Olivia Taylor
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon Batch A123
Nose
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon Batch A123 offers a delightful nose of rich caramel, sweet charred oak, cherrywood, vanilla, fudge, and a mix of light mint & pine. The intensity of these scents combine to create a sensory experience that sets the stage for a unique sip.
Palate
The palate intensifies the caramel notes while simultaneously featuring a tannic charred oak note. Not far behind is a subtle blackberry and plum addition that adds a touch of complexity and sweetness. Vanilla smoothens the sip and gives it a heightened smoothness.
Finish
The finish of this Barrel Proof bourbon isn’t shy when it comes to the intensity. Chili spice, cinnamon, tannic oak, and nutmeg all play their part in crafting a fiery afterthought. The finale is completed with an astringent leather note that lingers long after the sip is gone.
Uniqueness
Rough around the edges, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon Batch A123 is unique in its assertive tannic side. It’s dark fruit and fiery spice that balance out the tannins making it that much more flavorful.
Value
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon Batch A123 maintains Heaven Hill’s level of quality. However, its tannic note does not reach the same effectiveness of recent barrel proof bourbons released to the market.
Overall
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon Batch A123 is a unique sip that kicks off the 11th year for the brand and its 31st batch. This whiskey offers a delightful nose, a balanced palate, a complex finish, and a tannic edge that is unique to this batch. Though it struggles to compete with the marketplace, this barrel proof bourbon maintains a level of quality that craft whiskey enthusiasts will appreciate.
Classification: Straight Bourbon
Company: Elijah Craig Distillery Co. (Heaven Hill)
Distillery: Elijah Craig Distillery Co. (Heaven Hill)
Release Date: January 2023
Proof: 125.6
Age: 12 Years
Mashbill: 78% Corn, 12% Malted Barley, 10% Rye
Color: Dark Bronze
MSRP: $70 (2022)
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon Batch A123 is a flavorful and unique bourbon that offers a blend of sweet and spicy notes. Its fiery finish and bold tannic edge make it stand out from other barrel proof bourbons on the market. While it may not be as strong as other recent releases, it still maintains the high quality we expect from Heaven Hill. Overall, a solid choice for whiskey lovers looking to try something new.
“Overall, I would say that Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon Batch A123 is a complex and satisfying sip that packs a punch. The mix of sweet and spicy notes in both the nose and palate make for a well-rounded experience, while the unique tannic edge adds a touch of distinctiveness. While it may not compete with some of the newer barrel proof bourbons on the market, it still maintains the high quality that Heaven Hill is known for. A great choice for those who appreciate a bold and flavorful whiskey.”
This is a comprehensive and honest review of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon Batch A123. The writer gives a detailed description of the aromas, flavors, and finish, and also comments on the uniqueness and value of the bourbon. This comment is helpful for those looking to try this specific batch and helps them understand what to expect from the experience.