caramel
Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
How to drink: Rocks, cocktails

Light and pleasant aromas of vanilla, mint, and caramel greet your nose when you pour a glass of Woodford Reserve.

Take a sip, and you’ll find a delightful dance between sweetness and spice. It’s smooth, thanks to the expert touch of oak aging, with hints of cinnamon, mint, and a touch of fruit.

The finish is smooth and warming, leaving a lingering caramel sweetness that’s oh-so-satisfying.

Here’s the deal: Woodford Reserve is all about balance. It’s creamy, without any harsh edges, making it a great choice for sipping. The touch of cinnamon adds a pleasant warmth, and the sweetness is subtle, not overpowering.

Whether you’re a bourbon pro or just starting out, Woodford Reserve is a crowd-pleaser. It’s approachable, smooth, and has just the right amount of complexity to keep things interesting.

Want to geek out a bit? Here’s the lowdown:

Made with corn, rye, and barley: The mash bill (recipe) uses 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% barley, giving it a smooth, sweet character with a touch of spice.
Aged with care: Woodford spends 7 years in special warehouses that use “heat cycling” to carefully control the aging process.
Award-winning: It’s no surprise this bourbon is a hit – it’s won gold and double gold medals at prestigious competitions.
Part of the family: Woodford Reserve is owned by Brown-Forman, the folks behind Jack Daniel’s and Old Forester, but each brand has its own unique personality.

So, if you’re looking for a smooth, balanced bourbon with a touch of sweetness and spice, give Woodford Reserve a try. You won’t be disappointed!

P.S. This bourbon is also great in cocktails, but it shines when sipped neat or on the rocks.