- BrandElijah Craig
- CountryUSA
- RegionKentucky
- TypeBourbon
- Size750ml
- Production Cask Strength
- SKU 210000026371
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof 11yr5mo Batch B523
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof releases have maintained a high level of consistency over the years and it has only been in the last few batches that that quality has been beginning to slip. Loosening the brand’s age statement requirement in theory should allow Heaven Hill’s blenders more creative freedom. That will be certainly welcomed as the brand has tasted more and more similar from batch to batch. Batch B523 definitely shows how loosening its age statement can benefit from this. Coming in around 7 months younger isn’t a major age difference, but the bourbon forgoes some of its overall heaviness to become a brighter and livelier sip this time out.
The brand’s typical heavy and rich caramel forward nose is changed into a warmer and inviting one. Heavy cinnamon is replaced by a more complex stewed apple scent that is followed by more typical scents of nutmeg, vanilla, and oak. The palate is where the bourbon really begins to shine with golden raisins, honey graham crackers, and sweet bread pastry providing a strong three-pronged flavor approach that's not typical of the brand. The finish turns spicy with dry rye spice, black pepper, and barrel char providing the expected contrast.