Woodford Reserve debuts 2024 Batch Proof whiskey

Brown-Forman-owned Woodford Reserve has released this year’s limited edition Batch Proof whiskey, which clocks in at 60.6% ABV.

Woodford Reserve, which typically bottles its whiskeys at an ABV of 45.2%, has announced the latest release of its Batch Proof expression as part of its Master’s Collection.

Bottled at cask strength, the 2024 release comes from more than 100 barrels of various production dates and warehouse locations.

“Barrels drawn from the upper floors of our heat-cycled warehouses tend to possess higher-proof presentations including this limited edition batch,” master distiller Elizabeth McCall said. “Batch Proof allows consumers to taste Woodford Reserve exactly as it comes out of the barrels.”

The 2024 release is listed at US$150. It has notes of vanilla bean and brown sugar pecans on the nose, with sweet toasted oak, cocoa, and dried strawberries on the palate.

The expression is available in select US and global markets as well as at the distillery in limited quantities.

The last release of Batch Proof came in May 2023, with that whiskey bottled at 62% ABV.

McCall became the third master distiller in the brand’s history when she was appointed to the position in February 2023 following more than 10 years of training. McCall took over from Chris Morris, who was named master distiller emeritus.

In December, Brown-Forman reported “slower than anticipated” revenue for the first half of its 2024 fiscal year, with Woodford Reserve sales dropping by 3%.