Barrell Bourbon Batch 006

In the glass, Batch 006 appears a rather dark and rich mahogany or bronze color. The aroma is the highlight of Batch 006. Asian pear, plum, peach, and exotic fruits are present. Significant oak provided a solid structure for those sweeter aromas. There's just a slight hint of alcohol sting, as expected with such a strong bourbon. Unfortunately, this is followed by a bit of a disappointment. Batch 006 has a fruity entry, consistent with the aroma, followed by toffee, plums, brown sugar, heather, and ginger. However, the flavors don't hit with power, if that makes sense, which is particularly odd given the proof. Batch 006 had a sensation of a "hole in the palate," a strange description I've encountered in other reviews and have come to understand after tasting many different whiskies. There comes a point in the flavor progression where you anticipate an intensified experience (it's like a, "Now for the guitar solo!" moment). Only a few bourbons meet that challenge, and they are the true standouts. I don't believe this bourbon quite reaches that level. On the plus side, it does have a very long finish and is quite complex. I detect rye spice, cherry candy, and a lot of oak, with considerable warmth as it goes down. However, the final lingering note is a grassy, slightly bitter taste that I associate with younger cask-strength whiskies.

Initially, the nose appears straightforward, but after a few moments, a wave of walnuts emerges. The palate delivers significant warmth, even when contrasted with the 007, which has a comparable proof. An intense yet manageable spice follows and lingers on the tongue. Notes of walnuts, caramel, honey, and potpourri are present. It's like walnut liqueur, but complex and delightful. Possibly my favorite bourbon. A must-try, though I'm hoping the hype dies down so I can acquire any remaining bottles out in the world. 2/18/17. I sampled Batch 011 last night; it was quite good, prompting me to revisit this one tonight to confirm if Batch 006 remained my top choice from Barrell. Confirmed. Sweet walnuts on the nose, and I also detect pears this time. Be prepared; the initial sip might bring tears to your eyes. It features charred oak, baking spices, honey-roasted nuts, cocoa nibs, with a pleasant tingle and deep warmth throughout. Sadly, I haven't found a replacement for my single bottle; I'll be disappointed when it's gone. 5/22/17 Over three years later, opening a backup bottle. Nutty on the nose. Walnuts. On the palate, the walnuts are still there, along with sweet tea, baking spice, and dark chocolate. It has the character of walnut liqueur. The finish is reasonably long with spice. It holds up well. 10/09/20

Who doesn't enjoy samples? Last year, I figured I consumed about $8.7 million worth of complimentary chicken parmesan samples at Costco. A friend graciously sent me a sample of something I've been wanting to try: Barrell Bourbon. This is batch #6, which is renowned among Barrell aficionados, and I understand why! From the first whiff and sip, I immediately thought of OBSQ Four Roses, but I realized this is a Tennessee-sourced whiskey, so that's impossible. It's incredibly fruity and floral, with a burst of Big Red gum at the end. I had an embarrassing emotional reaction when this was finished. I was desperately licking my whiskey glass after the sample was gone. For this batch, I'm pulling out all the stops. Excellent work, Barrell! 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Among the top new bourbon releases of 2017, alongside Four Roses Al Young. Barrell has not yet released a superior batch (bourbon).

Comparable to Booker's, but less intense initially. Not as good value at 18 compared to 11 at the oak.

The best of the 3 Barrel Bourbon types I've sampled. This is a true success. A little expensive, though.