PREVIOUS BATCHES
BATCH 033
A blend of straight Bourbon Whiskeys
Distilled and aged in Tennessee, Kentucky and Indiana
Selection of 5, 6, 7, and 9-year-old barrels
Aged in American white oak barrels
Bottled in Kentucky
116.6 proof cask strength bottling
AWARDS:
-
ASCOT Awards (2023)
-
DOUBLE PLATINUM
-
-
Ultimate Spirits Challenge (2023)
-
93 POINTS
-
-
John Barleycorn Awards (2022)
-
GOLD
-
-
Cigar & Spirits (2022)
-
DOUBLE GOLD
-
FLAVOR NOTES
Barrell Bourbon Batch 033 is a marriage of high-rye barrels and high-corn barrels ranging in age from 5 to 9 years old. The high-rye barrels were chosen for their distinct stone fruit, black pepper, and nutmeg notes. The high-corn barrels were chosen for their rich butterscotch, coffee, and citrus notes. Two sets of barrels mingled together for two months, then the balance was adjusted for the most optimal combination.
Barrell Bourbon Batch 033 displays all the complexity of a blend of different distillates given time to blossom. Barrel character adds some diverse leafy notes at the margins without an overabundance of extractive woody or spice notes.
Neat
Appearance: Citrine set in yellow gold.
Nose: Pear, lemon meringue, and shoofly pie set the stage for a bourbon deftly balanced between freshness and maturity. A bouquet of jasmine, nasturtium, and dandelion speak to a youthful exuberance, while peppermint and gentian root depict an oak barrel just creeping in. A gentle savory character expands into edamame, macadamia nut, and mesquite smoke.
Palate: Champagne, applesauce, and candied grapefruit peel show ample maturity without an excessive oak. The baking spice character is dialed up slightly, exhibiting cocoa powder, allspice, star anise, and juniper.
Finish: A burst of heat rides a wave of minerals across the palate that include limestone, beach sand, and salt-water taffy. Geranium, elderflower, and chamomile reinforce the nose’s bouquet. The finish fades to the slightly bitter prickle of returning gentian root and lime peel, wiping the palate clean.
With a few drops of spring water
The palate grows much more viscous; it’s rich and sweet with vanilla buttercream. The savory notes intensify, with pickled caper, fried mushroom and hush puppies leading the way. The fruity notes expand dramatically to include nectarine, honeydew melon, passionfruit, and coconut cream.
BATCH 032
A blend of straight Bourbon Whiskeys
Distilled and aged in Tennessee, Kentucky and Indiana
Selection of 5, 6, 7, and 10-year-old barrels
Aged in American white oak barrels
Bottled in Kentucky
115.34 proof cask strength bottling
AWARDS:
-
ASCOT Awards (2022, 2023)
-
PLATINUM
-
-
Ultimate Spirits Challenge (2022)
-
93 POINTS
-
-
John Barleycorn Awards (2022)
-
GOLD
-
-
Wine Enthusiast rating of 95
FLAVOR NOTES
Batch 032 began with a balance of two sets of barrels: a selection of 5 and 6-year-old barrels with a creamy and tropical profile and a selection of 6, 7 and 10-year-old barrels vatted for their complex, old, woody character. These two sets of barrels were slowly blended over three months. A small group of spice driven 7-year-old barrels with notes of cinnamon toast, coffee bean and chocolate were then carefully added to complete the blend. The result is a decadent and rich bourbon with layers of spice and nuttiness.
Focused squarely on fresh oak and grassy spirit, the aroma calls to mind chopping wood in the yard on a late summer’s morning. The palate is a similarly simple pleasure until a splash of water opens it up to reveal a massively textured whiskey: rich, and oily, it’s a trait that’s often described as “Kentucky chew.”
Neat
Appearance: Tawny.
Nose: A wildflower meadow showing dandelion, nasturtium, and fennel. The floral qualities are intense and concentrated. Late summer fruits round out the profile, among them Rainier cherry, watermelon, and crushed apple. It all integrates seamlessly with aromas of fresh oak, cedar, and applewood, with just a hint of char. The overall impression is that of splitting wood out in the yard when the trees are laden with fruit and the flowers haven’t yet begun to fade.
Palate: Cinnamon rolls arrive with rich, buttery brioche dough, gooey caramel, and a spicy kick of cinnamon. The spice quickly expands to include wasabi and ginger. It’s underpinned by a savory undertone of boiled peanuts, and French butter.
Finish: Quite crisp, with an initial burst of sea spray and lemonade. These fade to reveal lingering notes of raspberry eau-de-vie and pastis.
With a few drops of spring water
Dilution wedges the concentrated floral notes further apart to reveal a whole new level of complexity. Lavender, lemon verbena, and pawpaw fill out the meadow. The palate transforms, with sugars and oils combining with fine tannin, light astringency, and spicy black peppercorn to create a massive, chewy mouthfeel. The finish, meanwhile, is like walking into an old spice shop with the commingled flavors of bitter orange peel, fennel-seed, and turmeric.
BATCH 031
A blend of straight Bourbon Whiskeys
Distilled and aged in Tennessee, Kentucky and Indiana
Selection of 6, 7, 10, 15, and 16-year-old barrels
Aged in American white oak barrels
Bottled in Kentucky
111.2 proof cask strength bottling
AWARDS:
-
San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2022)
-
GOLD
-
-
ASCOT Awards (2022)
-
PLATINUM
-
-
Ultimate Spirits Challenge (2022)
-
FINALIST
-
95 POINTS
-
-
John Barleycorn Awards (2022)
-
DOUBLE GOLD
-
-
LA Spirits Awards (2021)
-
PLATINUM
-
-
Wine Enthusiast rating of 97
FLAVOR NOTES
Barrell Bourbon Batch 031 is a blend of 6, 7, 10, 15 and 16-year-old barrels. The blend was built around the sweetness in a group of 99% corn bourbon barrels and a group of wheated bourbon barrels. To bridge these two groupings, we layered in 15 and 16-year-old barrels for their gentle nuttiness and oak. Finally, a selection of 10-year-old barrels was added to bring notes of milk chocolate and tropical fruit.
A perfect autumn release, this batch’s notes of shortbread cookie, pumpkin pie, peppermint latte, and pine needles match the mood of sweater weather.
Neat
Appearance: Deep gold.
Nose: A rush of dry, notable oak, incorporating wormwood, tobacco, and pine needles. Curious and sweet with browned butter, candied walnut, and spiced apple pie. Other notes balance between woodsy and floral, such as thistle, milkweed, and poppyseed. As we emerge beyond the scope of oak, we find some fruity and sweet cream notes, the latter represented by peppermint latte and vanilla creme anglaise.
Palate: Moderate sweetness and juicy citrus make for quite an easy pour. The fruit sings loudest here -- pomegranate juice and strawberry rhubarb pie. Extractive elements of spice and tannin bring quince and ginger beer into the equation. The baking spice nods toward a Manhattan, garnished with an orange twist. Finally, some marshmallow root and pumpernickel take it in an earthier, cardoon-like direction.
Finish: A quick burst of heat announces smoked paprika, black peppercorn, and spearmint. As it subsides, demerara rum and black cherry soda emerge. Finally, it fades to leave only a little chalk and slate.
