Under the leadership of Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall, the 2026 Woodford Reserve Master's Collection release focuses intensely on the seasoning of barrel staves. Super Seasoned Oak showcases how extended outdoor wood exposure and precise barrel craftsmanship can elevate the spirit, delivering an intensely rich, deeply structured bourbon that collectors and connoisseurs will instantly appreciate.
Traditional bourbon barrels rely on white oak seasoned in the open air for months, or up to one year. This expression uses specialized barrels crafted from staves exposed to the elements for five to seven years. Much like a well-used cast-iron skillet gains depth of flavor from seasoning, staves weathered for years lose harsh green tannins, open up the wood grain and release deeply concentrated sugars, imparting spice, toasted sweetness and dark fruit complexity to the mature bourbon. Bottled at 100.4 proof (50.2% ABV), it is Series No. 22 of the Master's Collection.
Tasting Notes
Color: Amber. Aroma: Rich caramel and vanilla with almond, cherry and cinnamon-dusted dried red apples. Taste: A velvet current of vanilla and caramel brightened with a zesty mix of orange oils and baking spices. Finish: Sweet with warm cinnamon.
Why Collectors Seek This Out
Limited edition Series No. 22 of Woodford Reserve's Master's Collection
Barrels crafted from staves weathered outdoors for five to seven years, versus months to a year for traditional barrels
Created under Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall
Bottled at 100.4 proof (50.2% ABV)
Distilled at the Woodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, Kentucky
Product Details
Type
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Series
Master's Collection, Limited Edition Series No. 22 (2026)
Barrel Innovation
Staves Seasoned Outdoors for 5 to 7 Years
Size
700mL
Proof / ABV
100.4 Proof (50.2% Alc. Vol.)
Distillery
Woodford Reserve Distillery, Versailles, Kentucky
Please drink responsibly. Must be 21+ to purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is "Super Seasoned Oak"?
Super Seasoned Oak refers to barrels made from oak staves that were exposed to the elements for five to seven years, far longer than the months to one year typical for bourbon barrels. The extended weathering reduces harsh green tannins, opens the wood grain and brings out concentrated sugars.
What is the Woodford Reserve Master's Collection?
The Master's Collection is Woodford Reserve's limited edition series of experimental releases led by the distillery's Master Distiller. Super Seasoned Oak is Series No. 22, created under Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall.
What proof is it?
Super Seasoned Oak is bottled at 100.4 proof (50.2% ABV).
What does it taste like?
Expect rich caramel and vanilla with almond, cherry and cinnamon-dusted dried red apples on the nose, a velvet palate of vanilla and caramel brightened with orange oils and baking spices, and a sweet finish with warm cinnamon.
Is this a limited release?
Yes. The Master's Collection is released in limited quantities, and Super Seasoned Oak is the 2026 limited edition.
