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 historically packed a 12 year age statement, however, that age statement was removed by Heaven Hill in an effort to have more variation between batches. The good news is this product is still bottled at barrel proof without chill filtration. Three batches of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof are put out every year, and this particular one is the second for 2023. Taking a closer look at the name B523, the “B” denotes that it is the second batch of the year, “5” is the month that it was released in (May), and “23” signifies the year it was released in. Elijah Craig Barrel Proof B523 is bottled at 124.2 Proof, has an age statement of 11yrs and 5months, and has a retail price of around $70 USD.

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)

Color

Dark Gold

Nose

Orange taffy, lemon, fig newton, waffles & syrup, nutmeg, caramel, baked apple w/ cinnamon and butter.

Palate

Lemon, molasses, coffee, and vanilla. Sweet simple syrup quality.

Finish

Fruity. Ginger, toasted caramel, pepper, and barrel char.

In closing

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof is consistently a fantastic Bourbon release and batch B523 is no exception. This tasting experience of this release starts off with an incredible nose that’ll have you begging for a taste. On the palate you’re met with a thick and luxurious Bourbon that follows through into a wonderfully long finish. The overall flavor profile this release is much different than other Elijah Craig Barrel Proof batches, leaning more towards sweet and fruity rather an oaky and cinnamon forward. To no surprise, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof B523 is another wonderful release and one I wouldn’t hesitate buying multiple bottles of.

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.his70