With a few drops of spring water
As is often the case, the oak gets pushed way back to reveal abundant tropical fruit, especially lime and passion fruit. The woodsy/floral balance also pitches over into the bouquet, displaying apple blossom, dogwood and rose. Creamed honey and grilled peach take over the plate, leaving behind fresh young ginger in the finish.
BATCH 030
A blend of straight Bourbon Whiskeys
Distilled and aged in Tennessee, Kentucky, Indiana, and Wyoming
Selection of 5, 6, 9, 10, 11, and 15-year-old barrels
Aged in American white oak barrels
Bottled in Kentucky
117.32 proof cask strength bottling
AWARDS:
-
San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2022)
-
DOUBLE GOLD
-
-
ASCOT Awards (2022)
-
DOUBLE PLATINUM
-
FLAVOR NOTES
Barrell Bourbon Batch 030 began with a group of tropical fruit forward 5-year-old Indiana barrels, a group of stone fruit forward 10-year-old high-rye Tennessee barrels, and a group of nutty 6, 9, 11, and 15-year-old barrels. After mingling separately for a month, they were carefully blended together. Finally, wheated bourbon from Kentucky and Wyoming was added to enhance the complexity of the blend.
An old-school bourbon that deftly balances the individuality of its many sources, incorporating notes of bright French cider with an array of subtle herbs, florals, and the richness of pumpkin pie. The oak is restrained, suggesting coconut and baking spices without overshadowing the spirit’s innate complexity.
Neat
Appearance: Rich and golden with a bright hue and a striking viscosity.
Nose: Bright and perfumed notes of French cider, inflected with quince and a touch of apple cider vinegar. As your nose adjusts, peach cobbler, pumpkin and fig take over. There’s an earthy side, displaying radishes and butter, tahini, and damp wool. The oak brings coconut macaroon, coriander, and peppermint, without smelling woodsy.
Palate: A sweet and tightly focused entry, tasting of coffee ice cream in an oatmeal raisin cookie sandwich. Basil, fennel seed, and a whole mug of chai round out the herb & spice register. Fruits are subtle but delightfully tropical, around orange curacao, pawpaw, and toasted coconut.
Finish: A burst of caramel and milk chocolate overwhelms the palate. As it fades, the tongue is left with rich, almost fatty notes of orgeat, chestnut honey, and beeswax. An exhale through the nose carries quite opulent aromas of molasses and fig.
With a few drops of spring water
While water usually subdues the oak, here it dials up, introducing crushed walnut, new leather, and a wisp of bonfire smoke. The palate, too, hews darker, with milk chocolate dominating the profile through the finish until only a lingering note of candied rose petal remains.
BATCH 029
A blend of straight Bourbon Whiskeys
Distilled and aged in Tennessee, Kentucky and Indiana
Selection of 6, 7, 9, 10, 14, and 16-year-old barrels
Aged in American white oak barrels
Bottled in Kentucky
115.88 proof cask strength bottling
AWARDS:
-
San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2022)
-
GOLD
-
-
Ultimate Spirits Challenge (2021)
-
91 POINTS
-
-
LA Spirits Awards (2021)
-
GOLD
-
-
Whisky Advocate Rating of 94
FLAVOR NOTES
The base of Barrell Bourbon Batch 029 is an herbal and viscous blend of Indiana bourbons. The blend was expanded with 6 and 7-year-old rye-grain Kentucky bourbon, chosen for its exotic cinnamon spice note and floral 9 and 10-year-old wheated bourbon. Finally, a small amount of 6, 14, and 16-year-old Tennessee bourbon was added for a fruity nose and a long, oxidative finish.
An initial burst of fruit: Williams pear and dried papaya on the nose, lime cordial on the palate; then a lengthy evolution through rye-driven mulling spices and rich oaky lactones. Ultimately, the profile settles comfortably into an array of dessert notes including treacle tart, milk chocolate, and Boal madeira.
Neat
Appearance: Roasted pumpkin flecked with bright gold.
Nose: A classical opening of brown sugar-laced oatmeal and freshly conditioned leather. As you swirl a Glencairn glass, Williams pear, cantaloupe, and mulled wine develop. Curiously, from a rocks glass the evolution is more tropical, leaning rather toward tangerine, dried papaya, and mint tea with honeycomb. In either case, herbs soon follow -- basil, dill, and wasabi powder. The aroma finally stabilizes into something resembling Pedro Ximenez sherry, displaying rosewater, treacle tart, and boiled cider.
Palate: Unmistakably cask strength. A bright, pithy lime cordial note is rounded out by Mirabelle plum and sugar snap pea. Once the palate has acclimatized, more traditional flavors of affogato, molasses, and roasted mixed nuts emerge
Finish: A bold salinity tugs at the taste buds, calling soft pretzel to mind. As it fades, soft flavors of milk chocolate and shredded coconut wash over the palate.
With a few drops of spring water
Leafy aromas of tarragon, pandan and celery come to the fore. Nutritional yeast and roasted parsnip reveal a lightly savory dimension. Meanwhile the palate grows much darker in character, as espresso beans and ripe puerh tea dominate. Levity returns on the finish, with unexpected notes of guava and cherry blossom.
BATCH 028
A blend of straight Bourbon Whiskeys
Distilled and aged in Tennessee, Kentucky and Indiana
Selection of 10 and 11-year-old barrels
Aged in American white oak barrels
Bottled in Kentucky
108.86 proof cask strength bottling
AWARDS:
-
Ultimate Spirits Challenge (2021)
-
92 POINTS
-
-
ASCOT Awards (2021)
-
DOUBLE PLATINUM
-
-
John Barleycorn Awards (2021)
-
GOLD
-
-
Whisky Advocate Rating of 92
FLAVOR NOTES
Barrell Bourbon Batch 028 is a blend of 10 and 11-year-old barrels created from a marriage of three distinct sub-groups of barrels. The first was aroma forward with notes of tropical fruit, citrus zest and exotic spices, identified to drive the nose of the final blend. The second group had a richness in the middle palate and a sweet, almond-like body. The third group was peppery and tannic, adding backbone and a savory, woodsy and earthy component. The final blend of Batch 028 allows each of these groups to shine through. It presents a bouquet of ripe tropical and sweet flower aroma backed up by a robust punch of rustic wood in the cadence and finish.
The bourbon begins with bright citrus, heady florals, and lively minerals. Sweetness is kept in check by a preponderance of opposing forces. That balance vanishes on the finish when it explodes with tropical fruits then gently fades away leaving only smoked sea salt at the end.
Neat
Appearance: An earthy orange hue, much like antique yarn dyed with tradition and left to age.
Nose: Maraschino liqueur and dried apricot lay a gentle, fruity foundation that recalls a boisterous chardonnay. Some rather sappy woodsy notes of rosemary and bamboo shoots. A touch of richness from cocoa butter and tallow.
Palate: Fruity in nature, yet well-balanced, so that nothing overwhelms. Candied praline sweetness is balanced by a smoked sea salt minerality. Brown butter richness is cut by a radicchio bitterness. Champagne-like acidity is matched by chalky tannin.
