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 A04K is a combination of 40% 5 year, 30% 9 year, 10% 13 year, and 20% 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 A04K is 113.4 proof and retails for around $80 USD.

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)

Color

Dark Honey

Nose

Sweet caramels and vanillas are present on the nose with notes of allspice, flowers, and grape in the background.

Palate

A creamy mouthfeel and has a fair amount of spice that appears. Almonds, flowers, and vanilla carry over from the nose.

Finish

The finish is full of cinnamon and allspice with a touch of nuttiness. The creaminess from the palate continues into the finish.

In closing

Barrell Private Release Bourbon A04K is a nice bourbon with a lot of creaminess and spice. It was very pleasant to sip on and really just did a good job of hitting the traditional bourbon notes. This would make a really good manhattan but can definitely be sipped on neat as well.

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.