I’ve always heard that you shouldn’t mix your spirits when drinking — if you want to avoid a hangover. I also heard that politicians never lie, love always prevails and Texas men will buy you beer for free. I call bullshit on all of it. And so does Woodford Reserve, which is releasing its new Master’s Collection next month that will feature its signature bourbon finished with California’s Sonoma-Cutrer Pinot Noir.

Because this Woodford is aged/finished in a used red wine barrel instead of a new charred oak barrel, we Kentuckians know that it’s no longer bourbon — just a whiskey, but a whiskey I’d love to get my hands on and sample!

The new Master’s Collection was created through a partnership between Woodford’s master distiller, Chris Morris, and Sonoma-Cutrer’s wine director, Mick Schroeter.

“Our Master’s Collection has long been a favorite of mine to produce, as it gives me the chance to focus on and experiment with our five sources of flavor, one of the core attributes of Woodford Reserve,” says Morris. “The Sonoma-Cutrer Pinot Noir Finish allowed me to partner with Mick to develop a product that is particularly exciting, both for fans of Woodford Reserve and Sonoma-Cutrer.”

Schroeter points to the commitment to ingenuity that is constant throughout the history of both whiskey and wine.

“Both wine and whiskey are born out of a commitment to a craft that both pays tribute to tradition, and is inspired by a love of innovation,” he says. “Chris and I are excited to offer a spirit that brings the best of both categories to life for fans of the brands.”

The Master’s Collection will be available around town beginning in November. But with a price tag of $99.99 for a bottle, I’m hoping I can find it in a bar or from a generous friend.

You know where to find me!