Barrell Private Release Bourbon A35R

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 A35R is a combination of 10% 5 year, 40% 9 year, 25% 13 year, and 25% 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 A35R is 115.16 proof and retails for around $80.

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)

Color

Mahogany

Nose

On the nose, I get a ton of caramel and brown sugar with allspice, almonds, and pear in the background.

Palate

The palate is full of spice and is very grain forward with notes of hay, corn, and rye. There is also a juice like quality to the whiskey with notes of grape and pear. The sweet notes become more subtle.

Finish

This is a long finish with notes of cinnamon, allspice, grapes, and caramel. Mineral water and grass notes start to show through as well.

In closing

This is a bourbon that will appeal to people who enjoy grain forward and mineral forward profiles. The spice is quite pleasant throughout, and the nose is exceptional. I enjoyed this bourbon even thought it is not typically something I would gravitate towards. While this is not something I would personally buy, I think a lot of people will enjoy this.

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.