Limited-Edition Bourbon Finished in French Oak Wine Barrels
Woodford Reserve has released a new limited-edition expression as part of its annual Distillery Series: Cabernet Sauvignon Barrel Finish. The bourbon is fully matured Woodford Reserve Bourbon finished in French oak cabernet sauvignon barrels, which impart dark fruit and herbal notes to the whiskey.
The Distillery Series serves as Woodford Reserve’s experimental lineup, with two to three releases annually that explore new production techniques and flavor profiles. The series is positioned as a platform for innovation led by Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall.
Experimental Distillery Series Continues Innovation Focus
The Distillery Series has become a recurring release program for Woodford Reserve, offering limited-edition expressions designed to push the boundaries of bourbon production. The Cabernet Sauvignon Barrel Finish continues the brand’s exploration of wine barrel finishing and cross-category flavor development.
“Finishing bourbon in wine barrels allows us to explore exciting new flavor dimensions,” said Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall. “The wine barrels impart rich, fruit-forward notes that complement the bourbon’s natural character, creating something truly special for adventurous whiskey lovers.”
Tasting Notes and Specifications
Woodford Reserve Distillery Series Cabernet Sauvignon Barrel Finish features a deep reddish-brown color, with aromas of soft vanilla, spiced plum, and blackberry dusted with allspice. The flavor profile includes warm baking spice, dark cherry, and plum with hints of cocoa, followed by a long finish with soft oak and dried dark fruit.
The limited-edition release is bottled at 90.4 proof and has a suggested retail price of $64.99 for a 375 mL bottle. It is available at the Woodford Reserve Distillery, select Kentucky retailers, and for shipping in select U.S. states where legal.
Listen to Bourbon Lens on your favorite podcast app or stream on Spotify. If you’d like to support Bourbon Lens, join our Patreon, sign up for our “Weekly Pour” Newsletter, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.