Finish: Complex and tropical, it first explodes with lychee, grapefruit peel, dragonfruit, and strawberry. Some dusty tannin on the tongue gives it length, evolving through lightly oxidized oolong tea and peppery gin until only smoked sea salt lingers.
With a few drops of spring water
The fruitiness is juicier, with cascara, purple plum and rosehip tea. Spices abound, including sassafras and black walnut, salmiak and dill.
BATCH 027
A blend of straight Bourbon Whiskeys
Distilled and aged in TN, KY, and IN
Selection of 5, 6, 8, 9, 13, and 15-year-old barrels
Aged in American white oak barrels
Bottled in Kentucky 115.7 proof cask strength bottling
AWARDS:
-
Ultimate Spirits Challenge (2021)
-
94 POINTS
-
TOP 100 SPIRITS
-
-
San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2021)
-
DOUBLE GOLD
-
-
ASCOT Awards (2021)
-
DOUBLE PLATINUM
-
-
John Barleycorn Awards (2021)
-
DOUBLE GOLD
-
-
Whisky Advocate Rating of 93
FLAVOR NOTES
Barrell Bourbon Batch 027 started with 6-year-old fruit forward barrels from Tennessee and 5-year-old spice forward barrels from Indiana. After these were blended together, 13 and 15-year-old barrels with more wood tannin and depth were layered in and a select number of 9-year-old barrels with a higher rye content were blended in for spice and assertiveness. Finally, 5 and 8-year-old wheated bourbon barrels were added to soften the batch, brighten the front palate, and solidify a cohesiveness to an otherwise extremely complex flavor profile.
Many bourbons just taste like caramel, some older bourbons taste like oak, but this -- this bourbon is a cherry bomb. At times bright and juicy, at others, brooding and oxidized, but while there are many flavors to be found, cherry stands above them all.
Neat
Appearance: Carrot.
Nose: Supporting notes that span sweet desserts, woodsy herbs, and rich oils, but their presence is an afterthought to the singular and intense focus of this whisky’s nose, and that focus is squarely on old, comforting cherry. The oak is sweet and nutty, displaying amaretto and sweet, raisonated grapes. Deeper bass notes of sweet potato pie, walnut shells, and freshly ground coffee flesh out the aromatic register. The influence of rye is subtle here, potpourri, earl grey tea, and bouquet garni whisper at the periphery.
Palate: The candied texture that falls short of syrupy and a just-gentle tannin suggest minimal oak extraction but significant concentration over long years spent slowly evaporating in a rickhouse. Like the nose, a bright, juicy acidity puts the focus squarely on a note of cherry so monumental that almost nothing else breaks through. A bit more floral than the nose, candied violet and lavender are just able to peek through, along with a steely minerality. Eventually, some oxidized notes evoke an old oloroso sherry, among them hazelnut, molé sauce, and stewed mushroom.
Finish: A gentle, yet complex finish that makes one imagine a flavor wheel in thin air. This mysterious yet fruity bourbon leaves the palate with blood orange, rosehip, hibiscus, and sumac.
With a few drops of spring water
Lychee, pineapple and honeydew melon emerge, and heather, sage, and cigar smoke lend a welcome complexity. This is followed by baklava, Boston cream pie, and a creamy brown ale, which lends a subtle hoppy note to the finish.
BATCH 026
A blend of straight Bourbon Whiskeys
Distilled and aged in TN, KY, and IN
Selection of 9, 10, 11, 13, and 15-year-old barrels
Aged in American white oak barrels
Bottled in Kentucky 112.64 proof cask strength bottling
AWARDS:
-
Ultimate Spirits Challenge (2021)
-
92 POINTS
-
-
San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2021)
-
DOUBLE GOLD
-
-
ASCOT Awards (2021)
-
GOLD
-
-
John Barleycorn Awards (2021)
-
DOUBLE GOLD
-
-
Whisky Advocate Rating of 93
-
Fred Minnick - Best American Whiskey Competition (2020)
-
BEST BLEND OF STRAIGHTS
-
FLAVOR NOTES
Barrell Bourbon Batch 026 was created by combining 9, 10, 11, 13 and 15-year-old barrels in several blending steps. The first was a fusion of 9-year-old high rye barrels peppery and pointed on the palate, 10-year-old oak forward barrels, and sweet, toasty 11-year-old barrels for mouthfeel and classic baking spice notes. The second balanced citrus forward 10, 12 and 15-year-old barrels with spicy, floral 9-year-old high rye barrels. These two blends were gradually co-mingled resulting in an intriguing bourbon that dances between fruit and spice long into its finish.
Like a well-aged Sauternes, a complex array of fresh, dried, and cooked fruits dominates the aroma, supported by pungent florals and a delicate layer of barrel-spice. The palate is concentrated and extractive, having pulled quite a lot of sugar and peppery spice from the cask. Water tames it, bringing forth a panoply of tropical fruits on the nose and creamy desserts on the palate.
Neat
Appearance: Pumpkin Pie.
Nose: Immediately bright and fruity, smelling of white peach, creamy coconut, and prickly rhubarb, followed by dried or cooked fruits, among them golden raisin, candied grapefruit peel, and roasted red pepper. Pungent florals are intermixed, notably rosehip and meadowsweet. As one’s nose adjusts, richer, sweeter notes of beeswax, toasted almond, and tiramisu arrive. They sit atop a dusting of allspice, spearmint, ginger ale and charcoal.
Palate: A bit brash, but well balanced and with only modest tannin. Initially the flavor is dark and complex, on molasses, black cherry soda, and root beer barrel candy. The palate is rounded out by slate, salt, green apple and a little horseradish.
Finish: Advances the cooked-fruit theme put forth by the nose, cycling through candied grapefruit peel, grape jam, cardamom and allspice. It fades with a mineral tingle of iron and wood smoke.
With a few drops of spring water
Tropical fruit aromas become the focus, particularly starfruit, pineapple, and limoncello. Geranium and vanilla lend to the exotic feeling. The palate grows richer and silkier, with toasted pumpernickel, quince paste, mocha and horchata.
BATCH 025
A blend of Straight Bourbon Whiskeys
Distilled and aged in Tennessee, Kentucky, and Indiana
Selection of 5.5, 9, 13, and 15-year-old barrels
Aged in American white oak barrels
Crafted and bottled in Kentucky
113.4 proof cask strength bottling
AWARDS:
-
San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2021)
-
Double Gold
-
-
ASCOT Awards (2020)
-
Platinum
-
-
New York International Spirits Competition (2020)
-
Gold
-
95 Points
-
-
L.A. Spirits Awards (2020)
-
Gold
-
-
Whisky Advocate rating of 94
FLAVOR NOTES
Batch 025 highlights the unique additions that secondary grains contribute to aged bourbon. 13 to 15-year corn-forward bourbons and 5 to 9-year-old wheated bourbons were slowly layered in with a selection of 9-year-old high-rye bourbons, revealing notes from the entire spectrum of available flavors. A portrait of finely tuned blending, Batch 025 is citrusy and peppery, without losing the opulence and oaky ease of the older ingredients.
High-toned and zesty, this bourbon initially resembles a glass of fine Madeira. But a little time, a splash of water, or an ice cube will unleash its sweet pastry notes, woodsy spice, and sweet, rich palate.
Neat
Appearance: Chestnut.
