The Story
I first spoke with Barrell Bourbon Founder Joe Beatrice several years ago. When I emailed him with a question about one of his bottle labels he called me right back to explain and went on to tell me about his company. Founded on the belief that blending exceptional casks can lead to wonderfully unique whiskey Joe launched Barrell Craft Spirits in 2013 based in Louisville, KY. Combined with the talents of Master Distiller and Blender Tripp Stimson they’ve released dozens of bourbons, whiskeys, and even rum along a batch methodology. This means if you find a bottle you love be sure to pick up a couple of extras. (I’m down to my last bottle of Batch 11, my delicious peanut butter bomb!) Barrell relentlessly continues to release award-winning spirits including Barrell Bourbon Batch 21 which took home ‘Best Bourbon’, among other awards, at the 2020 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
The Details
Name: Barrell Bourbon Batch # 23
Distiller: N/A (Tennessee, Kentucky, and Indiana)
Bottler: Barrell Craft Spirits
Type of Producer: Non-Distiller Producer
Year Established: 2013
Bottling Proof: 107.78
Age: 10 years (Blend of 10, 12, and 15-year-old barrels)
Mashbill: corn, rye, and malted barley
Style: A blend of straight Bourbon Whiskeys
Release Date: March 2020
Release Type: Limited
Availability: Select markets and online here
MSRP: $89.99 (750ml)
Tasted: Barrell Bourbon Batch 23
Nose
White pepper
Fresh berries
Cinnamon and sugar
Light and perfect for springtime
Palate
The palate is a departure from the nose in that it’s spicy and hot!
Spicy rye heat on the tongue
Bolder than the nose intimated
Earthy notes
Heavy and mouthwatering on the sides of the tongue
Mouthfeel
HOT and chewy
Finish
Lingering spice fades into more of a dull cinnamon/sugar sweetness
Final Impressions
Adding a bit of water really tames the heat and brings forward cinnamon notes. This brings the palate more in line with the airiness of the nose. It’s like two different bourbons when enjoying cask strength vs with water. This bourbon I would drink with a splash of water or even maybe a single cube.
