From Labrot & Graham Distillery, the Woodford Reserve Distiller's Select (it's full name) is a deceptively smooth but sharp-biting bourbon, which weighs in a 45.2% alcohol (or 90 proof, fer us Yankees). Sipped neat, the alcohol bite is nearly overpowering, numbing the mouth briefly in a quick blast before fading swiftly away in a welter of flavors which are gone too fast. Successive sips, as the ice melts into the drink, allow it to offer the subtones which are only sensed generally on that first excursion.
There is a strong caramel to this bourbon, which never goes away but is balanced to a greater or lesser degree by other tastes. Anise, in the early stages; refined licorice in the middle, with a finish (breathe out through the nose) of sharp, aromatic oak. There is orange in there, along with a hint of lime, perhaps? An almost cinnamon flavor can be detected during the exhalation, if you do so through your nose. Mmmmm.
This liquor is recommended not only for its straight quality, but for the changeability of the drink as you go down the glass. Plus, it's got more of a kick than the 'standard' bourbons, which may or may not be to your liking. It's attractively presented in a squared-off, shallow glass bottle (sort of flask-like) with a cork. It lends a rich, deep brown and orange to the glass.