Nose: Opens very high-toned and estery, on pineapple, plum, apple jelly, and honeydew melon. Some actively fermenting mash notes of corn pudding and sunflower seeds sit just below. Much of that blows off after a few minutes, revealing sweet tones of chocolate covered espresso beans, maple syrup, and stroopwafel. As it evolves it gathers woodsy mulling spices, hazelnut, leather, and mesquite smoke.
Palate: Strawberry rhubarb pie, juicy fig and sour orange make for a bright and zesty arrival. Such acidic fruits mirror the nose and couple with limestone minerality and sandy tannin to yield a vinous mouthfeel. It grows richer as you savor a mouthful, developing cappuccino, macadamia nut and leather. More herbaceous than the nose, here allspice is joined by cassia and licorice root.
Finish: A quick, mineral burst of ink, graphite, and charcoal slowly fades out on Tia Maria.
With a few drops of spring water
The nose grows more focused, resembling a great hot toddy -- honey, orange zest and clove. Ripe banana emerges, joined by a little resinous rosemary and jasmine. The palate gets much thicker as gooey caramel takes center stage. It gets more floral as well, tasting of orris root and potpourri. The finish becomes rather delicate, with coffee ice cream being joined by dried fig and chamomile.
BATCH 024
A blend of Straight Bourbon Whiskeys
Distilled and aged in Tennessee, Kentucky, and Indiana
Selection of 9, 10, 13, and 15-year-old barrels
Aged in American white oak barrels
Crafted and bottled in Kentucky
113.9 proof cask strength bottling
AWARDS:
-
San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2021)
-
Double Gold
-
-
ASCOT Awards (2021)
-
Gold
-
-
Whisky Advocate rating of 93
FLAVOR NOTES
Barrell Bourbon Batch 024 is a marriage of high Rye Bourbons ranging in age from 9 to 15 years old. The 9, 10, and 13-year-old barrels were chosen for their peppery assertiveness, making this "spice box" marriage wonderfully robust yet a little rough around the edges. We refined the blend by adding in citrus forward, lower proof, 15-year-old barrels bit by bit, ensuring that the rye forward base would continue to shine, while delivering a lush mouthfeel.
A gentle nose balancing blonde tobacco, pear, and coffee ice cream belies an intense palate of cola and spice. Adding water creates a decadently syrupy texture while highlighting notes of musky passionfruit and forest floor.
Neat
Appearance: Molasses fading to ochre, with a bright, brassy rim.
Nose: Opens with vernal florals: apple blossom, blonde tobacco and spruce tip. These lead naturally into estival fruits: green banana, ripe pear, lychee and cherry. Prickly autumnal mulling spices and wintergreen lend complexity, as a sweet, wintery foundation is laid by pumpkin pie and coffee ice cream.
Palate: Chocolate ganache is balanced by tart white grapefruit orange bitters, mineral slate and salt, and savory dried porcini mushrooms, with a huge breadth of flavor. It’s notably spicy, showcasing ginger, cardamom, and black pepper. Cola is present with notes of rosemary, leather, and oak. Sandy tannin and heat keep the relatively sweet palate in check.
Finish: Creamy and sweet, maple cheesecake and hefeweizen start off. While gentler than the rollercoaster of a palate, there’s still plenty of complexity provided by cherry cordial, Aperol, and clove. It fades on red pepper flake and table salt.
With a few drops of spring water
The nose gets muskier, on aromas of overripe passionfruit, marigold and propolis. The palate, too, feels wilder and more complex, tasting of sweet vermouth, soy sauce, forest floor and pipe smoke.
BATCH 023
A blend of Straight Bourbon Whiskeys
Distilled and aged in Tennessee, Kentucky, and Indiana
Selection of 10, 12, and 15-year-old barrels
Aged in American white oak barrels
Crafted and bottled in Kentucky
107.78 proof cask strength bottling
AWARDS:
-
Ultimate Spirits Challenge (2020)
-
93 Points
-
-
Whisky Advocate rating of 92
FLAVOR NOTES
Barrell Bourbon Batch 023 is a blend of 10, 12 and 15-year-old barrels. We focused on a balance of richness and depth from the older barrels. The blend mingled for a couple of months to heighten the lushness and complexity. Finally, we methodically layered in 15-year-old barrels to bring out notes of tropical fruit and angelica spice. The result is an evolving bourbon with layers of flavor.
Cinnamon donuts lead into earthy notes of walnut, leather, and fallen leaves. Subtly fruity, with hints of white currant and honeydew melon peeking out over the classic rye spice of angelica, catnip and black licorice.
Neat
Appearance: A core of zincite ore fades to pale yellow.
Nose: Opens sweetly, on buttered pancakes with maple syrup and cinnamon donuts. Gradually the aroma shifts to exotic, earthy notes of forest floor, cracked walnut, leather, red miso, and incense. Fruits feel ancillary, but kiwi, white currant, mulled cider and raspberry pastille all make an appearance. The rye spice is pronounced, lending bay leaf, angelica and chocolate mint.
Palate: Gently sweet with chewy tannin, the evolution on the palate mirrors the nose. Honey, coffee cake and a touch of brownie taking the lead. Dry rose follows, on walnut shell, fallen leaves and portobello mushroom; reminiscent of an old Oloroso sherry. There’s a juicy brightness that makes notes of honeydew melon, grenadine and orange zest come alive.
Finish: Cinnamon donut accompanied by nocino, black licorice and tar. As it fades, it softens to leather, orange peel and apple blossom.
With a few drops of spring water
Fresh, with a bright sea salt note rounded out by oregano and catnip. The palate grows creamier, tasting of cereal milk.
BATCH 022
A blend of Straight Bourbon Whiskeys
Distilled and aged in Kentucky and Indiana
Selection of 5-year-old barrels
Aged in American white oak barrels
Crafted and bottled in Kentucky
116.6 proof cask strength bottling
AWARDS:
-
San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2020)
-
Double Gold
-
-
Ultimate Spirits Challenge (2020)
-
Finalist
-
96 Points
-
FLAVOR NOTES
Barrell Bourbon Batch 022 is a marriage of two separate and iconic styles of Bourbon: Classily dry and woody Kentucky Bourbon, and floral, herbaceous, and sweet Indiana Bourbon. The final blend was constructed from four separate lots, each with its own nuanced family of flavors. Much like Batches 007, 011, and 013, Batch 022 incorporates the freshness of some carefully chosen, younger barrels to bring a more extensive set of flavors and aromas to the table.
An elaborate herbal complexity that elegantly yields to beehive, nuttiness, and green fruits. Rich, sweet, and spicy, the palate opens up to reveal a panoply of desserts laid over an earthy backbone.
Neat
Appearance: An old leather belt with a polished brass buckle.
Nose: The rye grain is most immediate, presenting as Yellow Chartreuse and expanding in the direction of juniper berry, cream of fennel soup, and angelica. Woven throughout are delicate florals, alternating between elderflower and wintergreen. Gooseberry jam, kiwi and white peach emerge as a subtle fruitiness. Well-integrated oak lays a gentle foundation of Florentine cookie, vanilla toffee and cola. With time, other themes develop, such as sweet beehive and a savory or umami quality.
