Larceny Barrel Proof Bourbon provides a chance to enjoy the proclaimed Heaven Hill wheated mash bill at cask strength. This mash bill consists of 68% corn, 20% wheat, and 12% malted barley. After aging for six to eight years, Larceny Barrel Proof Bourbon bottled without chill filtration at cask strength. Each January, May, and September a new batch of Larceny Barrel Proof Bourbon is released, this batch of B521 being released in May 2021. MSRP is set at $49.99 and the bourbon is bottled at 121 Proof.
(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)
Color
Dark Gold
Nose
Brown Sugar, orange sherbet, lemon, vanilla, barrel char, and a little bit of strawberry preserves. The alcohol is very well integrated on the nose.
Palate
The 121 proof really comes through on the palate. Nostes of toasted bread, baking spice, vanilla, and loads of dry wood. This bourbon leaves the palate quite dry and lacks the sweetness from the nose.
Finish
The finish is medium in length and leaves the mouth quite dry. Oak dominates with other subtle notes of brown sugar, vanilla, and a hunt of citrus.
In closing
Overall I found Larceny Barrel Proof Bourbon B521 to be plenty enjoyable and checked all the boxes. Oak and charred wood dominated the palate and finish, making for a rather dry tasting experience. The flavor profile is dark, dense, rich, and chalked full of classic bourbon deliciousness. B521 isn’t the most complex whiskey out there, but it’s still incredibly good and at cask strength and $50, it’s a hell of a bottle. Without a doubt, pick this one up.
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.
Matthew is the founder/owner of Whiskey Consensus and lead whiskey geek for the brand. He likes his whiskey served neat at cask strength and always jumps at the chance to learn something new.