Angel’s Envy vs Woodford Reserve

Angel’s Envy and Woodford Reserve are two of the most popular bourbons on the market today. Both are highly respected and have a loyal following of fans. While they share many similarities, there are also some key differences between the two that set them apart.

Angel’s Envy is a relatively new player in the bourbon world, having been founded in 2010. Despite this, it has quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality, unique bourbons that stand out from the crowd.

One of the things that sets Angel’s Envy apart is the fact that it is finished in port wine barrels, which gives it a distinct flavor profile. Woodford Reserve, on the other hand, is a more traditional bourbon that has been around since the late 1990s. It is known for its smooth, balanced flavor and is often used as a benchmark for other bourbons.

When comparing Angel’s Envy and Woodford Reserve, there are a few key factors to consider. These include things like flavor profile, price, and availability. Both bourbons have their own unique characteristics, and the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon drinker or just starting out, it’s worth taking the time to explore both Angel’s Envy and Woodford Reserve to see which one you prefer.

Understanding Bourbon

Bourbon is a type of American whiskey that is primarily made from corn.

It is a distilled spirit that is aged in charred oak barrels, and it must be produced in the United States to be considered bourbon. While many states produce bourbon, Kentucky is known as the heart of bourbon country and is home to many of the most famous bourbon distilleries.

The mash bill, or the recipe of grains used in the production of bourbon, is an important factor in determining the flavor profile of the finished product. Bourbon must be made from a mash bill that is at least 51% corn. The remaining grains can vary, but they typically include malted barley and either rye or wheat.

The use of corn in the mash bill gives bourbon its trademark sweetness, while the malted barley provides enzymes that convert the starches in the grains into fermentable sugars. Rye or wheat can add spicy or nutty notes to the finished product.

When it comes to bourbon, the aging process is just as important as the mash bill. Bourbon must be aged in new, charred oak barrels for a minimum of two years to be considered straight bourbon. The charred oak barrels impart flavors of vanilla, caramel, and oak to the bourbon, while also imparting a rich amber color.

Angel’s Envy Overview

Angel’s Envy is a Kentucky-based distillery that was founded by Lincoln Henderson and his son Wes Henderson. Lincoln Henderson was a master distiller with over 40 years of experience in the industry, and he is credited with creating some of the most iconic bourbon brands in the world.

Angel’s Envy is known for its unique aging process, which involves finishing the bourbon in port wine barrels. This imparts a rich, sweet flavor profile to the whiskey that is unlike anything else on the market. The port wine barrels used by Angel’s Envy are specially sourced from Portugal, and they are carefully selected to ensure that they meet the distillery’s exacting standards.

Angel’s Envy has won numerous awards for its bourbon, including several gold medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. The brand has become synonymous with quality and innovation in the bourbon industry, and it is highly regarded by both casual drinkers and connoisseurs alike.

When it comes to the drinking experience, Angel’s Envy delivers a distinct flavor profile that is rich and sweet, with notes of vanilla, caramel, and toasted oak. The finish is warm and lingering, with a subtle hint of baking spice that adds a nice complexity to the whiskey.

Woodford Reserve Overview

Woodford Reserve is a premium bourbon whiskey produced by Brown-Forman, a well-known American spirits and wine company. It is a highly complex and quality whiskey that delivers a rich and sweet drinking experience.

The flavor profile of Woodford Reserve is well-balanced, featuring delicate hints of wood, mint, vanilla, and caramel. On the palate, it presents a smooth character with a remarkable combination of sweetness and spice. The oak presence is skillfully balanced, complemented by notes of cinnamon, mint, and a rich fruity undertone.

Woodford Reserve is aged in charred oak barrels, which gives it a deep amber color and a complex flavor profile. The aging process affects the flavor of this bourbon, giving it a unique taste that is hard to replicate. The whiskey is bottled at 45.2% ABV (90.4 proof), making it a high-proof bourbon that packs a punch.

Tasting Notes

Angel’s Envy Tasting Notes

Angel’s Envy is a unique bourbon that offers a distinct flavor profile. On the nose, it presents a rich aroma of ripe fruit, vanilla, and baking spice.

When tasted, it delivers a smooth and creamy body with a balanced combination of sweetness and spice. The oak presence is skillfully balanced, complemented by notes of cinnamon, chocolate, and bread. The finish is long and warming, with a touch of honey and citrus.

The sweetness of Angel’s Envy is noticeable, but it is not overpowering. The vanilla notes are present but subtle, providing a creamy mouthfeel. The cinnamon and baking spice notes add a layer of complexity to the bourbon, while the ripe fruit notes provide a pleasant fruity undertone. The chocolate and bread notes are also noticeable, adding a touch of richness to the bourbon.

Woodford Reserve Tasting Notes

Woodford Reserve is a classic bourbon that embodies what an excellent bourbon should be. On the nose, it offers a pleasant and light aroma, featuring delicate hints of wood, mint, vanilla, and caramel.

When tasted, it presents a well-balanced combination of sweetness and spice, achieving a remarkably smooth character. The oak presence is skillfully balanced, complemented by notes of cinnamon, mint, and a rich fruity undertone.

The sweetness of Woodford Reserve is well-balanced, with the vanilla and caramel notes providing a creamy mouthfeel. The cinnamon and mint notes add a layer of complexity to the bourbon, while the fruity undertone provides a pleasant fruity sweetness. The oak presence is noticeable but not overpowering, adding a touch of woodiness to the bourbon.

In comparison to Angel’s Envy, Woodford Reserve has a lighter body and a more delicate flavor profile. The sweetness is less pronounced, and the oak presence is more subtle. However, both bourbons share a remarkable smoothness and a well-balanced combination of sweetness and spice.