Woodford Reserve’s Latest Release – Chocolate Whisperer Redux

Woodford Reserve is bringing back its chocolate malt influence with the new Chocolate Whisper Redux 139.4, a 12-year-old bourbon bottled at a massive 139.4 proof (69.7% ABV). This is the highest proof whiskey Woodford has ever released, and according to Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall, the high ABV contributes to an extra-long finish and bold flavors. The original Chocolate Malt Whisper in 2021 was a happy accident, but this time, Woodford is intentionally revisiting those deep chocolate malt notes as part of its experimental Distillery Series. A limited number of bottles will be available at the distillery, online, and at select Kentucky retailers.

As a fan of chocolate malted whiskeys, this release has me intrigued. I already enjoy Woodford’s profile, and the high proof makes me curious—will it be overpowering, or will it still be approachable while letting the chocolate notes shine through? Unfortunately, this is a bottle I’ll likely never get my hands on, but based on what I know, I think it would be right up my alley. Some of my favorite whiskeys have leaned into chocolatey notes, so in theory, this would be a must-try for me.