‘First of Its Kind’: Woodford Reserve Dives Into American Single Malt Category With 12-Year-Old Whiskey

(Photo: Woodford Reserve)

On Thursday, Woodford Reserve released its first American Single Malt Whiskey, a 12-year-old expression distilled from 100% malted barley. The limited-edition bottling is part of the brand’s Distillery Series and is available as of Thursday.

The whiskey was triple pot distilled and aged in used whiskey barrels for 12 years, a decision Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall said was made to showcase the impact of extended maturation.

“I’m excited to release this 12-year-old American Single Malt, a whiskey that proves just how essential long aging in used barrels is for unlocking its full flavor potential,” McCall said in a news release. “Its lighter color and nuanced flavor profile demonstrate the importance of time. I believe it’s one of the most authentic American Single Malts ever released — the first of its kind.”

Bottled at 90.4 proof, the whiskey carries a suggested retail price of $99.99 per 375-milliliter bottle. It will be sold in limited quantities at select Kentucky retailers; at the Woodford Reserve Distillery; and online for shipping to Kentucky, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Nebraska and Washington, D.C.

According to the distillery, tasting notes include sweet nutty malt, soft caramel, warm spice, and subtle citrus. The aroma features caramel, sun tea, and pear with hints of lemon, ginger, and cardamom, while the finish is described as long-lasting with lingering sun tea and lemon oil.

The release continues Woodford Reserve’s Distillery Series, which explores new styles and production methods beyond its core bourbon offerings. Previous Distillery Series releases this year have been a tawny port finish and the Chocolate Whisper Redux, which is one of the best bourbons of 2025.