Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon | Review of Batch A123

Distillery: Heaven Hill

Proof: 125.6 (Nice!)

Mash bill: 78% Corn, 12% Malted Barley, 10% Rye

Age: 12 years old

MSRP: $75

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Fool Proof Rating and Summary of Tasting Notes

Color: Deep Amber

Nose: Heavy caramel, brown sugar, and vanilla, Syrupy Toffee, nutmeg, Oak

Palate: Caramel, Dark fruit, Vanilla, Dark Chocolate, Cherries

Finish: Long finish with Rye spice, some earthiness, and lots of oak

Feel: Fantastic, chewy mouthfeel with great viscosity viscosity

See below for an in-depth review

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For all my tastings I use either the Libbey Signature Kentucky Bourbon Trail Whiskey Glass or a traditional Glencairn glass. They both are great for nosing and help in discerning more subtle notes.

In-Depth Review of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof A123

I have tasted my fair share of different brands and labels, but Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon from Heaven Hill holds a special place in my heart. This bold and flavorful bourbon is a staple in my liquor cabinet and is always a crowd-pleaser when I share it with friends.

What sets Elijah Craig Barrel Proof apart is its unique way of releasing three different batches each year, labeled A (January), B (May), and C (September). I currently have the pleasure of sipping on my bottle of Batch A123, released in January of 2023. The depth and complexity of the flavors truly showcase the craftsmanship that goes into every batch of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon.

As a barrel proof, bourbon enthusiast, I appreciate seeing an age statement on each release, and this particular bourbon carries a 12-year age statement. This bourbon is uncut straight from the barrel with non-chill filtering, making it a truly raw and authentic experience. It is bourbon in its purest form.

Having tried most of the releases, I can attest that I have never had a bottle I didn't enjoy. However, this latest bottle I purchased had a peculiar tannic and rough around the edges, neck pour (first pour from the bottle). Not one to give up easily, I decided to wait a week and give this bottle of Elijah Craig another chance. Fortunately, the wait paid off, as the flavors became more distinct and well-balanced. Let's take a sip and explore the intricate flavors and nuances of this impressive bourbon.

Nose

The nose on Elijah Craig Barrel Proof is truly enjoyable. It's a complex blend of heavy caramel and rich vanilla, making for a sweet and inviting aroma. However, it doesn't stop there. As you take a deeper whiff, I notice syrupy toffee notes that are complemented by hints of nutmeg and rich oak.

It's a sensory adventure that is hard to describe with words alone. As someone who appreciates good whiskey, I found myself particularly drawn to the nose on Elijah Craig Barrel Proof. It has a unique profile that sets it apart from other bourbons out there. Great nose!

Palate

As a fan of barrel proof bourbon, I have to say that the palate on Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon A123 is truly a treat for the senses. The initial flavor profile bursts with a rich combination of caramel and vanilla bean, which is both potent and balanced.

As it transitions, I can detect a dark fruit essence that reminds me of Maraschino cherries, with a hint of chocolate that underscores the entire taste experience. Overall, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon A123 is a really well-balanced pour with a distinctive flavor that I enjoyed.

Finish

This straight-from-the-barrel, Elijah Craig Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey has a long finish - it lingered on my tongue, leaving behind warm rye spice, some earthiness, and a lot of rich oak. This whiskey doesn't hold back when it comes to showcasing its barrel-proof nature, but it does so in a way that is inviting and not overwhelming.

Feel

Batch number A123 has a fantastically chewy mouth feel with great viscosity.

Overall

As a whiskey enthusiast, I have to say that Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon rarely disappoints. Batch A123, in particular, does not stand out as the best batch I have sampled, although it is certainly up to par with Elijah Craig's usual high standards.

This complex and rich whiskey does not shy away from bold flavors, providing a truly satisfying experience for the seasoned bourbon drinker. From the first sip, it's evident that this is a spirit that requires time and attention to fully appreciate. With its nuanced flavor profile, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon Batch A123 is a testament to the art and science of distillation.

If I would have scored this Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon after the neck pour, I probably would have given it a Fool-Proof rating of 85%. I am glad I waited a week and revisited it before writing this review. I'm giving it a Fool-Proof rating of 90%.

Check out my review of Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel here.

Check out my review of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C923.