Gooderham & Worts Four Grain Canadian Whisky: A Harmony of Heritage and Innovation
Experience a uniquely rich and complex Canadian whisky with Gooderham & Worts Four Grain Canadian Whisky. Paying homage to one of Canada's oldest and most significant distilling legacies, this exceptional whisky revives the pioneering spirit of its namesake, delivering a profile that is both traditional and wonderfully modern.
What sets Gooderham & Worts Four Grain apart is its meticulous blend of four distinct grain whiskies: corn, rye, wheat, and malted barley. Each grain is distilled separately—using a combination of double column, once column, and pot distillation methods—and then individually aged before being expertly blended by Master Blender Dr. Don Livermore at the Hiram Walker & Sons Distillery in Windsor, Ontario. This approach allows the unique characteristics of each grain to shine through, creating a whisky of remarkable balance and layered flavor. Bottled at a slightly higher-than-average 44.4% ABV (88.8 Proof), Gooderham & Worts Four Grain delivers a full, round, and smooth spirit with an evolving taste that invites continuous exploration.
Key Characteristics:
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Four Grain Blend: Crafted from a precise blend of corn, rye, wheat, and malted barley whiskies, each contributing unique flavor components.
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Individual Grain Distillation & Aging: Each grain is distilled and aged separately, then masterfully blended, allowing for optimal flavor development and complexity.
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Higher Proof (44.4% ABV / 88.8 Proof): Delivers a more robust and flavorful experience than typical Canadian whiskies, while remaining exceptionally smooth.
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Rich & Complex Profile: Offers a harmonious balance of sweetness, spice, and grainy notes with a creamy mouthfeel.
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Tribute to History: Honors the legacy of the original Gooderham & Worts distillery, which dates back to 1832.
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Versatile Enjoyment: Excellent for sipping neat, on the rocks, or as a sophisticated base for classic whisky cocktails.
Tasting Notes:
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Appearance: Deep gold to burnished copper.
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Nose: Rich and inviting, with hints of toffee, vanilla, and fresh-baked bread. Spicy rye notes are present, complemented by subtle floral undertones, red apples, and a touch of roasted nuts.
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Palate: Smooth, creamy, and complex. Flavors of sweet caramel and butterscotch lead, followed by warming rye spice and mature oak. Notes of dried fruits (like apricots or raisins), fresh grains, and a subtle hint of green apple add depth and vibrancy. The palate grows creamy and mouth-filling as it develops.
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Finish: Warm and lingering, with a gentle spice, evolving peppery glow, and a hint of oak, dark fruits, and pithy orange peels, leaving a satisfying and memorable impression.
Awards & Recognition:
Gooderham & Worts Four Grain Canadian Whisky has received significant critical acclaim since its re-introduction:
- World's Best Canadian Blended – World Whiskies Awards 2017
- Connoisseur Whisky of the Year (Domestic) – Canadian Whisky Awards 2017
- Gold Medal – San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2017
- Silver Medal – World Whiskies Awards 2019
- Gold Medal – Canadian Blended (No Age Statement) – World Whiskies Awards 2020
- 94 Points – Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2018
- Consistently praised by consumers and critics for its craftsmanship, unique grain blend, and impressive complexity.
Overall Impression:
Gooderham & Worts Four Grain Canadian Whisky is a true standout in the Canadian whisky landscape. By meticulously blending whiskies from corn, rye, wheat, and barley, and bottling at a precise higher proof, it offers a sophisticated and engaging experience that pays tribute to its storied past while embracing modern palates. Whether you're a seasoned whisky connoisseur seeking a complex and evolving dram or looking to explore the diversity and quality of Canadian whiskies, Gooderham & Worts Four Grain is an exceptional choice that delivers depth, balance, and a wonderfully smooth finish.
