Whiskey Wednesday: Woodford Reserve’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon

“Oh, that’s smooth… sounds like a classic movie line, but when you take a sip of a really smooth whiskey, you can’t help but say ‘that’s smooth,’” says Nicole, the owner of The Tasting Room and curator of our wine and whiskey list. “As I expand my palette for whiskeys, it’s just like wines – finding the ones you enjoy. Taking small sips and sipping slowly lets you appreciate the flavors as they linger on the backend.”

The smooth whiskey that we want to introduce you to is Woodford Reserve: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. This whiskey just so happens to be one of the stars of tonight’s Whiskey Pairing Dinner at our Downtown Syracuse Wine & Whiskey Bar. 

Woodford Reserve is a distinguished bourbon producer with a legacy of crafting exceptionally smooth whiskeys. Their Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a prime example, known for its full-bodied and velvety character. It offers a symphony of flavors, including dried fruit, vanilla, and toasted oak, making it a top choice for bourbon enthusiasts seeking a smooth and rich drinking experience.

Woodford Reserve’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is definitely a smooth one. But you may be wondering, what makes a whiskey smooth? Here are some factors that create a smooth whiskey: 

1. Distillation

Smooth whiskey often begins with a meticulous distillation process. A distillery's commitment to maintaining consistent and controlled distillation can significantly impact the end product's smoothness.

2. Aging

The maturation process in wooden barrels is crucial for whiskey. The interaction between the spirit and the wood influences the flavor, aroma, and texture, ultimately contributing to smoothness.

3. Water Source

The source of water used during production can also influence the whiskey's character. Some whiskeys use pristine water from natural springs, which can add a unique softness to the final product.

4. Blending

Blended whiskeys often aim for a harmonious combination of different whiskey types and ages, resulting in a balanced and smoother flavor profile.

Together, this creates an easy-drinkin’ whiskey that’s smoother than silk on a shoe shine. 

Now let’s get into how you should enjoy the whiskey . . .

Believe it or not, glass shape makes a huge difference. To get the most out of your whiskey, we recommend a Glencairn glass (tulip shaped). 

Temperature is another important factor. Serve your Woodford Reserve whiskey (and any other whiskey) at room temperature for optimum taste

Another tip for enjoying your whiskey is to sip it. Go slow, enjoy, and savor. And if you really want to enjoy it, pair it with a dish that compliments the whiskey. Don’t worry, at The Tasting Room we take the guesswork out of pairing – we’ll tell you exactly which dish on our menu pairs perfectly. Tonight, we’ll be pairing our Woodford Reserve with Wild Boar Sausage, served with spiced lentils and red pickled onion.

We hope you’ll join us tonight for our Whiskey Dinner, but if you can’t make it, Woodford Reserve’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon will be available for your tasting pleasure right here at our Downtown Syracuse Bar. Hope we get to pour you one soon – cheers!