Barrell Private Release Bourbon Batch A19A

A little background

According to Barrell Bourbon, the Barrell Private Release Bourbon series is an exercise in micro-blending and variations on a theme where they select bourbons of four different ages and blend them into multiple recipes. Each blend number has its own ratios, printed on the label, and is constructed in its own ex-bourbon barrel. Barrell Bourbon blend A19A is a combination of 10% 5 year, 10% 9 year, 10% 13 year, and 70% 15 year bourbons. The source of the bourbon that went into these blends is unknown. However, Barrell Bourbon sources whiskey from all over the world including places like Indiana, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Canada. Barrell Private Release Bourbon A19A is 108.02 proof and retails for around $80.

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)

Color

Amber

Nose

Butterscotch, caramel, flowers, herbal tea, allspice, and pepper come through.

Palate

Sweet oak, butterscotch, peanut butter, pepper, allspice, and grape juice are present. The oak and spice really shine.

Finish

This is a medium to long finish consisting of oak, pepper, allspice, butterscotch, and peanuts. The finish just keeps going.

In closing

Barrell Private Release Bourbon Batch A19A
is a superb whiskey. The high percentage of the older whiskey really shines through with the oak and pepper notes, but the whiskey remains balance throughout. This is a good value for the age of the whiskey and something I will search out for my bar.

NOTE: The sample used for this review was provided at no cost courtesy of Barrell Craft Spirits. We thank them for the sample and for allowing us to review it with no strings attached.