Woodford Reserve vs Yellowstone Select: Bourbon Comparison

Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 09:17 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 vs Yellowstone Select 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

Woodford Reserve vs Yellowstone Select: Comparison

Woodford Reserve: A blend of mint, honey, and ripe fruit, with a smooth finish of warmth and caramel. An all-rounder that’s both budget-friendly and delightfully smooth for sipping or mixing.

Yellowstone Select Straight Bourbon: Offers a spicy introduction with notes of vanilla and oak, leading to a palate of aged leather and caramel, and a comforting finish. A spicy yet approachable choice for newcomers or as a versatile mixer.

Verdict: Woodford Reserve and Yellowstone Select Straight Bourbon provide distinct tasting experiences; one with a balanced sweetness ideal for versatile enjoyment, the other with a rye spice kick suited for those exploring bourbon’s spicy side. Each has its own charm, catering to different preferences within the bourbon spectrum, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Sipping Bourbons under $40

Woodford Reserve: A Smooth Sip with Sweet Charm

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: Basil Hayden’s

Looking for a bourbon that’s easy on the wallet and smooth on the palate? Look no further than Woodford Reserve! Priced just right, this crowd-pleaser offers a delightful sipping experience.

Nosing Around: Take a whiff and be greeted by warm notes of honeyed wood, refreshing mint, and hints of sweet vanilla and caramel.

Flavor Fiesta: On the tongue, Woodford Reserve dances with flavors. Imagine a blend of sweetness from vanilla and fruit, a touch of spice like cinnamon, and a toasty warmth from oak barrels. Yum!

Lingering Delight: The finish is smooth and sweet, leaving a pleasant aftertaste that lingers like a happy memory.

Why It Works: This bourbon is well-balanced, meaning no harsh surprises here. Plus, its creamy texture makes for a truly enjoyable sip.

Sweet or Spicy? Whether you prefer your bourbon sweet or with a kick, Woodford Reserve has you covered. Its sweetness is balanced by hints of spice, making it appealing to a wide range of tastes.

Neat or on the Rocks? Enjoy it straight for the full flavor experience, or add ice for a refreshing twist. Either way, Woodford Reserve is a reliable choice for any occasion.

Bonus Facts:

Made with a classic corn, rye, and barley mash bill.
Aged for 7 years in special warehouses with temperature control for consistent quality.
Awarded gold medals for its deliciousness!
Part of the Brown-Forman family, alongside Jack Daniel’s and Old Forester.

So, raise a glass and experience the smooth charm of Woodford Reserve!

Yellowstone Bourbon: A Spicy Ride for New Explorers

Nose: Vanilla, rye spice, oak
Palate: Old leather, sweet corn, caramel, rye spice
Finish: Short to medium, oak, baking spice
Alcohol content: 93 proof (46.5% ABV)
How to drink: Neat
Similar to: Buffalo Trace

Yellowstone Bourbon isn’t your typical sweet sipper. This one packs a spicy punch of rye right from the start, with hints of vanilla and oak to smooth it out.

Spicy Nose: Get ready for a wake-up call with prominent rye notes and a peppery kick. Think cowboy boots and dusty trails!

Smooth Ride: Don’t worry, it’s not all fire and brimstone. The smooth texture and medium body make it easy to enjoy.

Bold Flavors: First comes a taste of aged leather, then a wave of warming rye spice balanced by sweet corn and caramel.

Lingering Warmth: The finish hangs around with oaky notes, baking spices, and a touch of sweetness, leaving a gentle warmth on your tongue.

Good, But Not Great: While enjoyable neat or on the rocks, Yellowstone might not leave you starstruck with complexity.

Cocktail Champ: This bourbon shines in an Old Fashioned, where its spicy personality takes center stage. It also makes a decent base for other mixed drinks.

Perfect for Beginners: If you’re new to bourbon, Yellowstone is a friendly first sip. It’s easy to drink and won’t overpower your taste buds.

Bonus Facts:

Aged 4-7 years (exact age a mystery!).
High rye content for that spicy kick.
Made in Kentucky by descendants of Jim Beam.
Founded in the 1880s, with a rich history.

So, saddle up and give Yellowstone Bourbon a try! It’s a good value choice for exploring the world of bourbon, especially if you like things on the spicy side.