Woodinville 9 Year Bourbon Review

Table of Contents

About Woodinville Distillery

Woodinville Whiskey Co., founded in 2010 by Brett Carlile and Orlin Sorensen, has steadily built a reputation as one of the premier craft bourbon producers in the United States. Known for their dedication to quality, patience, and innovation, the distillery partnered with Independent Stave Company to create what they believe is the ultimate bourbon barrel. Their unique process uses 24-month open-air seasoned staves that are then heavily toasted and lightly charred, coaxing deep layers of caramel, vanilla, spice, and oak from the wood.

The new Woodinville 9 Year Bourbon is the second release in an ongoing series of age-stated expressions, following last year’s 8 Year release and leading into a highly anticipated 10 Year edition set for 2026. Together, these bourbons give fans the rare opportunity to experience how Woodinville’s whiskey evolves as it matures.

The 9 Year will make its debut at Woodinville’s 15th Anniversary Harvest Release on Saturday, August 23rd, 2025. Only the first 500 bottles will be available in person at the distillery, with a nationwide rollout beginning the following week.

In addition to the 9 Year, Woodinville will also be releasing five barrels of their Triple Barrel II — a 5+ year flagship bourbon finished in used Islay Scotch and Ruby Port barrels. Bottled at 92 proof (MSRP $69.99), this expression will only be available in person at their Woodinville tasting room during the Harvest Release.

Bottle Details

Type: Straight Bourbon Whiskey
ABV: 50% (100 proof)
Mash Bill: 55% corn, 35% rye, 10% malted barley
Age: 9 years
Distillery: Woodinville Whiskey Co. (Woodinville, Washington)
Barrel Program: 24-month open-air seasoned staves, heavy toast, light char
MSRP: $129.99 (limited release, distillery + select online sales)
Availability: First 500 bottles released August 23rd, 2025 at Woodinville’s Harvest Release celebrating their 15th anniversary. Nationwide rollout begins the following week.

Tasting Notes

Nose

This was easily my favorite part of the pour — rich, layered, and downright stunning. Dark caramel and vanilla custard hit first, followed by toffee, nougat, roasted nuts, and warm baking spices. A mature oak backbone ties everything together, with subtle hints of dried fruit and cocoa weaving through.

Palate

On the palate, you get that classic Woodinville grain note — what I’ve often described as sawdusty or lumberyard-like — but here it’s much smoother, rounder, and more elegant thanks to the extended time in oak. Toffee, molasses, and honey coat the tongue, accented by nutmeg, cinnamon, and a touch of peppery rye spice. The toasted oak influence adds depth and warmth without becoming bitter.

Finish

Medium-to-long with layers of oak, caramel, and baking spice. There’s a touch of dryness at the very end, but it’s balanced by lingering sweetness, making each sip feel complete.

How Much Would I Pay for Woodinville 9 Year Bourbon?

💰 Max Price I’d Pay: $130

⭐ Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️¼ (4.25 / 5)

🥃 Experience Scale: A mature, balanced pour that highlights Woodinville’s expert craftsmanship.

🥃 Should You Buy Woodinville 9 Year Bourbon?
Yes — especially if you’re a Woodinville fan. This is the distillery’s signature profile, fully developed and refined, with an incredible nose and satisfying palate.

Is Woodinville 9 Year Bourbon Worth It?

Absolutely. The Woodinville 9 Year shows just how far patience and thoughtful barrel design can take a bourbon. The nose is exquisite, the palate strikes the perfect balance between grain character and oak depth, and the finish leaves you wanting another pour.

With the Harvest Release serving as both a celebration of Woodinville’s 15th anniversary and the debut of this bourbon, it’s a must for fans who can make it to the distillery. The addition of Triple Barrel II — finished in both Islay Scotch and Ruby Port barrels — makes the event even more exciting.

The 9 Year follows last year’s 8 Year release, and Woodinville has already confirmed a 10 Year edition coming in 2026. While it’s not clear if the 10 Year will be the last release in this series, each step has shown a fascinating evolution. If the 9 Year is this good, the 10 Year could be something truly special — and I, for one, can’t wait to see where Woodinville takes it next.