Woodinville Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Welcome, fellow bourbon enthusiasts, to the spirited universe of Woodinville Straight Bourbon Whiskey! Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Northwest, Woodinville Distillery has emerged through the years as a force to be reckoned with in the bourbon world, and their Straight Bourbon Whiskey is no exception.
Before we start, and since we are talking about a bourbon not distilled in Kentucky, let’s brush up on what makes a bourbon. There is still a misconception that to be called bourbon, it has to be made in Kentucky, but it is untrue. So, what are the criteria? The mash needs to be at least 51% corn, distilled at 160 proof, and made in the United States; the distillate must be aged in NEW charred oak containers, barreled at 125 proof or less, must not contain any additives, and bottled no less at 80 proof and no more than 150 proof. You got it! Ok!
As we dive into the golden nectar that is Woodinville Bourbon, let's take a quick trip down memory lane and get an update on this distillery. Picture this: two passionate whiskey friends deciding to shake things up in the charming town of Woodinville, Washington. Their teacher, master distiller David Pickerell (Makers Mark), has been helping them along the way. Of course, no bourbon is without its crops. Omlin Farm in Quincy, Washington, supplies their finest grains. Fast forward, and here we are savoring the fruits of their labor – Woodinville Straight Bourbon Whiskey. In 2017, it was announced that Moët Hennessy USA acquired Woodinville. Even though they are not decades old or not independently owned anymore, it doesn’t mean this brown water is not good! They are precisely the bottle you want to find or buy your spouse on your 5th wedding anniversary. Traditional wedding gifts at five years is wood…Woodinville, get it? (thanks, babe).
With all that said, this bourbon isn't just a drink; it's a manifestation of the Pacific Northwest spirit – bold, innovative, and maybe a tad unconventional. Crafted with a blend of corn, rye, and malted barley, it's like a symphony of flavors that harmonize on your palate. You can almost taste the commitment and a hint of rebelliousness that went into each bottle.
Now, let's talk tasting notes – because who said discussing bourbon can't be a little tongue-in-cheek? The nose of Woodinville Straight Bourbon Whiskey is as charming as the distillery's origin story. You might catch a whiff of caramel dancing with vanilla, like two old friends gossiping in a barrel. The scent makes you lean back, close your eyes, and think, "Well, aren't you fancy?"
Take a sip, and you're greeted by a warm embrace of rich, oaky goodness that’s not too hot, maybe just right. The flavors are like a well-rehearsed comedy routine – each note hits its mark with impeccable timing. Sweet hints of toffee play leapfrog with the subtle rye spice, leaving your taste buds wanting more.
As the curtain falls on each sip, the finish is a slow burn that lingers like the punchline of a great joke. Notes of leather and some tobacco slid over. For a moment, it even reminded me of my grandfather with his pipe. This kind of conclusion made you want to take a bow and pour yourself another round. Woodinville Straight Bourbon Whiskey isn't just a drink; it's a standing ovation in a glass.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a bourbon that not only tickles your taste buds but also tells a good story, Woodinville Straight Bourbon Whiskey is your ticket to the Pacific Northwest's liquid show. Pour yourself a dram, sit back, and enjoy – because, my friends, this is one bourbon with a punchline worth savoring. Cheers!
The Details:
Proof: 90 • Mashbill: 72% Corn • 22% Rye • 6% Malted Barley • Aged: 5yrs • Price: $40
Brown Water Rating Scale:
Nose: 3 • Palate: 3 • Finish: 3 • Uniqueness: 3 • Value: 4 • Overall: 3.2
This is a 5-point scale based on my own preferences. This was also tested by my father-in-law, another whiskey lover. 