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 third for 2021. Taking a closer look at the name C921, the “C” denotes that it is the third batch of the year, “9” is the month that it was released in (September), and “21” signifies the year it was released in. This bottling sits at 120.2 proof and has a retail price of around $69.95 USD.

Manufacturer: Heaven Hill Distillery
Mashbill: 78% Corn / 12% Malted Barley / 10% Rye
Location: Bardstown, Kentucky
Barrel Details: Batch C921
Proof / ABV: 120.2 / 60.1%
Retail Price: $69.95

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)

Color

Amber

Nose

Baking spices with cinnamon and sweet fruit. Light caramel, honey and oak linger in the background.

Palate

Creamy mouthfeel with sweet berry up front turning to vanilla and oak on the mid palate carrying to the finish.

Finish

Oak and cinnamon on the finish with a heat settling in the chest with aromas of sweet berry and char.

In closing

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof is an amazing product from Heaven Hill that continues to put out great whiskey with each new batch. C921 continues this tradition by capturing a great nose, good palate, and amazing finish. The nose is light an airy but packs in a ton of baking spice and cinnamon reminiscent to a bakery. The sweet fruit that typically comes to mind with Elijah Craig is more cherry however the light and airy nose it comes through more like a pear. The palate is creamy and coats the palate quickly. The finish is what really brings the whole experience together. The oak and cinnamon cut the sweet palate and mix in just enough heat for you to get warm in the brisk fall weather. The aromas of sweet berry and char come back in between sips and really bring out the nose even more. This is a definite buy at $69.95.

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.