Woodinville Bourbon Sauternes Cask: A Journey of Distinction

Woodinville’s commitment to fine American whiskey shines bright with their latest offering, a bourbon finished in Sauternes casks that promises to warm both the heart and senses.

An exquisite pour from Woodinville Whiskey

Nestled in the heart of Washington, Woodinville Whiskey quickly climbed to recognition, demonstrating that excellence in whiskey isn’t confined to Kentucky. Their new limited-release bourbon, finished in the sweet, golden embrace of Sauternes casks, adds another layer to their legacy of craftsmanship. For those unacquainted, Sauternes is a renowned dessert wine, famously made from grapes touched by noble rot, particularly in the Bordeaux region.

My personal introduction to Woodinville came around four years ago when a friend recommended it during a spirited discussion on diverse whiskies. Intrigued, I secured three bottles of their straight bourbon, and it swiftly transitioned into my go-to base for Old Fashioned cocktails and as a delightful pour enjoyed neat.

Crafted to perfection, ready for discovery

Curiosity surged as I approached the Sauternes cask-finished bourbon, with hopes buoyed by my previous experiences. Amidst an unseasonably warm autumn afternoon in the mid-Atlantic, I poured a glass to see how this latest creation would compare to their esteemed straight bourbon.

Understanding the science behind the Sauternes finish is pivotal. The wine itself boasts a luscious sweetness due to the grapes’ unique fermentation process, involving Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Muscadelle grapes. This interplay of flavors during the aging process usually results in a whiskey that balances sweetness and depth, perfect for post-meal enjoyment or leisurely afternoons.

Finishing touches that add complexity

After maturing for an undisclosed duration that likely spans five years, this bourbon takes a final leap in flavor as it rests in emptied Sauternes barrels, gaining the essence of the sweet wine.

Upon inhaling the rich bouquet of this whiskey, I was met with an unexpected note of candied yams, followed by inviting aromas of baked apples and a whisper of green grapes. The color in the glass was captivating, and my first sip introduced me to a delightful medley of vanilla, pecans, and a subtle hint of baked goods that intrigued my palate further.

With each sip, the bourbon’s spice came alive, culminating in a prolonged, satisfying finish. Cinnamon sugar made an appearance on the palate, suggesting a robust rye content in the mash bill, lending an exciting complexity to the tasting experience.

Notes of sweetness and spice intermingle beautifully

In 2024, Woodinville Bourbon Sauternes Cask earned Double Platinum recognition in Fred Minnick’s ASCOT competition, a testament to the exceptional quality this bourbon delivers. With its 105 proof, the whiskey reveals itself marvelously, offering a drinking experience that feels smooth and less aggressive than expected. I opted to enjoy it neat, experiencing the full spectrum without the dilution of water or ice.

This bourbon provides a genuine warmth, perfect for crisp days ahead. As I savor each sip, I look forward to sharing this delightful pour with friends and family. The Woodinville team has once again created a stellar offering, inviting us all to embrace the season with a ‘warm hug in a glass’.
Explore more about Woodinville Whiskey and its array of offerings by following this link for their flagship and limited releases.

Exceptional craftsmanship in every bottle