Woodford Reserve Unveils Super Seasoned Oak Bourbon

Master's Collection Welcomes 22nd Experimental Release, Extending Oak Stave Natural Seasoning

Kentucky brand Woodford Reserve has announced the 2026 release in its Master's Collection series: Super Seasoned Oak, marking the 22nd edition in the brand's experimental lineup. Crafted under the direction of Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall, this bourbon focuses specifically on an extended outdoor seasoning process for oak barrel staves.

Breaking the Norm in Stave Seasoning Duration

In standard bourbon production, oak staves are typically seasoned outdoors for 6 to 9 months before barrel assembly. In contrast, Super Seasoned Oak utilizes an exceptionally prolonged seasoning timeframe, selecting staves weathered in the natural elements for 5 to 7 years. According to the distillery, this intensive outdoor weathering process significantly diminishes harsh green tannins, opens up the wood grain, and draws out concentrated sugars deep within the oak, imparting rich spice notes, toasted sweetness, and dark fruit complexity to the whiskey.

Official Tasting Notes

Official tasting notes describe the bourbon as possessing an amber hue. The nose opens with rich aromas of caramel and vanilla, accompanied by almond, cherry, and dried red apple dusted with cinnamon. On the palate, a velvety stream of vanilla and caramel unfolds, illuminated by bright touches of orange oil, cinnamon, and clove. The finish leaves a warm, lingering sweetness defined by cinnamon spice.

Exploring the Five Flavor Sources and Distillery Heritage

First launched in 2005, the Master's Collection serves as Woodford Reserve's platform for experimental releases. The series explores what the distillery defines as the "Five Sources of Flavor"—grain, water, fermentation, distillation, and maturation—previously featuring varied cask finishes, mash bills, and unique maturation techniques. Elizabeth McCall stepped into the Master Distiller role in 2021, succeeding Chris Morris, who held the post for nearly two decades.

Woodford Reserve is produced at the Woodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, Kentucky. Designated a National Historic Landmark, it is one of Kentucky's oldest continuously operating distilleries. The brand is owned by the Louisville-based spirits group Brown-Forman.

📅 Release Date: 2026-09-03

🔗 Source: The Whiskey Wash