Woodford Reserve Red Corn Master Distiller's Select Limited Edition Kentucky Exclusive Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (2026) 37.5cl
Woodford Reserve’s Distillery Series was created to push the creative boundaries of whiskey. The series has included expressions such as Tawny Port Finish, Chocolate Whisper Redux, Blended Malt Sherry Cask, and Toasted Bourbon. For its latest release, Woodford Reserve turned to locally grown heirloom red corn for a unique twist on traditional bourbon.
The red corn used in the Red Corn bourbon was grown at a local farm in Versailles, Kentucky. Due to a storm during the growing season, there was limited supply of this crop available for distillation. This scarcity only adds to the allure and exclusivity of this limited release.
According to master distiller Elizabeth McCall, “Despite the challenges of the season, the red corn we were able to harvest produced a whiskey that is as resilient as it is flavorful.” She continued, “It’s a true testament to the terroir of Woodford County.”
The Red Corn bourbon has been compared to regular Woodford Reserve bourbon in side-by-side tastings. While some subtle differences can be detected, this release stands out for its robust and savory notes, which are absent from traditional bourbon.
Woodford Reserves’ use of red corn is not without precedent. Still Austin’s Red Corn Bottled in Bond bourbon and Jeptha Creed’s Bloody Butchers Creed Bourbon have both utilized red corn in their production processes. However, the Distillery Series: Red Corn release represents a unique approach to whiskey-making that showcases the versatility of this crop.
The aging process for Woodford Reserve’s Red Corn bourbon is not specified in available information. The production methods used by Woodford Reserve are proprietary and not publicly disclosed, so we cannot provide further details on how they achieve their distinctive flavor profiles.
When tasting the Red Corn bourbon, drinkers can expect to experience a complex array of flavors that include ripe berries, dark chocolate, nutmeg, licorice notes. This unique blend is characteristic of the Distillery Series releases from Woodford Reserve and offers an exciting departure from traditional whiskey styles.
As more distilleries experiment with unique mashbills, aging processes, and cask finishes, consumers can expect an increasingly diverse range of whiskey styles. The Red Corn bourbon represents the next step in this evolution by introducing heirloom red corn as a potential game-changer for traditional bourbon.
This trend is supported by industry trends that suggest distilleries are exploring new production methods to differentiate themselves from competitors and meet growing demand for unique spirits experiences.
TASTING NOTES
Nose: Sweet corn custard, vanilla bean, toasted oak, honey drizzle, subtle baking spices
Palate: Creamy red corn sweetness, caramel, cinnamon stick, dried orange peel, peppery rye spice
Finish: Medium length with lingering corn sweetness, oak tannins, warm spice
About Woodford Reserve
Woodford Reserve is situated among beautiful horse farms - in fact, it’s one of the only places in Kentucky where you can see the state’s two most famous products – Bourbon whiskey and thoroughbred horses – maturing side-by-side. The art of making fine bourbon first took place on the site of the Woodford Reserve Distillery, a National Historic Landmark, in 1812. You get that sense of history. The history of bourbon is the history of Kentucky, is the history of the United States.
We believe the World's Finest Bourbon is crafted through a unique blend of time, patience, science, and art. For years, this philosophy has been championed by our Master Distillers, Chris Morris and Elizabeth McCall, who have been instrumental in driving innovation and shaping the very essence of Woodford Reserve.
In 2023, Elizabeth McCall stepped into the role of Master Distiller, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge and a fresh perspective. Now, as Master Distiller, she continues to push the boundaries of flavor and craftsmanship.
With this transition, Chris Morris has moved into a revered role as Master Distiller Emeritus, where his invaluable insights will continue to inform and inspire. Together, Chris and Elizabeth ensure every drop of Woodford Reserve is a true spectacle for the senses.
Elizabeth McCall is the Master Distiller for Woodford Reserve, overseeing quality and innovation and leading special releases, including the Master’s Collection and Distillery Series. She is a Certified Specialist of Spirits (CSS).
McCall has a master’s degree from the University of Louisville and began her career as a member of Brown-Forman’s Research and Department in 2009.
McCall was a Master Taster and Assistant Master Distiller before being named master distiller in February 2023.
She interacts one-on-one with consumers through personal barrel selections and education on sensory methodology and works to define the quality sensory standard to which every batch of Woodford Reserve must comply.
45.2% ABV
37.5cl
