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Woodford Reserve Unveils Chocolate Whisper Redux Bourbon

Woodford Reserve has introduced a new bourbon that is sure to delight aficionados and dessert lovers alike. Named Chocolate Whisper Redux, this 12-year-old Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey showcases prominent cocoa and coffee flavors.

For enthusiasts of fine spirits, this release is particularly noteworthy. Bottled just shy of 140 proof, it stands as the highest alcohol by volume (ABV) product ever offered by the brand.

Elizabeth McCall, Woodford Reserve’s master distiller, has expressed her long-standing interest in these specific barrels since she began her tenure as master taster in 2015. “I have had my eye on these barrels for a special release since I started,” she noted.

The name “Chocolate Whisper” derives not from the ingredients of this bourbon, but from a previous distillation. The whiskey that preceded the current batch featured chocolate malted rye, leaving a delicate yet notable chocolate character that subtly influenced the subsequent bourbon. “The whiskey distillate that went into these barrels had the chocolate influence from the production of chocolate malted rye bourbon we had produced prior to this bourbon run,” McCall explained. This particular maturation process allowed the distillers to monitor how the chocolate essence matured over time.

Chocolate Whisper Redux follows the original Chocolate Malt Whisper, which was part of a Distillery Series release introduced in 2021 and bottled at the standard Woodford proof of 90.4. Now, the whiskey has matured for four more years, allowing for a complex blend that forms this new iteration.

At 139.4 proof, Chocolate Whisper Redux represents not just a peak for the distillery, but also a carefully calibrated experience. Although the original cask strength was higher, McCall and her team decided this proof provided the best drinking experience. The longer aging process has significantly enriched the flavor profile, offering a bold, layered complexity while maintaining a smooth finish. “It’s exciting to see how Chocolate Malt Whisper evolved since its initial release in 2021,” McCall stated, emphasizing the improvements in flavor and finish.

According to tasting notes from Woodford Reserve, the bourbon presents an aromatic bouquet of heavy chocolate alongside toasted oak, clove, and nutmeg. The flavor profile includes hints of dried cherry and cranberry, further complemented by dark roasted coffee and charred oak. This 12-year-old bourbon delivers a robust oak finish, enhanced by notes of candied pecans.

Key Details: Woodford Reserve Chocolate Whisper Redux

ABV: 69.7%
Maturation: 12 years
Experimentation: Distilled right after a run of chocolate malted rye bourbon; the final proof of 139.4 is lower than cask strength.
Availability: This limited Distillery Series release will be available starting February 20th at the Woodford Reserve Distillery. It can also be shipped to select locations including Kentucky, New Hampshire, Nebraska, North Dakota, and the District of Columbia, as well as available through select retailers in Kentucky. Given its high proof and unique profile, expect it to have a premium selling price on the secondary market.
MSRP: $100 (375-milliliter bottle)

McCall appreciates how the bourbon’s robust woody characteristics intertwine beautifully with a lingering sweetness and a pronounced chocolate finish. “I love the way the chocolate flavor lingers on my palate,” she reflects. “It reminds me of chocolate fudge frosting.”

Chocolate Whisper Redux, like most of Woodford Reserve’s Distillery Series releases, comes in 375-milliliter bottles. It can be purchased primarily at the Woodford Reserve Distillery and through woodfordreserve.com, alongside select retailers in Kentucky at a recommended retail price of $100.

Source
www.foodandwine.com