Palate: A rich entry- oily and sweet. The creamy texture evokes flan and cappuccino. The oak guides the flavor with sweet tea, s’more, and sugar cane. Root beer and cinchona bark ensure the rye spice is not neglected. Meanwhile, the underlying spirit provides honeysuckle, honeydew melon and candied apricot.
Finish: The sweet tea lingers, accompanied by chicory cafe au lait and Cherry Heering. It fades delicately on rhubarb and peppermint candy.
With a few drops of spring water
The palate takes on some earthy touches of granite and birch bark before fading as Fernet.
BATCH 021
A blend of Straight Bourbon Whiskeys
Distilled and aged in Tennessee, Kentucky, and Indiana
Selection of 10 to 14-year-old barrels
Aged in American white oak barrels
Crafted and bottled in Kentucky
106.34 proof cask strength bottling
AWARDS:
-
San Francisco World Spirits Challenge (2020)
-
Double Gold
-
Best Bourbon
-
Best Small Batch Bourbon
-
Best Bourbon 6-10 Year
-
-
Whisky Advocate. rating of 94
-
Whisky Advocate Editor's Choice Winter 2019
FLAVOR NOTES
Barrell Bourbon Batch 021 is the culmination of two separate projects used to contrast one another. The first is a blend of 10-year-old barrels from TN, IN, and KY. We sorted these barrels into 3 groups by their most defining characteristics: one group of the most corn-forward and buttery barrels, one group of the woodiest barrels, and one group of easy-drinking lower proof barrels. The result was three different ingredients, each designed to bring a particular aspect to the final product.
The balancing of these three ingredients proved difficult as the woodier ingredient so easily dominated the other two, but also brought a viscosity and mouth feel that we found very intriguing. Ultimately, we chose to integrate 18 carefully chosen 14-year-old barrels into the final blend. This allowed us to keep the dry, woody, and palate coating characteristics we loved so much in the 10-year-old blend by accenting them with a fruitier, gentler 14-year-old component. The result, Barrell Bourbon Batch 021 is a wonderfully autumnal bourbon, built on a dry toasty backbone with hints of butter and fruit layered in for complexity and contrast.
Tangy berries in a dry, oaky nose lead to a rich and nutty palate that showcases exotic notes of sumac and rose. The berries return in a long, spicy finish.
Neat
Appearance: Oiled Leather.
Nose: Opens with a tangy blackberry note supported by a dry oaky character. Blonde tobacco, sunflower seeds, iced tea, and cardamom are gradually joined by a growing peppermint note. Sweeter pastry notes such as cider donut, apricot danish and Turkish delights can be found. While not as floral as some batches, the nose is lifted by Creme Yvette, milkweed, pollen and peach skin. Slate and ginger ale offer a refreshing counterbalance.
Palate: Rich and nutty, cocoa butter supports ample macadamia nut, nougat, and tonka bean. Orange blossom honey and apricot are joined by more exotic notes of rose, loganberry and sumac.
Finish: The blackberry note from the nose returns alongside elderberry, and quince paste that evolve into lingering spicy notes of cocoa nib, aniseed and raspberry leaf.
With a few drops of spring water
The pastry and floral notes grow bolder, exhibiting almond croissant, hazelnut spread as well as buttercup, heather and saffron. The palate grows earthier, on licorice root, cassia bark and chestnut honey, while the finish dries out with crabapple, cranberry, and Amarena cherry.
BATCH 020
A blend of Straight Bourbon Whiskeys
Distilled and aged in Tennessee and Kentucky
Selection of 10 to 15-year-old barrels
Aged in American white oak barrels
Crafted and bottled in Kentucky
106.7 proof cask strength bottling
AWARDS:
-
San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2020)
-
Double Gold
-
-
Whiskies of the World Awards (2019)
-
Gold (Bourbon > 6 Years category)
-
-
Whisky Advocate. rating of 92
FLAVOR NOTES
Barrell Bourbon Batch 020 was blended from a selection of barrels from Tennessee and Kentucky. We started with 10-year-old barrels with a lush, prominent fruit profile and balanced them with 14-year-old oak-forward barrels resulting in a complex bourbon with an engaging brightness.
Sweet but not excessively oaky, this bourbon opens fruity and softly spiced while a floral side builds over time. Its flavor is focused but complex, with notes of Oolong tea and forest floor leading to a finish of punchy fruits and racy minerality.
Neat
Appearance: Light amber maple syrup with a burnt sienna core.
Nose: Opens sweetly, showcasing butterscotch, and hazelnut liqueur alongside deeply hued fruity notes of brandy, montmorency cherry, and black currant. With time the nose is lifted by lighter fruits -- pears poached in spiced wine and mirabelle plum; as well as by myriad flowers -- rose, cherry blossom, and hibiscus. Soft, woody spices in the form of star anise, and cedar lend balance while the whole is given depth by a surprising savory side, showcasing pain levain, cultured butter, toasted sesame and enoki mushroom.
Palate: Delivers much of the sweetness of oak without tasting particularly oaky; opening on honey, nougat, nocino, and salmiak. It seems almost roasted, tasting of espresso and charcoal pencil, before notes of oolong tea and forest floor reveal its depth.
Finish: Quite intense, with an array of fruits, particularly cranberry and kumquat, enlivened by a mineral signature of salt, graphite, rock pools and mastic. It fades gently on an assortment of spices, aniseed, licorice, cocoa nib, and hyssop.
With a few drops of spring water
The nose becomes richer, dense with fennel pollen, violet pastille, whole pineapple and neufchatel. The palate reveals more complexity, concord grape, gooseberry jam, lime zest, and kola nut.
BATCH 019
A blend of Straight Bourbon Whiskeys
Distilled and aged in Tennessee and Kentucky
Selection of 9.5 to 14-year-old barrels
Aged in American white oak barrels
Crafted and bottled in Kentucky
106.52 proof cask strength bottling
AWARDS:
-
San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2019)
-
Double Gold
-
-
Ultimate Spirits Challenge (2019)
-
Finalist
-
94 Points
-
-
Whisky Advocate. rating of 91
FLAVOR NOTES
Barrell Bourbon Batch 019 is a study in complexity. We sorted a careful selection of 9.5 to 14-year-old barrels from Kentucky and Tennessee into 5 groups. We then blended portions of those 5 groups together to maximize the unique qualities of each.
Barrell bourbon batch 019 is a classic bourbon. The sweet opening notes give way to nutty and herbaceous nuance, all overlaid by a lattice of barrel spice.
Neat
Appearance: Sherry cobbler.
Nose: Waffle soaked with syrup and honey roasted cashew. Subtle, herbaceous accents color the aroma: Benedictine liqueur, eucalyptus, Saaz hops and fried sage. Fruity notes are more subdued, though gooseberry, Mirabelle plum and orange zest lurk beneath the surface. Ginger ale and cardamom barrel spice settle over the top.
Palate: The initial impression is of power, but it’s checked and balanced by its breadth and complexity. Like the nose, sweet notes are most apparent, those of salted caramel, marzipan, coconut milk and sabayon. The herbs, too, are present: rosemary, Jasmine tea and the leafiness of an Oloroso sherry. Pops of nectarine and lemon cordial round out the proceedings.
Finish: Clean and consistent, Rainier cherry, amaretto, peaches and cream, and a touch of salt.
