Understanding the Grains: Bourbon vs. Wheat Whiskey
To understand why Woodford Reserve is not a wheat bourbon, it is crucial to first define the legal requirements for different types of American whiskey. All bourbon must be made from a mash bill containing at least 51% corn. The remaining grains in the mash bill—typically malted barley, rye, or wheat—determine its specific sub-classification and flavor profile.
- Wheated Bourbon: This is a type of bourbon where wheat replaces rye as the secondary flavoring grain. The softer profile of wheat tames the spiciness often associated with rye, resulting in a smoother, sweeter whiskey with notes of caramel and vanilla.
- Wheat Whiskey: For a whiskey to be legally classified as a "wheat whiskey," its mash bill must contain at least 51% wheat. This is a separate classification from bourbon and results in a uniquely fruity and floral spirit.
- Rye Bourbon: Many traditional bourbons, like the standard Woodford Reserve, use rye as the secondary grain. This imparts a spicy, peppery quality to the whiskey, balancing the sweetness of the corn.
The Flagship: Woodford Reserve Distiller's Select
The core product that most people know is not a wheated bourbon. Its recipe, or mash bill, is carefully crafted to create a balanced flavor profile that includes spiciness from rye, not softness from wheat.
- Mash Bill: The flagship Woodford Reserve Distiller's Select is made from 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% malted barley.
- Flavor Profile: With its high rye content, this bourbon offers a complex palate with notes of mint, citrus, and spices, balanced by sweet vanilla and caramel. This profile is a classic example of a high-rye bourbon, providing a bolder, spicier experience than a wheated counterpart.
- Production Process: The brand’s flavor profile is also influenced by its production method, including a combination of triple distillation in copper pot stills and aging in heat-cycled warehouses.
The Different Expression: Woodford Reserve Wheat
For those seeking a genuine wheat-forward whiskey, Woodford Reserve did introduce a dedicated product called Woodford Reserve Wheat in 2019. This is not a bourbon but a distinct wheat whiskey with its own unique characteristics.
- Mash Bill: Its grain recipe consists of 52% wheat, 20% malt, 20% corn, and 8% rye, making wheat the dominant grain.
- Flavor Profile: The flavor is fruit-forward and floral, with notes of spicy applesauce, toasted coconut, and cocoa. The mouthfeel is soft and less viscous than its bourbon counterpart.
- Classification: Because wheat makes up the majority of the mash bill, this product is legally classified as a "Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey," not a bourbon.
Comparison: Woodford Reserve Bourbon vs. Woodford Reserve Wheat
Understanding the differences in their mash bills and resulting flavor profiles is key to distinguishing these two spirits.
| Feature | Woodford Reserve Bourbon | Woodford Reserve Wheat |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Grain | Corn (72%) | Wheat (52%) |
| Secondary Grain | Rye (18%) | Malted Barley (20%) |
| Classification | Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey | Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey |
| Flavor Profile | Spicy, mint, citrus, cocoa, vanilla, and caramel | Fruit-forward, floral, spicy applesauce, and toasted coconut |
| Mouthfeel | Complex, rounded, and smooth | Soft, less viscous, and dry |
Why the Confusion? Brand Recognition and Expansion
The confusion over whether Woodford is a wheat bourbon is understandable. Many consumers associate the brand solely with its flagship bourbon. However, Woodford Reserve, owned by Brown-Forman, has expanded its product line to include a variety of grain-focused spirits. This strategy allows the distillery to explore different whiskey traditions and profiles, providing a broader range of options for enthusiasts.
As explained by Master Distiller Chris Morris, after Prohibition, the government permitted four styles of American straight whiskey: bourbon, rye, wheat, and malt. Woodford Reserve now offers all four styles as permanent brands in their portfolio. The standard Woodford is the representative bourbon, while Woodford Reserve Wheat fills the wheat whiskey category.
Choosing the Right Bottle for Your Palate
Whether you prefer Woodford Reserve Bourbon or Woodford Reserve Wheat depends on your flavor preference. If you enjoy a bold, spicier spirit with a complex mix of citrus and spice, the high-rye Woodford Reserve Bourbon is the right choice. If you lean towards a softer, fruit-forward whiskey with a smoother, almost creamy finish, then the Woodford Reserve Wheat is a better fit. Many whiskey enthusiasts enjoy having both on hand to experience the significant difference a primary grain can make.
For those interested in exploring different spirits from the same producer, the Woodford Reserve grain-focused collection is an excellent place to start. It allows you to taste how the distillery's unique production methods, including their copper pot stills and heat-cycled warehouses, interact with different mash bills to create distinct flavor profiles.
Conclusion
In summary, the popular flagship Woodford Reserve is a high-rye bourbon, not a wheat bourbon, and is defined by its 72% corn mash bill. The misconception arises from the fact that the brand also produces a separate, distinctly different product called Woodford Reserve Wheat, which uses wheat as the primary grain and is classified as a wheat whiskey. The key distinction lies in the grain proportions, and understanding this helps clarify the true nature of each expression. Knowing the mash bill allows whiskey drinkers to make an informed choice based on their desired flavor profile, whether it’s the classic spice of the bourbon or the fruity softness of the wheat whiskey. To further your whiskey knowledge, consider exploring articles on different bourbon styles and their histories. You can learn more about bourbon regulations on the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau website.
