As a bourbon enthusiast, I recently had the pleasure of trying NULU Single Barrel Bourbon, a relatively new player in the whiskey market. With its 60.4% ABV, this bourbon is not for the faint-hearted, but it proved to be a delightful adventure for experienced whiskey drinkers like myself. I was particularly fascinated by its unique combination of flavors and the fact that it’s distilled in Indiana, which stands out from other bourbon-producing regions.

The beautifully layered flavors of NULU Single Barrel Bourbon include oak, burnt caramel, and syrup-soaked raisins. These ingredients culminate in a complex taste profile that leaves a long, buttery finish. I was also struck by how this whiskey challenges conventional expectations for MGP bourbon; it holds its own distinct character that sets it apart from others in its category.

In short, NULU Single Barrel Bourbon is an intriguing option for those looking to explore new and distinctive flavors in the bourbon world. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey enthusiast or you’re simply craving a bold drink with a rich taste profile, this bourbon is a spirited choice that’s well worth a try.

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NULU Single Barrel Bourbon Overview

Product History

Let me tell you a bit about NULU Single Barrel Bourbon’s history. It is a product of Prohibition Craft Spirits (PCS), a distillery that sources its whiskey from MGP, a well-known distillery in Indiana. MGP bourbon enjoys a good reputation, and PCS takes their whiskey to another level by carefully selecting and finishing each barrel. NULU Single Barrel Straight Bourbon is a non-chill filtered whiskey, which means the natural oils and flavors are retained, giving it a depth and richness appreciated by many whiskey enthusiasts.

Price Range

As for the price range, expect to pay around $85 for a bottle of NULU Single Barrel Bourbon. You’ll find that it offers a great balance between value and quality.

While discussing this fantastic bourbon, let me point out some of its features:

• Age: Aged for 4 to 5 years, it has quite an impressive maturity for a relatively young bourbon.
• Proof: With a proof of 112-118, this whiskey packs a punch and is not meant for beginners. Its high ABV (60.4%) brings some heat to the palette.
• Flavor Profile: This bourbon is rich in flavor, showcasing notes of cinnamon, vanilla, pepper, and dried fruits like raisins. The oak from the cask is also quite noticeable, giving it a balanced and complex profile.

Tasting Notes

Aroma

Upon nosing the NULU Single Barrel Bourbon, I noticed the initial scent of fresh nuts followed by oak. The underlying spice complements the dried raisin aroma beautifully. A tingle of ethanol is present, but it’s not too overpowering.

Flavor

My initial sip revealed a bold palate with a mix of baking spices, cinnamon sticks, and oak. The burnt caramel and syrup-soaked raisin notes added a layer of delicious complexity. I also sensed some sweetness as well as hints of honey, cherries, and peanuts. The cask strength of this bourbon allowed for all these flavors to shine through without overwhelming my palate.

Finish

The finish on the NULU Single Barrel Bourbon was quite pleasant. A slight bitterness of citrus peel lingered on my palate, accompanied by a subtle heat that gently wrapped up the tasting experience. Cherry and oak undertones were also evident, adding a unique touch to the overall finish.

Rating

In terms of rating, I would give the NULU Single Barrel Bourbon a 8 out of 10. Its complexity and balance of flavors make it an enjoyable bourbon to savor, though the peanut notes may not be everyone’s cup of tea. Regardless, I found it to be a delightful drink with a charming, friendly character.

Mixing and Pairing

As a fan of NULU Single Barrel Bourbon, I’d like to share some ideas on how to enjoy it in the best possible way. In this section, I’ll discuss some great mixers, cocktail suggestions, and food pairings that will help elevate your bourbon experience.

Best Mixers

NULU Single Barrel Bourbon has a unique flavor profile thanks to its non-chill filtered aging process and mash bill featuring corn, rye and malted barley. When it comes to finding the perfect mixer, I suggest opting for ingredients that can complement and enhance its natural flavors. Some mixers that I’ve found to work well with this straight bourbon whiskey include:

• Citrus: Their zesty tanginess pairs beautifully with the bourbon, adding a refreshing element to the drink.
• Ginger ale: This fizzy mixer adds a touch of sweetness and spice, playing nicely with the rye spice present in the bourbon.
• Club soda: Ideal for those who prefer a less sweet experience, this neutral mixer allows the bourbon’s flavors to shine through.

Cocktail Suggestions

While NULU Single Barrel Bourbon’s quality speaks for itself, you might want to step up your game with some simple yet delicious cocktails. Here are a couple of my personal favorite recipes that you might want to try:

1. NULU Old Fashioned:

• 2 oz NULU Single Barrel Bourbon
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 3 dashes Angostura bitters
• Orange or lemon peel, for garnish

Stir the bourbon, simple syrup, and bitters with ice, then strain into a glass with fresh ice. Express the citrus peel over the drink and use as a garnish.

1. NULU Bourbon Sour:

• 2 oz NULU Single Barrel Bourbon
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• 3/4 oz simple syrup
• 1 egg white (optional, for a frothy texture)

Shake all ingredients with ice, then strain into a glass. If using egg white, perform a dry shake (no ice) before adding ice and shaking again for the frothy texture.

Food Pairings

NULU Single Barrel Bourbon, with its butterscotch and black pepper notes, pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. While it’s perfect for sipping on its own, I recommend the following food pairings for a complete experience:

• Smoked or grilled meats: The rich mouthfeel and silky texture of the bourbon complement the bold flavors of smoked or grilled meats, such as brisket or ribs.
• Chocolate desserts: Dark chocolate or chocolate-based desserts bring out the butterscotch notes in the bourbon, creating a harmonious and indulgent pairing.
• Sharp or blue cheeses: The strong flavors in these cheeses can stand up to the bold character of NULU Single Barrel Bourbon, making for an interesting pairing that will delight your taste buds.

Conclusion

I had the opportunity to enjoy NULU Single Barrel Bourbon, and I must say, it didn’t disappoint. The bourbon’s light body is quite deceiving, as it packs a robust and complex blend of flavors. With a pleasant bitterness of citrus peel that lingers on the palate, it truly showcases its unique personality.

As I took in the aroma, I was greeted by an inviting mix of fresh nuts, oak, underlying spice, and dried raisins. And with each sip, I discovered layers of baking spice, cinnamon sticks, burnt caramel, and syrup-soaked raisins. The delicious medley of flavors led me to anticipate the finish.

And what a treat the finish was! I savored the notes of leather, dried cherry, oak, light rye spice, and a touch of earthy rye toast. It truly was an earthy and lingering experience that left me wanting more.

In my opinion, NULU Single Barrel Bourbon is well worth the price tag of around $85. The rich flavors, complex character, and captivating aroma make it an excellent choice for any bourbon enthusiast. I, for one, will definitely be revisiting this delightful bourbon in the future. Cheers to a wonderful bourbon experience!