One question that comes up frequently is, Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel vs Woodford Reserve bourbon whiskey – which one should I buy, or which of these two releases is better?” Now, proclaiming one to be superior to the other is challenging. Why, you ask? Well, it’s because each of us has our unique taste preferences when it comes to whiskey.
Personally, I lean towards the sweeter, sherry-finished whiskies and relish a bourbon with a delightful vanilla sweetness. However, I’ve also cultivated an appreciation for the bolder, peatier drams from the mystical Islay region.
In contrast, my husband John leans towards the heavier, spicier whiskies. So, let’s clarify: this series isn’t about declaring what’s good or bad. It’s about guiding you between these two remarkable releases.
If you’re in the mood for something sweeter, lean towards option A, but if you crave that smoky allure, option B is your ticket. So this series is not to define what is good and bad. It is to say, between these 2 releases, if you are looking for something sweeter, choose A. If you are looking for something with smoke, choose B.
Now, let’s delve into a detailed comparison of two heavyweights in the Brown-Forman stable – Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel vs Woodford Reserve. Both of these whiskeys have secured a permanent place in my liquor cabinet.
Following this comparison, I’ve undertaken numerous other head-to-head matchups, including the epic Johnnie Walker Blue vs. XR and Old No. 7 vs. Gentleman Jack whiskey showdown.
Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Whiskey
Firstly, let’s clear the air on Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel. While many might mistake it for bourbon, it’s officially categorised as Tennessee whiskey. The secret here is the Lincoln County Process, an extra step in the production journey. The whiskey undergoes filtration through a towering stack of sugar maple charcoal, standing 10 feet tall.
This unique process, often called “mellowing” by the folks at Jack Daniel’s, effectively removes impurities and mellows out the corn flavours. After the filtration process, it’s aged in freshly charred American oak barrels and stored in the uppermost section of the warehouse.
The drastic temperature swings in this location work their magic, deepening the colour and enhancing the flavour profile. The mash bill for this particular release comprises 80% corn, 12% malted barley, and 8% rye.
Woodford Reserve Bourbon Whiskey
On the other side of the ring, we have Woodford Reserve, a distinguished name in small-batch Kentucky bourbon. Crafted within one of Kentucky’s oldest distilleries, Woodford Reserve brings its A-game with a unique mash bill.
Here, they utilise a higher percentage of rye – 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% malt. What sets this bourbon apart is its triple distillation and entry into the barrel at a lower proof, allowing it to mature gracefully for at least six years.
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Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel vs Woodford Reserve Bourbon
| Woodford Reserve | Jack Daniel's Single Barrel | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Bourbon | Tennessee Whiskey |
| ABV | 43.2% | 47% |
| Mash bill | 72% corn, 18% rye, 10% balted barley | 80% corn, 12% malted barley, 8% rye |
| Colour | Clear honey amber | Dark Copper with hints of mahogany |
| Nose | Honey sweetness with apricots and oranges. There are bits of condensed milk richness mixed with vanilla and hints of spices | Ripe red berries, vanilla, a hint of mint, caramel sweetness, bits of toasted oak |
| Palate | Oak and sweetness perfectly balanced with a bit of apricot and cinnamon spiciness. There are notes of tangy winter fruits and vanilla mixed with toffee. Rich, buttery and smooth with a full body and a satisfying mouthfeel | Cherries layered with caramel, vanilla, hints of coffee and cereal balanced with cinnamon and pepper spice. It is rich and complex and the layers open up slowly when you take a second sip. Water releases some more of the sweetness and softens the pepper. |
| Finish | Long and lingering and ends in notes of sweet spices | Long and lingering and ends in notes of pepper and citrus |
| My Rating | Excellent | Excellent |
| Comments | Rich and buttery with a great balance between sweet and spicy. Pairs well with a Hawaiian pizza | Big and bold and has a yummy'ness that you don’t want to put down |
| Price | $40 | $54 |
| Pairs well with | Aged Parmesan cheese, dark chocolate or roasted hazelnuts | Lazy aged rump steak |
Side by side, the differences between these releases are noticeable. The Woodford Reserve is filled with oak, winter fruit, apricots and toffee. The Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel has more of a cherry, cinnamon and cereal character.
Both are bold and full bodied with a great finish. The Woodford finish is creamier with a great spiciness balancing the sweetness. The Single Barrel finish is warming with soft lemon pepper.
As I sat down for a tasting session, the question lingered: Which is my favourite? I found myself torn, as I genuinely adore both of these releases. But then, in his infinite wisdom, John helped me see the light. They can both be favourites; they’re simply meant for two entirely different occasions.
Woodford Reserve is the quintessential easy-drinking bourbon, perfect for sharing with friends, a true crowd-pleaser. In contrast, Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel is reserved for those late-night, contemplative conversations by the flickering firelight, igniting philosophical musings and bonding over life’s complexities.
So, my dear whiskey enthusiasts, the choice between these two stellar bottles ultimately comes down to the moment you wish to create – one filled with camaraderie or one that stirs the depths of your soul.
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