A little background

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof is a product from Heaven Hill Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky. Named after the founder of bourbon, Reverend Elijah Craig, this whiskey packs a 12 year age statement and is bottled at barrel proof without chill filtration. Three batches are put out every year, and this particular one is the first for 2022. Taking a closer look at the name A122, the “A” denotes that it is the first batch of the year, “1” is the month that it was released in (January), and “22” signifies the year it was released in. This bottling sits at 120.8 proof and has a retail price of around $69.95 USD.

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)

Color

Burnish

Nose

Cherry, paraffin, orange cream, root beer, and a hint of vanilla yogurt on the end. Quite complex.

Palate

Butter, honey, chocolate, raisins, cola, cherries, and dried fruit.

Finish

A long and slightly drying finish. Baked cinnamon apples, chocolate, and plenty of oak.

In closing

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof is an amazing product from Heaven Hill and to no surprise, A122 is another fantastic batch. The alcohol is well integrated and the flavor profile is delectable. Classic Elijah Craig Barrel Proof notes of cherry, oak, and chocolate are present throughout. At around $70, I’d never pass up a bottle of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof.

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