Barrell Craft Spirits, a relatively young distillery on the American whiskey scene, has rapidly gained a reputation for producing innovative and high-quality spirits. Founded in 2016, Barrell has distinguished itself by sourcing and blending whiskies from various distilleries across the United States, often experimenting with unique cask finishes and bottling strengths. Their commitment to experimentation and quality has garnered a loyal following among whiskey enthusiasts.

Barrell Bourbon 9.5 Year Age Cask Strength 015 Batch has garnered critical acclaim, winning prestigious awards such as:

• San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2018): Gold Medal
• Ultimate Spirits Challenge (2018): 90 Points
• Whisky Advocate: 90 Points rating

Average Retail price: $120

Tasting Notes for Barrell Bourbon 9.5 Year Batch 015 

Appearance: The Barrell Bourbon 9.5 Year Age Cask Strength 015 Batch pours a deep amber color, with hints of copper and mahogany. The liquid appears thick and viscous, promising a full-bodied experience.

Legs: The whiskey exhibits slow, thick legs that cling to the inside of the glass.

Nose: The initial aroma is a burst of sweet oak, with notes of vanilla and caramel. Underneath, there are subtle hints of spice, including cinnamon and clove. As the whiskey opens up, more complex notes emerge, such as leather, tobacco, and a touch of dark chocolate.

Complexity: The nose is a captivating olfactory experience. A beautiful balance of sweet, spicy, nutty and woody notes. The aromas intertwine seamlessly.

Palate:  First Sip: The first sip is a powerful embrace on the senses. The whiskey is full-bodied and oily, with a rich, almost syrupy texture. The initial flavors are dominated by seasoned oak, gingerbread, a streusel; I taste raisins, apples, cherries, a touch of spice like chili powder. It’s an intense complexity of spice and fruit.

Development: As the whiskey sits on the palate, the flavors evolve and become more nuanced. Notes of dark chocolate, leather, and tobacco emerge, adding depth and dimension to the experience. There is a subtle sweetness that balances the spiciness, creating a harmonious and satisfying profile.

Complexity: The palate is incredibly complex, with a multitude of flavors that dance and interplay with each other. The balance between sweetness, spice, and oak is exceptional, making for a truly enjoyable tasting experience.

Finish: The finish is long and lingering, with flavors of oak, roasted nuts, carmel corn, vanilla, toasted marshmallow, and spice lingering on the palate. There is a pleasant warmth that spreads throughout the mouth, leaving a satisfying aftertaste.

Overall Impression

The Barrell Bourbon 9.5 Year Age Cask Strength 015 Batch is a testament to the art of blending. Its complexity, balance, and rich flavors make it a truly exceptional whiskey. While the high proof may not suit all palates, those who appreciate bold, full-bodied spirits will find this expression immensely rewarding.

Take a look at batch 015, awards, and more here at Barrell Bourbon

Recommendation

If you’re a fan of cask strength bourbon and enjoy exploring complex flavor profiles, I highly recommend giving the Barrell Bourbon 9.5 Year Age Cask Strength 015 Batch a try. It’s a truly exceptional spirit that will leave a lasting impression.

Best of all, it’s surprisingly affordable for a cask strength whiskey, making it a great option for both whiskey enthusiasts and those looking for a unique and memorable gift.

Have you had the opportunity to sample this whiskey? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!