With a few drops of spring water
The nose grows fruitier and nuttier, like charoset, but with additional notes of cooked raspberry and fennel pollen; while the palate grows even sweeter and woodsier, tasting of nougat, pine needle tea, and blonde shag tobacco.
BATCH 018
A blend of Straight Bourbon Whiskeys
Distilled and aged in Tennessee and Kentucky
Selection of 11, 14, and 15-year-old barrels
Aged in American white oak barrels
Crafted and bottled in Kentucky
111.56 proof cask strength bottling
Mash bill: corn, rye, and malted barley
AWARDS:
-
San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2019)
-
Best Small Batch Bourbon 11 Years and Older
-
Double Gold
-
-
Whisky Advocate. rating of 91
FLAVOR NOTES
Barrell Bourbon Batch 018 is a cinnamon bomb of a bourbon. We began with a juicy and tropical 11-year-old blend and layered in more structured and spice-driven 14 and 15-year-old barrels to give this batch a serious amount of character and bite.
A blend of straight bourbons with all the comfort of your favorite Old Fashioned -- sweet and rich with notes of honey, orange and cherry. Coffee and tropical fruit on the palate lead into an earthy finish that invites thoughtful contemplation as the whiskey continues to evolve.
Neat
Appearance: Wildflower honey with brassy highlights.
Nose: Opens rich and fruity, on orange liqueur and maraschino syrup, with underpinnings of cardamom, juniper, and incense. With air, a note of sweet vermouth arrives then evolves into concord grape jam and mint shisha. Slowly, exotic notes of papaya, finger lime, and gooseberry lift above the milieu.
Palate: The flavor of wildflower honey joins the orange liqueur and sweet vermouth from the nose but these sweet flavors are balanced by tangy pomegranate and strawberry. Subtle notes of dark chocolate and kahlua lend it depth.
Finish: Unexpectedly earthy, with cardamom re-appearing alongside almond, cappuccino, and sumac.
With a few drops of spring water
The fruit grows brighter, introducing notes of tangerine zest, mango, passionfruit and coconut, while mineral notes of limestone and tonic water add even more lift.
BATCH 017
A blend of Straight Bourbon Whiskeys
Distilled and aged in Tennessee, Indiana, and Kentucky
Selection of 10-year 4 month, 14, and 15-year-old barrels
Aged in American white oak barrels
Crafted and bottled in Kentucky
112.5 proof cask strength bottling
Mash bill: corn, rye, and malted barley
AWARDS:
-
San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2019)
-
Double Gold
-
-
Whisky Advocate. rating of 90
FLAVOR NOTES
Batch 017 is an homage to a style of bourbon we love, which has become increasingly hard to find. It’s the classic 10-year-old: high proof and balanced, oak driven but complex. This batch is our tribute to the elegant bourbons of the past.
An autumnal nose of mulled cider and cherry pie leads to an unexpectedly complex and tropical palate. Steely minerality lends tension to a whiskey that is at once rich and delicate.
Neat
Appearance: Burnt sienna with bronze highlights.
Nose: An inviting aroma of mulled cider with cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg opens the proceedings. The impression of early-autumn is strengthened by aromas of cherry pie, purple plums, funnel cakes and a mug of chamomile tea with orange blossom honey. With time, delicate notes of honeydew melon, meyer lemon, cuban mint and apple blossom float from the glass.
Palate: Very rich, almost buttery, but balanced by an unexpectedly tropical, juicy side. The opening takes its cue from the nose, exhibiting pound cake and apple jelly, before an cascade of fruits rush in: pineapple, passion fruit, mirabelle plums, gooseberries, lime cordial and guava paste. Flavors of Chartreuse and sweet vermouth lend breadth and the whole is kept in check by little graphite minerality.
Finish: The tropical and herbaceous themes remain but the more delicate floral and mineral notes shine as the whiskey fades, with flavors meadowsweet and tonic water lingering at the end.
With a few drops of spring water
A mezcal-like, steely minerality provides tension while a note of roast duck with cranberry offers yet another layer of flavor. The aroma grows at once creamy with lemon donut and coconut cream, but also jammy with blackberry, lychee and rose jam.
BATCH 016
A blend of Straight Bourbon Whiskeys
Distilled and aged in Tennessee, Indiana, and Kentucky
Selection of 9-year 9 month, 11, and 15-year-old barrels
Aged in American white oak barrels
Crafted and bottled in Kentucky
105.8 proof cask strength bottling
Mash bill: corn, rye, and malted barley
AWARDS:
-
San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2018)
-
Gold
-
-
Whisky Advocate. rating of 89
FLAVOR NOTES
Bourbon Batch 016 is a blend of barrels set aside over the past year for a distinct toasted orange note. The ages range from 9 year 9 months to 15-years-old. Deeply concentrated but not too oaky, this bourbon is unique due to the barrels being selected for similar qualities despite being different ages and coming from different distilleries.
Early-morning bakery aromas lead into a sweet and oily palate of peach, milk chocolate and Italian roast coffee. Dark fruits develop in the finish along with a mineral note that’s been constant throughout.
Neat
Appearance: Polished copper with edges fracturing into a spectrum ranging from marigold to pollen.
Nose: Sweet on the nose and exhibiting a well-integrated depth of oak. The aroma is packed with cherry clafoutis, kouign-amann, pecan pie, and cinnamon roll. This is balanced by oaky spice (nutmeg, marshmallow root, cocoa powder) and oak-derived notes that only come from slow maturation (moss, candied praline, unlit cigar, sandalwood). Fruity notes of rubbed orange and lime peel, umeboshi, dried apricot, fresh peach tantalize along with ever present intriguing mineral notes of flint, slate, and iron.
Palate: The texture is sweet and oily, deeply flavorful without any woody bitterness. Coconut oil and honeycomb provide a rich backdrop for bright notes of peach, milk chocolate, Italian roast coffee and barrel char.
Finish: Blackberry and elderberry come to the fore as the mineral notes of graphite, slate, iron, copper, salt broaden. All this is overlaid atop molasses.
With a few drops of spring water
The oak is pushed into the background revealing the character of the spirit beneath. Aromas of vanilla buttercream, brioche, piña colada, and honeysuckle appear. The palate grows quite syrupy and develops some of the pastry shop character of the nose while the finish evolves with gingerbread, cardamom, and wintergreen.
BATCH 015
A blend of Straight Bourbon Whiskeys
Distilled and aged in Tennessee and Indiana
Crafted and bottled in Kentucky
107.6 proof cask strength bottling
Selection of 9.5, 10, and 11-year-old barrels
Mash bill: corn, rye, and malted barley
AWARDS:
-
San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2018)
-
Gold
-
-
Ultimate Spirits Challenge (2018)
-
90 Points
-
-
Whisky Advocate. rating of 90
FLAVOR NOTES
We selected 9.5, 10 and 11-year-old barrels from different distilleries and rickhouse locations. The barrels were carefully blended, resulting in a sophisticated, balanced bourbon loaded with apple, gingerbread and honeyed corn notes.
Creamy exotic filberts, trails of tart Granny Smith apple skin, lush saddle leather and minute bursts of campfire charred gingerbread abound in each sip. Light swirls of the wrist offer touches of nutmeg and cardamom.
