Simply once we thought we had a deal with on the numerous completely different batches and particular label releases, Barrell Craft Spirits threw one other curveball at us this fall with a bourbon that, no less than now, is a sequence unto itself. We’ve seen six completely different releases below the Cask End Sequence, however for causes that elude me, this new French Oak End is a separate factor.
Dig deeper than the title, and it begins to make a bit extra sense. At 12 years previous, this is likely one of the older age-stated blends from Barrell and a considerably older product than some other Cask End launch. And since Barrell is thought to mix a variety of ages, likelihood is fairly good there’s some even older bourbon on this bottle. Concerning stated bourbon, Barrell has chosen whiskey distilled within the acquainted trifecta of Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee however added to the combo Wyoming-distilled bourbon, one thing of an outlier supply for the model. I’m undecided I’ve ever even tasted 12-year-old bourbon from Wyoming.
As for the particular ending routine, Barrell is brief on particulars in step with different cask end releases. All we’re advised is that the mix ages for an unspecified period of time in toasted French oak casks. Let’s examine this factor out.
Barrell Bourbon French Oak End 12 Years Outdated Evaluate
This one actually deserves to face by itself as a result of it’s in contrast to any Barrell bourbon I’ve encountered. The nostril instantly speaks to the age, suggesting a contact greater than even the 12 years listed on the label. It’s not as closely spiced as some French oak-finished expressions with loads of heat oak tones providing a pleasant counterbalance to the extra energetic parts. Prime notes of sandalwood and clove give method to well-worn leather-based, damp cellar, and roasted pecans. Because it opens extra, candy pastry dough, white pepper, and Snickerdoodle cookies add to an impressively wealthy and layered aroma.
Regardless of the notion of age on the nostril, it drinks with a bit younger vitality, main with a vivid, gently candy mélange of allspice, Sichuan peppercorn, and darkish caramels. The midpalate delivers extra depth and maturity with oak-driven notes of black tea, Skinny Mint cookies, and bruleed sugar earlier than an extended, silky end of pralines, cherry juice, and peppery oak. I’ve tasted fairly a couple of standout, French oak-aged bourbons this 12 months, and this ranks among the many greatest. Pity there are solely 1500 bottles to go round, however maybe maintaining this one separate from the Cask End Sequence signifies that we’ll see extra of it sooner or later. Fingers crossed.
108.5 proof.
A / $150
Barrell Bourbon French Oak End 12 Years Outdated
USD150
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