As an avid whiskey enthusiast, I recently came across the Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C919, and I must say, I was quite impressed. This remarkable bourbon is the third and final release of the 2019 Barrel Proof series from the renowned Heaven Hill distillery. With an alcohol content of 68.4%, this 12-year-old bourbon is a bold, uncut, straight-from-the-barrel experience without the process of chill filtering, ensuring that its purest form is preserved for the drinker.

From the moment I poured myself a glass, I was greeted with a rich auburn, almost polished mahogany hue, reflecting its 12 years aging in virgin American white oak barrels. As I brought the glass nearer, the aroma of heavy vanilla, caramel, brown sugar, and oak was incredibly inviting. Swirling it gently in my glass, I couldn’t help but notice the distinct chocolate notes on the nose – a unique combination of white and dark chocolate – accompanied by pungent caramel, vanilla custard, Nutella, and oak, which added a layer of complexity and depth to the fragrance profile.

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Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C919 Overview

Product History

As a fan of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof bourbons, I’m excited to talk about the C919 release. Elijah Craig Barrel Proof is a well-regarded series of cask strength, small batch bourbons from Heaven Hill Distillery, one of the most respected distilleries in Kentucky. The C919 batch is the third release of 2019, following batches A and B. With an ABV of 68.4% and aged for 12 years, this bourbon packs a punch.

Price Range

Finding a good bottle of whiskey at a reasonable price is always a plus, and I can say the Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C919 fits the bill. Its price range is typically around $60-70, offering excellent value for a high-quality barrel proof bourbon.

Tasting Notes

Aroma

Upon nosing the Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C919, I was greeted with a pleasant, yet sharp aroma. Detecting notes of vanilla, caramel, oak, and a hint of maraschino cherries, the nose also presents a surprising presence of white and dark chocolate. Undertones of citrus and floral notes, like violets, add to the complexity of this high-proof bourbon.

Flavor

When I took my first sip of this sample, poured neat, the high proof certainly made its presence known with a surprising heat. Bold flavors of oak, sweet brown sugar, burnt caramel, and rich vanilla danced on my palate. As I let it sit, I started to notice fruitier notes like apples, cherries, and citrus, alongside spices like cinnamon and cloves. It’s worth mentioning that adding a drop of water can help release more flavor and make it a more refined drinking experience.

Finish

The finish of the Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C919 carries a lasting warmth with it, showcasing cinnamon, rich seasoned oak, toffee, and a pinch of leather. Subtle fruitiness lingers in the background, with cherry and prune flavors making a slight appearance, while the spiciness remains in the form of black pepper.

Rating

In my opinion, the Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Batch C919 deserves a rating of 8.8/10. It provides a bold, flavorful experience with a pleasant balance of sweetness, spice, and heat. The high proof adds character, making it a memorable bourbon even among its limited-release competitors like Stagg Jr. Just remember to enjoy it from Glencairn glasses for the optimal tasting adventure!

Mixing and Pairing

Best Mixers

When it comes to Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C919, I’ve found that the best mixers tend to be simple ones, which help tone down its high alcohol content and intense heat on the palate while still complementing the whiskey’s bold flavors. Some of my go-to mixers for this bourbon are:

• Ice: Adding a single large cube or sphere of ice can help mellow the heat and open up the whiskey’s more subtle flavors. Be careful not to add too much ice, as it can dilute the overall taste.
• Water: A few drops of room temperature water can work wonders to balance out the heat and bring forward other flavor notes. Experiment with the amount of water to find the perfect balance for your palate.

Cocktail Suggestions

While Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C919 is often enjoyed neat or just with a touch of water, it can also shine in some classic whiskey-based cocktails. A couple of suggestions include:

• Old Fashioned: The rich flavors of vanilla, caramel, and brown sugar in ECBP make it a great choice for a classic Old Fashioned. Just remember to adjust the amount of sugar and bitters to balance the high proof.
• Whiskey Sour: The citrus notes in ECBP, when combined with lemon juice and a touch of simple syrup, make for a refreshingly tart and zesty Whiskey Sour.

Food Pairings

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Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C919, with its complex flavors and intense heat, can be an excellent companion to a wide variety of food. Here are some of my favorite pairings:

• Dark Chocolate: The chocolate notes present on the nose of C919 make it a natural pairing with rich dark chocolate. This combination can help bring out the best in both the whiskey and the chocolate.
• Grilled or Smoked Meats: The boldness of ECBP can complement the smoky and savory flavors of grilled or smoked meats, such as brisket, ribs, or steak.
• Cheese: Strong blue cheeses or aged cheddars can work well with the rich, intense flavors of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C919. The contrasting taste can provide a unique and satisfying experience.

Conclusion

I had the pleasure of tasting Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon Batch C919, and I must say, it’s quite an experience. The high proof point can be surprising at first, so it’s important to approach it with caution. But as I explored its flavor profile further, I was rewarded with an interesting mix of flavors, including citrus, maple, vanilla, caramel, and oak and found it to be quite an enjoyable and a welcome addition to my whiskey collection.

As I delved into the world of whiskey reviews, I discovered that many others shared my sentiments. Most reviewers agreed that while the initial alcohol burn could be intense, the whiskey transforms into a richer, more complex experience as it opens up with some air time. The presence of an oily texture adds another layer of intrigue to the C919, making it even more appealing as the flavors meld together.

Regarding its uniqueness, the C919 may not have any startling surprises up its sleeve, but it does offer a classic, flavorful bourbon experience that’s sure to satisfy enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

In closing, I’m glad I had the chance to explore the Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C919. It’s a fine example of what barrel proof bourbon can offer, and I’m excited to see what other releases Elijah Craig has in store for the future. So, if you’re in the market for a friendly yet intense bourbon experience, give the C919 a try – you might just find it as captivating as I did.