Neat
Appearance: Mahogany veneer leading to motes of shimmering gold leaf melting deeply into the center of the tasting glass. Glistening and clear at the edges, natural fats and oils trail slowly down the glass, each swirl of the glass offers lush prisms of hand polished copper.
Nose: Forest floor of crushed leaves melds into a flaky, lard-spun pie crust laid over homemade mincemeat. Bacon fat and dark brown sugar toasted nuts come into the forefront, along with licks of slow cooked bone broth woven with tangles of sweet and toasty wood smoke.
Palate: Vast slabs of gingerbread toasted over a cast iron pan until just charred, scattered with oven roasted currants and pools of dark Jamaican Rum cream. Each sip of the 107.6 proof heat is beguiling as it rolls over the tongue.
Finish: Split, buttered and griddled diner-style corn muffins slowly give way to richer notes of creamed corn with an undercurrent of cedar shavings. Fire burnished marshmallow crusts are redolent of Café du Monde Beignets sifted with powdered sugar.
With a few drops of spring water
Softly whipped cream spooned over hot, cast iron crisped gingerbread drenched with a zephyr of slowly caramelized shallot and apple butter. Puffs of charred oak smoke offer further mystery and intrigue.
BATCH 014
A blend of Straight Bourbon Whiskeys
Distilled and aged in Tennessee and Kentucky
Crafted and bottled in Kentucky
Selection of 9 and 14-year-old barrels
Aged in American white oak barrels
109.4 proof cask strength bottling
Mash bill: corn, rye, malted barley
AWARDS:
-
San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2018)
-
Gold
-
-
Ultimate Spirits Challenge (2018)
-
93 Points
-
FLAVOR NOTES
We reserved a portion of Barrell Bourbon Batch 012 in the original barrels, which became the foundation for Barrell Bourbon Batch 014. We then selected additional 9-year-old bourbon barrels for their fruit notes, as well as a number of 14-year-old high rye barrels to deliver a bit of spice and oak. The result is complex and thoughtful - a nicely balanced spicy bourbon.
A vivid honey, raisin and fall fruit flavor with an underlying bed of baking spices is the first impression. Those flavors are quickly followed by a creamy texture with a citrus curd. The finish is long with an elusive combination of almond paste and black pepper.
Neat
Appearance: Rose gold with a light copper center.
Nose: An impatient sniff off the freshly opened bottle is rewarded with an incredibly vivid aroma of honey. A delicate balance of spirit-driven dried fruit, including fig, cranberry, apple, and raisin, and oak-driven baking spices of cinnamon and chai tea. This is underpinned by deeper, grain-driven notes of whole wheat sourdough. With time the nose grows sweeter and creamier, with notes of, lime curd, milk chocolate, and amaretto. The fruit grows brighter, evolving into apricot and passion fruit with a touch of green peppercorn.
Palate: The mouth feel is sweet and rounded like a fine calvados but the flavors are lively, almost effervescent. Opens on honey, apricot, white tea, and marigold, with delicately bitter notes of tulsi. This is balanced with soft, crushed almond, maple syrup, and oyster mushroom. Patience is rewarded with warm almond croissant, macadamia nut, nutmeg, and a burst of passion fruit.
Finish: Brings candied cherry, cinnamon, and angostura bitters, like the last sip of a beautifully balanced Manhattan.
With a few drops of spring water
The floral aromas develop further complexity of jasmine flowers, and the fruit jumps out on the palate, introducing muscat grape, trending toward lychee. A strong tobacco note emerges in the finish, making the mouth water for another sip.
BATCH 012
A blend of Straight Bourbon Whiskeys
Distilled and aged for 9 years in Tennessee
Crafted and bottled in Kentucky
108.5 proof cask strength bottling
Aged for 9 years in American white oak barrels
Mash bill: 70% corn, 25% rye, 5% malted barley
FLAVOR NOTES
Batch 012 is a high rye bourbon comprised of 9-year-old barrels and selected older bourbon stocks, most of which were aged in the lower sections of the rick house. This gentler aging style makes Batch 012 a fruit-forward bourbon that shows its spice in the mid-palate, and its drawn out complexity in a long, layered finish.
Sumptuous and lush, Batch 12 fills the mouth with late summer fruit jam and dollops of fresh whipped cream on hot brioche bread pudding. The multi-minute finish is rich with chocolate and heady rye notes.
Neat
Appearance: Deep amber at the core melting to rose gold and brightly polished copper, rimmed by clear edges marbled with wildflower honey.
Nose: Elaborate and indulgent nose of rich orange curd, strawberry, and bursts of sea foam, with licks of pumpkin pie and wet Spanish saddle leather.
Palate: Creamy textures abound with luxurious dabs of fresh whipped cream spooned over long simmered hot chocolate. English summer ale at the top of the tongue gives rise to mid-range notes of crushed Oreo cookie leading into the 108.5 proof finish.
Finish: Minced cigar and pipe tobacco meld with slow cooked summer peach pie. Hints of sea smoke, crushed salt-slicked rocks and pork cracklings round out the finish.
With a few drops of spring water
Softer still than without, velvety with notes of sweet butter melted over charred corn on the cob.
Tasting Notes by Warren Bobrow, The Cocktail Whisperer
BATCH 013
A blend of Straight Bourbon Whiskeys
Distilled and aged in Tennessee and Indiana
Crafted and bottled in Kentucky
Selection of 5 and 8-year-old barrels
Aged in American white oak barrels
113 proof cask strength bottling
Mash bill: corn, rye (high and low), malted barley
AWARDS:
-
San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2017)
-
Gold
-
-
Ultimate Spirits Challenge (2018)
-
Finalist
-
95 Points
-
FLAVOR NOTES
Batch 013 is the combination of a 5-year-old Indiana bourbon and 5 and 8-year-old high rye Tennessee bourbons. The 5 year-old barrels were chosen for their brilliant corn-forward flavor and the 8 year old to provide structure and depth.
Thick slabs of smoked bacon, tiny curls of cedar wood shavings, bitter chocolate pastilles and Georgia peach preserves wash over the palate in rapid succession. Subtle notes of open fire cooked corn bread dusted in zesty chili powder give way to crumbles of dehydrated oranges. Hints of salty crushed minerals and rich lemon curd round out this bourbon.
Neat
Appearance: Shimmering mahogany at the core encompassed by layers of polished gold leaf.
Nose: Roasted almond, white tobacco flowers and cracklings flow into droplets of brown butter, new saddle leather and citrus zest.
Palate: Cavendish pipe tobacco, spicy corn bread with raw honey cream, thick lemon curd and dry straw.
Finish: Tangy wood smoke, raw honey syrup and blood orange.
With a few drops of spring water
This exquisite liquescent has the texture of Italian roast coffee with silky foamed milk. Further sips reveal the flavor of steamed corn on the cob dripping with melting butter that dissolves into lemon zest and leather.
