Click here for the first part of this comparison – comparing the 3 anchor products from these distilleries
Woodford Reserve
Alternative: Woodford Reserve Double Oaked
Who’s buying it?
The same crowd as the original Woodford Reserve—people who want to look good while drinking, but this time they’re flexing harder. These are the folks who want to impress with their sophisticated taste and a little extra flair. They’ve discovered that Double Oaked is the next level of “premium” and have successfully convinced themselves it’s an upgrade from the classic. Essentially, they’re the ones who enjoy talking about the subtle nuances of oak while toasting to their flawless taste.
The flavor here is actually different—it’s richer and more complex, thanks to the second round of aging in toasted barrels. The result? It has a smooth, buttery texture with deeper notes of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak. The sweetness is more integrated, and the whole thing feels more substantial than the regular Woodford Reserve.
Is it worth it? Yes, absolutely. For $50–60, you’re getting a more refined bourbon experience that still maintains that sense of “premium” without being as boring as the original. Plus, it doesn’t have that nagging feeling of “I’m paying for the label” like the base version does. So if you want a more complex, well-rounded pour, this is a much better choice.
Angel’s Envy
Alternative: Angel’s Envy Cask Strength
Who’s buying it?
This is for the “hardcore enthusiast” who’s bought into the Angel’s Envy brand but wants the next step up. These are the folks who scoff at the regular port-finished bottle and need something that’s more intense, more complex, and—let’s be honest—more expensive. They’re buying into the mystique of “cask strength” because it sounds like a sophisticated, rare experience that’s bound to turn heads at their next whiskey tasting.
This is a much more concentrated, powerful version of Angel’s Envy. The port finish is more pronounced, the flavors are bolder, and it offers a depth that the regular bottle can’t touch. Expect big, rich notes of dried fruit, chocolate, and oak with a fiery finish. It’s not for the faint of heart—it’s high proof, so be ready for a punch. We aren’t talking about a 2024 Tyson punch, rather more of a 1986 ‘Vaya Con Dios’ type of Tyson punch.
Is it worth it? Hell yes, if you’re looking for something that’s both more unique and more flavorful than the regular Angel’s Envy. It’s a step up in terms of complexity and potency. If you like that port finish but want it to hit you harder (in a good way), this is where you go. Expect to pay $100+, though, so be prepared for the sticker shock.
Uncle Nearest 1856
Alternative: Uncle Nearest 1884 Small Batch
Who’s buying it?
This is the move for those who like the Uncle Nearest story and its smooth, easy-drinking style, but aren’t ready to drop serious coin for the 1856. The 1884 Small Batch is more affordable, which means this is for people who want to dabble in premium whiskey without committing to a more expensive bottle. It’s also perfect for those who want a great sipping whiskey that’s versatile—it works neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, and it doesn’t scream “I’m trying to make a statement,” like the 1856 might. These are the whiskey drinkers who enjoy a solid bourbon without all the pageantry.
The 1884 Small Batch offers a lot of the same smoothness and oak-forward notes as the 1856, but at a lower proof, which makes it a little more approachable. Expect flavors of caramel, vanilla, and a bit of spice.
Is it worth it? Yes, at $40–50, it’s a fantastic, value-oriented bourbon that gives you the core of what Uncle Nearest is about without the price tag. It’s easy to drink, delicious, and offers that rich, balanced flavor without any pretentious backstory. So, if you’re in the market for a daily sipper with some class and a bit of history, the 1884 Small Batch is a no-brainer.
The Updated Final Showdown
- Woodford Reserve:
- Alternative: Woodford Reserve Double Oaked
- Verdict: The Double Oaked is the step up that the regular Woodford Reserve should’ve been.
- Yes, it’s worth it. For just a little more money, you get a more complex, richer experience that’s far more satisfying than the standard offering.
- Angel’s Envy:
- Alternative: Angel’s Envy Cask Strength
- Verdict: If you’re going to pay that price for a port-finished bourbon, go all-in with the Cask Strength. It’s bold, it’s intense, and it gives you everything the regular Angel’s Envy promises but fails to deliver—without the cloying sweetness.
- Worth it? Absolutely, if you’re ready for a big, powerful pour.
- Uncle Nearest 1856:
- Alternative: Uncle Nearest 1884 Small Batch
- Verdict: The 1884 is the better option for most people—it’s cheaper, it’s smooth, and it still carries the quality and character you expect from Uncle Nearest without the premium price tag.
- Is it worth it? Yes, for the price, it delivers a high-quality sipping experience that’s just as good, if not better, than the 1856 in terms of everyday drinking.
The Takeaway
It’s time to stop spending money on bottles just because of their fancy labels or their backstories. These alternatives from each distillery offer better flavor, better value, and—dare I say it—actual substance. Whether you’re looking for something that’s more complex, more intense, or just more wallet-friendly, there are better choices than the anchor products. You don’t have to settle for the “standard” when the distilleries have already done the work to make something better just a little further down the shelf. Cheers to that.
