I think Woodford Reserve bourbon is high quality bourbon. It has that distinct 'acrid' copperish taste one often associates with Chris Morris' best efforts in the WR, Old Forester Birthday Bourbons. But, being one who seems to enjoy the benefits of extra years in the barrel, no WR bourbon (my opinion, of course) compares to the Birthday Bourbons (most around 12 years old) or the one of the best bourbons to come along in a long, long time - the Woodford Double Oaked.
I am comparing the '08 Birthday Bourbon to the WR Double Oaked. Both are (I no doubt do not need to, but will, remind you, that this is only my opinion), blessed (cursed?) with that acrid metallic taste that so many find objectionable, and with the tannins from the oak. The same tannins that moderate the barrel sweetness but lengthen the whole tasting experience and add organic complexity to the flavors. But, the greatest contribution of extra aging is so very hard to adequately describe - because, yes, it is subtle.
Subtlety in whiskey is what softens everything you taste. In a subtle bourbon, neither the sweetness, nor the spice, and certainly not the alcohol dominates. But it is a delicate matter to achieve this bourbonic state. The tannins are given more than the usual role in these whiskies, and therein lies a risk. Tannins are mouth drying, and offer a certain bitter quality, that, if pushed too far, are objectionable.
What is too far? Your palate, with experience, will tell you. My tolerance for, and like of, tannins, if no doubt more than most. But, it is my contention that the proper amount of tannins balance the Bourbon in terms of its sweetness, its spice, its alcohol, and its finish. To the palate attuned to their attractions, they lengthen everything, making the Bourbon body fuller and more complex.
I would like to say that experience with older bourbons tends to support my opinion, but there are those who disagree, who have more experience, and better palates than mine.
Still, how could I write from any other perspective than my own? I seem to be the lone voice here, and you are always free to ignore my opinions.