Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Batch 8 did not disappoint. This bourbon is a powerhouse, clocking in at a whopping 139.8 proof, but it manages to maintain a smoothness that is surprising for a barrel proof whiskey.

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Batch 8 Overview

This quarterly release from Heaven Hill Distillery is known for its high-proof and rich flavor profile. Here’s what I found during my tasting experience:

Product History

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof has been around since 2013 and has gained a loyal following over the years. Each batch is bottled at barrel proof, meaning it is not diluted with water before bottling. This allows the true flavors of the bourbon to shine through and gives it a bold, intense flavor profile.

Batch 8 was released in 2015 and is one of the earlier batches of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof. It was aged for 12 years and bottled at a whopping 139.8 proof. This makes it one of the stronger batches of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof, but also one of the most flavorful.

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Price Range

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Batch 8 originally retailed for around $50, but it can be difficult to find on shelves today. If you do come across a bottle, you can expect to pay a premium for it due to its rarity and high demand.

Tasting Notes

Aroma

The aroma of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Batch 8 is intense and complex. The nose is greeted with a rich and full-bodied scent of caramel, vanilla, and oak. The aroma is also accompanied by a subtle hint of toasted marshmallow and honey, which adds a nice touch to the overall experience.

Flavor

The flavor of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Batch 8 is bold and powerful. The palate is immediately hit with a rush of flavors that are both forceful and potent. The taste of the bourbon is dominated by notes of charred caramel, dried fruit, rye spice, and cinnamon. The flavor is also accompanied by a slight tannic oak and leather taste, which adds depth to the overall experience.

Finish

The finish of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Batch 8 is long and satisfying. The aftertaste is a combination of toasted earthy flavors, which display the age of the bourbon. The finish is also accompanied by a subtle hint of vanilla-dipped oak and light barrel char, which adds a nice touch to the overall experience.

Rating

Overall, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Batch 8 is a fantastic bourbon that is well worth the price. The flavor is bold and powerful, and the finish is long and satisfying. I would rate Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Batch 8 a solid 9 out of 10.

Mixing and Pairing

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Best Mixers

When it comes to mixing Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Batch 8, I prefer to keep it simple with a few drops of water. This helps to open up the flavors and aromas in the whiskey. However, if you prefer a little more sweetness, you can add a splash of ginger ale or cola. Just be careful not to overpower the whiskey with too much mixer.

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Cocktail Suggestions

If you’re looking to mix Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Batch 8 into a cocktail, I recommend trying it in an Old Fashioned. The rich, bold flavors of the whiskey pair perfectly with the sweetness of the sugar and the bitterness of the bitters. Simply muddle a sugar cube with a few dashes of bitters, add a splash of water, and then pour in the whiskey. Stir well and add a twist of orange peel for a delicious and classic cocktail.

Another great cocktail option is a Whiskey Sour. The tartness of the lemon juice and the sweetness of the simple syrup balance out the bold flavors of the whiskey. Simply mix 2 ounces of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Batch 8 with ¾ ounce of fresh lemon juice and ½ ounce of simple syrup. Shake well with ice and strain into a glass.

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Food Pairings

When it comes to pairing Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Batch 8 with food, I recommend going for bold and rich flavors. This whiskey pairs well with grilled meats, especially steak or lamb. The richness of the whiskey complements the charred flavors of the meat perfectly.

For a vegetarian option, try pairing Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Batch 8 with a rich and creamy mushroom risotto. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms and the creaminess of the risotto pair well with the bold flavors of the whiskey.

Conclusion

I was impressed with Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Batch 8 and would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a bold, flavorful bourbon. It’s not for the faint of heart, but if you’re up for a little adventure, this is a great choice.

Related Posts

As a bourbon enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for new and unique whiskey experiences. If you enjoyed my review of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Batch 8, you might be interested in checking out these related posts:

• Blanton’s Black Review: Unveiling a Bourbon Treasure: If you’re a fan of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof, you might appreciate this review of Blanton’s Black Label, a Japanese exclusive variation of the well-known Blanton’s.
• Reviewing Glen Scotia 25 years old: If you’re interested in trying other aged whiskies, this review of Glen Scotia 25 years old might be of interest to you.
• Dewar’s 25 on the tasting table!: If you enjoyed the rich and inviting classic bourbon aroma of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Batch 8, you might appreciate this review of Dewar’s 25-year-old whisky.
• Dream Dram: Glen Moray Mastery on the tasting table!: If you’re interested in exploring the work of master distillers, you might appreciate this review of Glen Moray Mastery, which features five different vintages of Glen Moray.
• Rock Hill Farms Bourbon Review: Your Guide to Tasting Perfection: If you’re looking for another premium bourbon to try, you might appreciate this review of Rock Hill Farms Single Barrel Bourbon.