I tried Elijah Craig 11-Year Barrel Pick, and I have to say, it did not disappoint. This particular bourbon is a single barrel release, meaning that each barrel will have its own unique flavor profile. Elijah Craig 11-Year Barrel Pick is a great choice for anyone who is looking for a good-quality bourbon whiskey that is full of flavor and character.

Elijah Craig 11-Year Barrel Pick Overview

Product History

Elijah Craig is a well-known name in the world of Bourbon lovers. The brand is named after a Baptist preacher who is credited with discovering the process of aging whiskey in charred oak barrels. Elijah Craig 11-Year Barrel Pick is a single barrel bourbon whiskey that is bottled at barrel proof.

This whiskey is made using a mash bill of 78% corn, 12% malted barley, and 10% rye. It is aged for a minimum of 11 years in charred oak barrels, which gives it a rich and complex flavor profile. The whiskey has notes of honey, caramel, vanilla, licorice, mint, cinnamon, and oak.

Price Range

The Elijah Craig 11-Year Barrel Pick is a premium whiskey that is priced at around $30–80 per 750ml bottle. This price point puts it in the same range as other high-end bourbons like Blanton’s and Booker’s.

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Tasting Notes

Aroma

The aroma of Elijah Craig 11-Year Barrel Pick is rich and complex. Upon opening the bottle, I was hit with notes of brown sugar, caramel, oak, and bitter chocolate. As I continued to smell, I picked up hints of anise, licorice, vanilla, cinnamon, musty corn, and ripe peach. The aroma was mesmerizing, and it only got better as the whiskey breathed.

Flavor

The flavor of Elijah Craig 11-Year Barrel Pick is bold and intense. On the palate, I tasted a strong presence of oak and vanilla, followed by notes of caramel, toffee, and dark chocolate. The whiskey had a slight spiciness to it, with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. The flavor was well-balanced, with the sweetness of the caramel and vanilla balancing out the bitterness of the dark chocolate and oak.

Finish

The finish of Elijah Craig 11-Year Barrel Pick is long and warm. As I swallowed, I felt a pleasant burn that lingered on my tongue and throat. The finish had a slight sweetness to it, with notes of caramel and vanilla coming through once again. The oak and dark chocolate flavors also made a reappearance, providing a nice balance to the sweetness.

Rating

Overall, I would rate Elijah Craig 11-Year Barrel Pick as an excellent whiskey. The aroma, flavor, and finish are all top-notch, and the whiskey is well-balanced and complex. I would highly recommend this whiskey to anyone who enjoys a bold, intense bourbon with a lot of character. On a scale of 1 to 10, I would give Elijah Craig 11-Year Barrel Pick a solid 8.

Mixing and Pairing

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Best Mixers

When it comes to mixing Elijah Craig 11-Year Barrel Pick, I prefer to keep it simple. This bourbon has a rich and complex flavor profile that can easily be overpowered by too many mixers. However, a splash of water or a single ice cube can help to open up the flavors and aromas of this bourbon.

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Cocktail Suggestions

If you’re looking to create a cocktail with Elijah Craig 11-Year Barrel Pick, I recommend trying a classic Old Fashioned. This cocktail is simple to make and allows the flavors of the bourbon to shine through. To make an Old Fashioned, muddle a sugar cube with a few dashes of bitters, add a splash of water, and then pour in 2 ounces of Elijah Craig 11-Year Barrel Pick. Stir well, and garnish with an orange twist.

Another great cocktail to try with this bourbon is a Manhattan. To make a Manhattan, stir together 2 ounces of Elijah Craig 11-Year Barrel Pick, 1 ounce of sweet vermouth, and a dash of bitters. Strain into a chilled glass, and garnish with a cherry.

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Food Pairings

When it comes to food pairings, Elijah Craig 11-Year Barrel Pick pairs well with rich and savory dishes. Try pairing this bourbon with a juicy steak or a hearty beef stew. The bold flavors of the bourbon complement the rich flavors of the meat, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.

For a lighter pairing, try pairing Elijah Craig 11-Year Barrel Pick with dark chocolate. The sweetness of the chocolate pairs well with the rich and complex flavors of the bourbon, creating a decadent dessert that is sure to impress.

Conclusion

After trying the Elijah Craig 11-Year Barrel Pick, I can say that it is a solid bourbon with a complex flavor profile. I would recommend the Elijah Craig 11-Year Barrel Pick to bourbon lovers who enjoy a complex and flavorful whiskey. While it may not be the most unique or memorable bourbon out there, it is certainly a solid choice for those looking for a well-crafted and enjoyable drink.

Related Posts

If you enjoyed my review of Elijah Craig 11-Year Barrel Pick, you might also like to check out some of my other whiskey reviews. Here are some of my top picks:

• Reviewing the brand new Slane Irish Whiskey: Slane Irish Whiskey is a relatively new addition to the market, but it’s already making waves with its smooth, easy-drinking flavor. If you’re a fan of Irish whiskey, you won’t want to miss this one.
• A closer look at the new Highland Park Valkyrie: Highland Park is one of my favorite distilleries, and their Valkyrie expression is a real standout. With its rich, smoky flavor and hints of heather and honey, it’s a must-try for any whiskey lover.
• Great Value Drams: Knappogue Castle 12 years old: If you’re looking for a great value whiskey that won’t break the bank, Knappogue Castle 12 years old is a fantastic choice. With its smooth, fruity flavor and subtle hints of vanilla and oak, it’s a real crowd-pleaser.
• Reviewing Knappogue Castle 16 Twin Wood: For a slightly more complex whiskey experience, be sure to check out Knappogue Castle 16 Twin Wood. With its double maturation in both bourbon and sherry casks, it offers a rich, layered flavor that’s sure to impress.
• A closer look at Mackmyra Ten Years: Finally, if you’re in the mood for something truly unique, Mackmyra Ten Years is a great choice. Made by Sweden’s most famous distillery, it offers a one-of-a-kind flavor profile that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.