Woodford Reserve Rye is a smooth, approachable Kentucky straight rye that earns its place on our West Seattle shelf by being easy to love. Made by Brown-Forman at the historic Woodford Reserve Distillery near Versailles, Kentucky, it follows the old Kentucky tradition of a rye built on a generous helping of corn, so it drinks softer and rounder than many spice-bomb ryes. At Camp West we pour it for guests who want the character of rye without the bite, and for bartenders it is a reliable, balanced base for classic cocktails.
About the Distillery
Woodford Reserve is produced at one of Kentucky’s most storied sites, the distillery near Versailles formerly known as the Old Oscar Pepper and later Labrot & Graham distillery, now operated by Brown-Forman. The brand is known for its measured, refined house style, and the rye expression brings that same sense of craft to a grain that can often run hot and sharp.
Style & Mash Bill
This is a Kentucky straight rye whiskey built on a mash bill of 53% rye, 33% corn, and 14% malted barley. That relatively high corn content is the key: it is a “barely legal” rye in the Kentucky tradition that keeps the rye spice present but rounds it with sweetness and body. It is bottled at 90.4 proof (45.2% ABV).
Tasting Notes
The nose offers spearmint, black pepper, and orchard fruit over a base of vanilla. The palate brings rye spice and clove balanced by caramel, baking apple, and a touch of cocoa from the corn and barley. The finish is warm, gently spicy, and clean. It is a rye that stays civil and rewards slow sipping.
How to Enjoy It at Camp West
We pour Woodford Reserve Rye for $13. Neat, its mint-and-spice character shines. Over a large cube it becomes an easy, refreshing sipper. It truly excels in cocktails, lending balanced spice to a Manhattan, a Sazerac, or a rye Old Fashioned without overpowering the other ingredients. Ask your bartender for a recommendation.
FAQ
Is Woodford Reserve Rye a spicy rye? It is moderately spicy. Its mash bill includes a high proportion of corn in the Kentucky tradition, which softens and rounds the rye character.
Where is Woodford Reserve Rye made? It is made by Brown-Forman at the Woodford Reserve Distillery near Versailles, Kentucky.
Come pour one with us. Book a table, browse the full whiskey list, or explore our complete beverage menu.