BATCH 011
Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Distilled and aged in Tennessee
Crafted and bottled in Kentucky
114.8 proof cask strength bottling
Aged for 6 years in American white oak barrels
Mash bill: 70% corn, 25% rye, 5% malted barley
AWARDS:
-
San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2017)
-
Best Bourbon
-
Best Small Batch Bourbon
-
Double Gold
-
-
Ultimate Spirits Challenge (2017)
-
Finalist
-
96 Points
-
-
Whisky Advocate rating of 91
FLAVOR NOTES
Barrell Bourbon Batch 011 is the culmination of a 2 year long barrel sorting project focused on highlighting a particularly rare and bright flavor note found in only select barrels of Bourbon. The base of this blend is 6-year-old barrels but it contains older barrels as well.
Raw honey drenched Bing cherries atop toasted sweet corn pudding. Hearty Russian Rye toast soldiers sprinkled with sea salt slathered in maple butter and summer fruit compote. The rich and flavorful grains plunge into soft creaminess and recollects state fair caramel popcorn in the finish, belying the 114.8 proof heat.
Neat
Appearance: Clear edges with gossamer legs meld into a golden honey with a veneer of rose gold and terra cotta.
Nose: Piping hot cornmeal Hush Puppies liberally sprinkled with confectioners’ sugar. Notes of Cavendish tobacco and bourbon barrels give way to a lush cherry preserves aroma.
Palate: A sharp burst of corn soufflé dissipates into honey graham cracker crusted pecan pie tartlets. The 114.8 proof provides for a multi-minute finish of hot stone fruit crumble.
Finish: Hot puff pastry filled with stovetop griddled bacon and a touch of dry Burgundy mustard.
With a few drops of spring water
The water softens and lengthens the flavors found in this bourbon, delivering a deeply rich and satisfying sip.
Tasting Notes by Warren Bobrow, The Cocktail Whisperer
BATCH 008B
Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Distilled in Tennessee
Aged in Tennessee and Kentucky
Crafted and bottled in Kentucky
128.3 proof cask strength bottling
Aged for 10 years in American white oak barrels
Mash bill: 70% corn, 25% rye, 5% malted barley
FLAVOR NOTES
Dense and rich on the tongue with bursts of warm brioche slathered in salted caramel, the heat from the 128.3 proof whirs around the mouth. Batch 008B brings to mind the savory sweetness of candied spiced pecans and tang of bittersweet chocolate powder. Further sips encourage the mesmerizing multi-minute finish.
Neat
Appearance: Dark amber with a deep mahogany core and narrow edges of golden sunlight. Turns of the wrist create tantalizing combinations of molten copper.
Nose: Caramelized Granny Smith apple pie with orange zest and Madagascar vanilla paste. Tangy Yuzu, aged saddle leather, and warm dark chocolate ganache.
Palate: Velvety across the palate with salvos of grey Brittany sea salt. Hot sweet summer corn creamed pudding with butter and honey tumbles around the mouth.
Finish: Sweet tobacco smoke lightly brushed with buckwheat honey gives way to salty condensed milk before yielding to butterscotch candy and the generous multi-minute conclusion.
With a few drops of spring water
Hot fried corn cakes made with coarse ground summer corn meal with heaps of fresh churned butter and cranberry-rhubarb compote. Each sip brings an appreciation of the marriage of corn and rye, with sweet and spicy intertwining to generate something unique and highly estimable.
Tasting Notes by Warren Bobrow, The Cocktail Whisperer
BATCH 009
Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Distilled in Tennessee
Aged in Tennessee and Kentucky
Crafted and bottled in Kentucky
112.10 proof cask strength bottling
Aged for 13 years in American white oak barrels
Mash bill: 70% corn, 18% rye, 7% malted barley
AWARDS:
-
Ultimate Spirits Challenge (2017)
-
95 Points
-
-
Whisky Advocate rating of 90
FLAVOR NOTES
Batch 009 is simultaneously our oldest and also lowest proof bourbon. As a result, tropical fruit notes resonate amidst the mellow warmth. For those in search of full barrel proof flavors without high rick house heat, this is the bourbon for you.
Caramelized plantains in the nose carry molasses and palate drying quince marmalade. Further sips bring surprisingly tropical fruit flavors of toasted coconut and dried mango mingling with luscious marshmallow s’mores, almond butter, and saddle leather. Deep crimson Ranier cherries pervade. The charred grapefruit and warm panela finish make each sip of 009 a vacation.
Neat
Appearance: Broiled apricot orange at the core and resplendent warm gold at the edges. Sunlight reflecting off of burnished copper flashes across the surface leaving iridescent streaks with each swirl.
Nose: Slowly roasted exotic fruits like kiwi, coconut, and Satsuma orange swirled with smoked bergamot tea. Herbed brown butter dripping over toasted brioche and northwest cherry.
Palate: Lively and amusing across the palate, the mellow warmth makes this bourbon easy to enjoy. Future sips touch all parts of the palate with broad strokes of thick clotted cream. The glow of the 112.10 proof lurks just out of sight, a welcome but not distracting figure.
Finish: Oven dried stone fruit jam with a hint of citrus oils leads to Caribbean spices. The multi-minute finish is reminiscent of sweet buttered carnival corn.
With a few drops of spring water
Bright sarsaparilla gives way to gooey apricot bread pudding fresh from the oven topped with rum soaked raisins. Each taste leaves almond oil sticking to the back of your tongue. The cool water spreads nuance and sophistication throughout each pleasurable sip.
Tasting Notes by Warren Bobrow, The Cocktail Whisperer
BATCH 010
Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Distilled in Indiana
Aged in Michigan
Crafted and bottled in Kentucky
122.0 proof cask strength bottling
Aged for 8 years in American white oak barrels
Mash bill: 75% corn, 21% rye, 4% malted barley
AWARDS:
-
Ultimate Spirits Challenge (2017)
-
95 Points
-
-
Whisky Advocate rating of 90
FLAVOR NOTES
Batch 010 is a revelation. Bursts of slowly roasted fruits enrobed in dark cocoa and touched with wood smoke abound. Swirls of wildflower honey and crushed walnuts come and go with every single sip rewarding attention and focus. Grits topped with long-simmering stew with undercurrents of saline, quince, and Meyer lemon.
Neat
Appearance: Rose gold in late summer sunlight with edges of peak fall foliage seen through the clear, crisp waters of a mountain stream. Spins of the wrist reveal tints of golden honey and sunlight exploding through birch trees in early October.
Nose: Crème Brule and grilled grapefruit cascade in the forefront. Toasty grain, vanilla simple syrup, and sun-bleached hay with licks of wet cedar and toasted pine nuts shimmer across the olfactory senses.
Palate: Dark chocolate covered citrus fruits and fruit leather open up into cedar shavings and bursts of wood smoke across the tongue. Deeper elements reveal themselves in the decadent, five-minute ending.
Finish: Late harvest peaches thickly sliced and roasted across sweet butter drenched cinnamon raisin bread gives way to saddle leather and crushed salt that tingle and delight down the throat for the multi-minute finish.
With a few drops of spring water
Toasted nuts and cream anglaise atop brown bread pudding call out to the attentive supper with just a few drops of cool water. Red birch beer evolves into honeycomb and toasted cedar. The water also evokes elegant notes of late summer fruits, adding to the mystery of every sip.
Tasting Notes by Warren Bobrow, The Cocktail Whisperer
BATCH 007
Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Distilled and aged in Tennessee
122.4 proof cask strength bottling
Aged for 5 years in Char #4 American white oak barrels