This is a top notch bourbon in all aspects and I don’t agree with the negatives that I’ve been seeing this get (almost all are completely based on price and not the whiskey). I think most people who appreciate bourbon can agree that regular Woodford reserve is one of the most quintessential bourbons out there. Ever since I first tried Woodford, I wanted to know what the barrel proof would taste like and I finally got my answer. This is a much more rich bourbon than the regular Woodford with all the same notes. It has an oily consistency that coats the palate extremely well and provides a smooth and lasting finish. I get brown butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup up front. I get a big cherry bomb on the mid palate with a nice spicy oak finish that sticks with you. I don’t believe bringing this up along with the double oaked does either bourbon justice as they are not even remotely trying to come across as the same bourbon. Also, I believe it’s extremely important to not let price affect a review and just judge the whiskey based on the whiskey itself. All things considered, this taste very much like a top shelf bourbon. It’s complex, highly drinkable, and all around a unique experience. I paid MSRP and don’t regret it in the slightest. After all, the best whiskey is the whiskey you like the way you like to drink it.