Welcome to another instalment of my side-by-side comparison series, where today, I’ll be delving into the world of fine whiskey as I pit Gentleman Jack vs Woodford Reserve bourbon.
Exploring the nuances between these two exceptional spirits has been an absolute delight, as it’s amazing how much more you can appreciate a drink when you have something to measure it against.
In the past year, I’ve ventured into the realm of American whiskey, comparing Woodford Reserve to Jack Daniels Single Barrel and pitting Gentleman Jack against Jack Daniels Old No 7.
But today, it’s all about the showdown between Gentleman Jack and Woodford Reserve – a Tennessee whiskey versus a classic bourbon, both hailing from the esteemed Brown-Forman stable.
The question on my mind: which one will emerge as my favourite after this side-by-side tasting?
Let’s begin with Gentleman Jack. Introduced in 1988, this Tennessee whiskey was crafted to cater to those seeking a more refined, premium brand experience. Its unique 3- 5 day double filtration process through sugar maple charcoal (Lincoln County process) sets it apart.
The mash bill for Gentleman Jack comprises 80% corn, 8% rye, and 12% malted barley. First, it undergoes charcoal mellowing before ageing in the barrel. Then, it receives a second sugar maple charcoal mellowing after maturation, just before bottling.
This process has made Gentleman Jack a globally recognized Tennessee whiskey.
Now, onto Woodford Reserve, a brand synonymous with small-batch Kentucky bourbon whiskey. Its lineage traces back to 1797 when distiller Elijah Pepper began crafting small quantities of whiskey, eventually establishing a distillery.
Over the years, the distillery passed through various hands and saw periods of neglect. However, the legacy of Woodford Reserve lives on. Its mashbill features a notably higher percentage of rye, with a composition of 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% malt.
While it doesn’t carry an age statement, Woodford Reserve typically matures for around 6 years.
| Gentleman Jack whiskey | Woodford Reserve Bourbon | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Tennessee whiskey | Bourbon whiskey |
| Mashbill | 80% corn, 8% rye, 12% malted barley | 72% corn, 18% rye, 10% malt |
| ABV | 43% | 43.2% |
| Colour | Golden dark copper | Clear honey amber |
| Nose | Spicy oak, caramel and vanilla sweetness and faint hints of wood smoke. It has a sophisticated edge to it. | Honey sweetness with apricots and oranges. There are bits of condensed milk richness mixed with vanilla and hints of spices |
| Palate | Smoky oak and hints of charcoal. Herbal notes are coming through mixed with chocolate, rich dark roast coffee, hints of pepper and cinnamon intertwined with cherry sweetness and vanilla. The palate is bold and quite a big mouthful. | Oak and sweetness perfectly balanced with a bit of apricot and cinnamon spiciness. Notes of tangy winter fruits and vanilla mixed with toffee. Rich, buttery and smooth with a full body and a satisfying mouth feel |
| Finish | Medium length with dark Indian spices and faint bits of charcoal and vanilla. | Long and lingering and ends in notes of sweet spices |
| My Rating | Excellent | Excellent |
| Comments | It has a distinctive personality, smooth, complex but it easy drinking and smoother and richer than the regular Jack Daniel's | Rich and buttery with a great balance between sweet and spicy. |
| Price | $40 | $40 |
| Pairs well with | Buttered NY strip steak | Aged Parmesan cheese, dark chocolate, roasted hazelnuts, Hawaiian Pizza |
The Woodford Reserve has notes of oak, apricot and condensed milk. Winter fruits, toffee and faint oak. Rich and buttery with a bold character.
Now, the moment of truth – my verdict. Woodford Reserve bourbon takes the lead in this head-to-head comparison in my book. It boasts a richer and smoother profile when sipped side by side, offering an all-around more pleasant drinking experience.
However, it’s essential to note that Gentleman Jack is by no means a subpar whiskey. It carries its own air of sophistication and complexity. It’s a whiskey that can certainly hold its own, and I wouldn’t turn down a second glass. It’s just that my palate leaned towards the sweeter notes of the Woodford Reserve bourbon.
In the UK, a bottle of Woodford Reserve retail for around £30 on Amazon and in comparison, the Gentleman Jack retail for around £31. Both these releases are in the affordable category.
As for my collection, I’ll be replenishing my bottle of Woodford Reserve without hesitation. So, whether you lean towards the elegance of Gentleman Jack or the bold allure of Woodford Reserve, one thing’s for sure – both these fine spirits are worthy of a spot in any whiskey lover’s collection.
Also Read: Woodford Reserve Rye vs Bulleit Rye whiskey
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