Woodford Reserve Sonoma-Cutrer Pinot Noir Finish

Woodford Reserve Sonoma-Cutrer Pinot Noir Finish, NAS, 45,2 %

Woodford Reserve Sonoma-Cutrer Pinot Noir Finish

A fun (?) twist on a bourbon today. Pinot Noir wine cask finish on a bourbon? Hmm. This is a fairly recent release in the Woodford Reserve Master's Collection.

Here is what they say about the release themselves:

"The Woodford Reserve Master’s Collection Sonoma-Cutrer Pinot Noir Finish is the latest in product innovation from Woodford Reserve, and marks the ninth release in the series. The Sonoma-Cutrer Pinot Noir Finish was produced by taking a batch of mature Woodford Reserve and finishing the spirit in Pinot Noir barrels freshly emptied and shipped from California’s famed Sonoma-Cutrer Winery".

A few bottles were on sale in the UK at around GBP 100, but it seems to be sold out now.

Nose: Hmm..it's a bourbon, but not. It's earthy, damp and dark. Imagine spilling a fine bourbon on rich, warm potting soil, then smelling it. More vanilla coming through with time. It's like the bourbon has been buried alive, and is now clawing its way out of the dirt! Aaaaah! It's alive! Run for the hills! ...ahem...anyways. It smells nice  Strawberries now, and pink marshmallows, and peace and war and everything nice...la-di-da...who are those men in white coats? Why are they coming this way?

Taste: Medium body and drying mouthfeel. A lot drier than the regular Woodford Reserve. Earthy, rich and borderline astringent. Vanilla, coconut, caramel, red berries and grape juice.

Finish: Medium long finish. Burnt caramel, maple syrup, fresh herbs. Quite dry all the way to the finish line.

Comments: The nose is surprising and lovely. The palate requires a bit more attention and effort.

Score (80/100)

Sláinte! - Thomas