Elijah Craig Barrel Proof
“Talent is a flame. Genius is a fire.”
The Barrel Proof version of Elijah Craig is released 3 times a year since 2013. For the whiskey geeks out there (it takes one to know one) each release has a batch number on the bottle label. For this review ours is from 2014 and the batch is C914 (C being the 3rd release of the year, 9 being the ninth month, September and 14 for the year 2014). The proof values also change with each release, this one happens to be the highest proof ever released to date at a whopping 140.2.
The thought process behind this particular Barrel Proof small batch (and no doubt many other barrel proof bourbons) is to indulge yourself. Step into the shoes of a master distiller and experience the whiskey in its purest uncut form, without chill filtering and straight from the barrel. Sounds good right? But does it live up to those expectations?
Yes, yes it does! This is quite simply a stunning example of Barrel Proof bourbon. It is a powerhouse of aromas with maple syrup, caramel, mint, and toffee apple being just a few competing for your attention. Considering the ABV is over 70% the nose is so inviting and the proof is very well disguised. The palate doesn’t let you down either. It is very, very, warm and dry, with a multitude of rich flavours. Absolutely tons of dark caramel chocolate with coffee beans and butterscotch. Tasting notes are easy when the descriptors jump out at you with such force the moment it hits your glass.
If like us, you read reviews to pick up on recommendations from other whiskey fanatics, then the Gents implore you to seek out this bourbon immediately. Without any doubt it goes straight into the top bracket of review scores on our site, and should be placed near the very top of everyone’s wish list. You can’t take it with you, so you might as well spend the cash that you have now. You can thank the Gents later. Enjoy!
