Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 07:51 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 Woodford Reserve Bourbon vs Woodford Reserve Wheat in this in-depth comparison and decide which whiskey 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
Woodford Reserve Bourbon vs Woodford Reserve Wheat: Comparison
Woodford Reserve Bourbon: A classic bourbon experience with rich mint, honey, and vanilla on the nose, balanced by sweet oak, cinnamon, and ripe fruit on the palate, culminating in a warm, caramel finish.
Woodford Wheat Whiskey: Offers a unique exploration of wheated whiskey with oak, bread, and cinnamon on the nose, a palate of cherry, brown sugar, and baking spice, and a dry finish of cinnamon, apple, and oak spice.
Verdict: Both Woodford Reserve Bourbon and Woodford Wheat Whiskey offer compelling profiles within the bourbon and whiskey categories. The Bourbon presents a classic, balanced sipping experience with a sweet and spicy profile, appealing to traditionalists. The Wheat Whiskey brings a novel twist with its higher wheat content, delivering a sweeter, bread-forward taste with a unique dry finish, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Top Woodford Reserve Whiskeys
Woodford Reserve: A Smooth & Balanced Bourbon for Everyday Sipping
- 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
- Similar to: Wild Turkey 101
Craving a classic bourbon experience? Woodford Reserve delivers with its smoothness, balanced profile, and delightful oaky touch. Let’s dive in:
Warm & Inviting:
- The aroma is full of toasted wood, alongside hints of refreshing mint, vanilla, and caramel.
- The palate dances with a satisfying blend of sweetness and spice, where the oaky character takes center stage.
- Delightful flavors of cinnamon, mint, and fruit emerge, creating a truly enjoyable experience.
Long & Lingering Finish:
- The finish is truly special, offering a pleasing sweetness and warmth that lingers, leaving a delightful aftertaste.
Highly Rated & Smooth:
- Woodford Reserve is known for its well-balanced profile and absence of harsh flavors.
- This highly regarded bourbon delivers a smooth and flavorful sipping experience, appealing to a wide range of palates.
- The subtle spice and toasted oak influence adds a touch of complexity without overwhelming the experience.
Enjoyable Neat or on the Rocks:
- Whether you prefer it neat or on the rocks, Woodford Reserve is a reliable choice for everyday sipping.
Bonus Facts:
- Made with 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% barley.
- Aged for 7 years using a unique heat cycling process for controlled aging.
- Won gold and double gold medals at prestigious competitions.
Ready for a classic bourbon experience? Give Woodford Reserve a try! You won’t be disappointed.
Woodford Wheat Whiskey: A Sweet & Spicy Exploration with a Subtle Twist
- Nose: Oak, bread, cinnamon, apple
- Palate: Cherry, bread, brown sugar, baking spice, oak
- Finish: Cinnamon, apple, oak spice
- Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
- Similar to: Woodford Reserve Malt
Intrigued by wheated bourbons? Woodford Wheat offers a unique take with its bread-forward character thanks to a 52% wheat mash bill. Let’s explore its nuances:
Warm & Inviting:
- The nose greets you with familiar Oakwood aromas reminiscent of classic Woodford Reserve, alongside hints of spiced apples and warm bread.
- The palate is smooth and creamy, with a sweetness reminiscent of cherries, brown sugar, and baking spices.
A Touch of Dryness:
- The finish is dry, drier than other Woodford expressions, and might lack a punch of warmth for some.
- A lingering cinnamon-apple-oak spice aftertaste keeps things interesting.
Uniqueness with Nuances:
- Compared to traditional wheated bourbons with lower wheat content, Woodford Wheat’s 52% wheat delivers a more prominent bready character.
- It’s not earth-shattering, but the distinctive wheat influence adds an intriguing layer to the flavor profile.
Before You Buy:
- Remember, the finish is noticeably drier than other Woodford Reserves. If you prefer a warmer finish, this might not be your perfect match.
Bonus Facts:
- Made with 52% wheat, 20% malt, 20% corn, and 8% rye.
- Aged around 4 years (no age statement).
- Part of the Brown-Forman family, alongside Jack Daniel’s and Old Forester.
Ready to explore the wheated path with a twist? Give Woodford Wheat a try! Just keep its drier finish in mind.
The difference in mash bills
This chart illustrates how the mash bills are comprised:
| Whiskey | Malted Barley | Wheat | Rye | Corn |
| Woodford Reserve Bourbon | 10% | – | 18% | 72% |
| Woodford Reserve Wheat | 20% | 52% | 8% | 20% |
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whiskey | Price |
| Woodford Reserve Bourbon | $40 |
| Woodford Reserve Wheat | $39 |