Old Stubborn Batch 3 Single Barrel Bourbon

A Little Background

Old Stubborn Batch 3 Single Barrel, produced by Rising Tide Spirits in West Virginia, is a potstill straight bourbon whiskey showcasing the distinct qualities of individually selected barrels. This release features 15 hand-picked barrels, including 12 single barrels—comprising both wheated and rye bourbon mash bills—and three additional Founder’s single barrels, aged between 11 and 14 years. Bottled at barrel proof with minimal filtration, the proofs range from 117 to 142, with approximately 1,500 bottles available. The reviewed bottle, from barrel #SB01W (bottle 001/123), is 65.25 proof. Spearheaded by Ed Bley, former spirits manager known for his curated selections, this exclusive release is crafted to offer a unique and unrepeatable bourbon experience from 15 amazing barrels.

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)

Color

Burnished

Nose

Cinnamon, burnt caramel, orange citrus, peach, brown sugar, pecans, and dry oak.

Palate

Caramel, baking spice, dark fruit, dry leather, dark chocolate, and oak.

Finish

Caramel, cocoa, dark espresso, pecans, and dry oak.

In closing

Old Stubborn Batch 3 Single Barrel offers a bold and intricate bourbon experience that captivates from start to finish. The nose explodes with a caramel-driven intensity, mingling cinnamon, burnt caramel, orange citrus, peach, brown sugar, pecans, and dry oak, with a warmth that softens and unveils rich chocolate notes when a few drops of water are added. The palate delivers a complex blend of caramel, baking spice, dark fruit, dry leather, dark chocolate, and oak. Its finish is long and drying, featuring caramel, cocoa, dark espresso, pecans, and a tannic edge of bitter pecans that highlights the whiskey’s mature character. Commanding premium prices on the secondary market, this bourbon’s depth and allure make it a must-try for those fortunate enough to secure a bottle.

The sample used for this review was provided to us by Revival Vintage Bottle Shop with no strings attached. We thank them for the wonderful opportunity!