Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon Batch B520

DISTILLER SCORE COMPARISON: WHISKIES RATED 95 POINTS BY DISTILLER ELIJAH CRAIG BARREL PROOF B520 RUSSELL’S RESERVE SINGLE BARREL BOURBON JOHNNIE WALKER GREEN LABEL 15 YEAR Previously, I covered six whiskies with 97 or 96 points. This time, I'm focusing on the 95-point benchmark, of which I have three bottles. In this group, there are two bourbons and one blended malt. This raises an interesting question: how do whiskies with identical high scores compare, regardless of their type? ELIJAH CRAIG BARREL PROOF B520 This has a clear, deep mahogany color, the darkest of the three. The aroma is rich and inviting, offering classic bourbon notes like brown sugar, coconut, vanilla, oak, and chocolate-covered cherries, with a subtle hint of cilantro and cool spearmint. Surprisingly, there's no alcohol sharpness on the nose, despite the 127.2 proof. The palate is effusive and coats the mouth with good viscosity. The high proof is noticeable on the finish, but it's lighter than expected and very well-integrated. The finish is long, with hints of char, vanilla, and candied marasca cherries. In short: ECBP B520 is excellent. Current releases are priced around $80-90, if available. This bourbon holds its own against any other ECBP. I need to compare it with the B517, which was Whisky Advocate’s Whisky of the Year in 2017, and the current C923. Would I purchase it again? Absolutely. I believe ECBP generally offers exceptional value in the bourbon market. I make a point to buy every triannual release and have many from the past five or six years. 127.2 proof. Aged 12 years. RUSSELL’S RESERVE SINGLE BARREL BOURBON This presents a deep coppered amber color. The nose features coconut, reminiscent of a Mounds candy bar, then shifts to apples, caramel, sawdust, pumpkin pie, vanilla, and a cooling mint. The palate is wonderful, with notes of leather and pipe tobacco. The finish has some oaky char, vanilla, and a pleasant rye spice. The alcohol is well-balanced, providing a sensation somewhere between a "Kentucky Hug" and a "Bardstown Kiss," though it doesn’t feel 17 proof points lower than the ECBP B520. Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel typically costs around $65. Would I purchase it again? Yes. I always keep this bourbon on hand and consider it an even better value than the ECBP. 110 proof. No age statement. JOHNNIE WALKER GREEN LABEL 15 YEAR This is the lightest in color of the three, with a golden amber hue. The fruity aroma offers apples, a gentle smoky peat, yeast rolls, and a hint of orange zest. The palate has a light mouthfeel, but the same flavors are present. The finish starts with white pepper, followed by another appearance of yeast rolls, and finally, a very long, gentle smoke – the longest of the three. I initially bought this whisky based on several recommendations but didn't enjoy it much at first, letting it sit for a while. However, the more I taste it, the more I like it. I would love to try this at cask strength, and while I don't see that option on their website, some special editions online are priced around $3,000, which is not feasible. JW15 can be found for about $65 when available. Would I purchase it again? Yes. 43% ABV. Aged 15 years. Coloring added. ABOUT RATINGS What makes a rating good? Ultimately, beauty or merit is subjective. No scoring system is flawless, but many can be improved. Furthermore, what is the reasoning and method behind each system? Many 0-100 scales, similar to academic grading, tend to be inflated, usually falling between 60 and 100. Also, how are rankings determined? There are various approaches: 33% for nose, 33% for palate, 33% for finish; or incorporating factors like value. While this might seem restrictive, it's preferable to an unstructured approach. The advantage of imposing some framework is that while some may disregard it, others will adopt it, leading to better comparisons. CONCLUSION I anticipated the ECBP B520 would surpass the other two due to its proof and intensity. However, that wasn't the outcome. The Russell’s Reserve matched it effectively, and the Johnnie Walker 15 performed admirably as well, despite its much lower proof. I was genuinely surprised. These whiskies represent distinct styles and types. The ECBP B520 is "Hazmat level" in proof with corresponding flavor intensity; the Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel is higher than standard bourbon proof and is a single barrel, allowing for variation. In my experience, it maintains a consistent flavor profile with appreciated richness. The JW15 is, of course, a blended Scotch whisky. I'm still impressed by how well the JW15 held its own against the others; it certainly exceeds expectations. All three offer excellent value. I rated the ECBP B520 only a quarter point higher than the other two. It offers a fuller, richer experience with everything well-integrated despite the significantly higher proof. However, this doesn't necessarily make it the "winner"; the distinct styles are clear, and each is an excellent example of its kind. I recently wrote a comparison that included Bowmore 18, stating, "in my collection, there’s little reason for me to think ‘Hmm, I think I’ll have that Bowmore 18 tonight’ given so many other choices." This is a crucial differentiator that I should consider alongside the "Would I buy it again" criterion. For each of these whiskies, I could ask that question, and depending on my mood, I would often answer affirmatively. All three are very good, and distinctly different. All spirits were tasted neat in a Glencairn glass. (Note: This entire review is repeated for each whisky tasted for comparison and context; the reviews are presented in the same order as the whiskies are listed at the top.)

A comparison of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof releases: B517, B520, and C923. I have a long history with ECBP, owning and drinking most releases from the last 6-7 years. This review pits three highly regarded ECBP bottlings from different vintages against each other: B517, recognized as Whisky of the Year; B520, considered by many to be a top ECBP; and C923, recently given a 4.75 rating and much praise from the bourbon community. Let's see how they stack up. ELIJAH CRAIG BARREL PROOF B517 A deep orange mahogany hue (Pantone 153). The complex aroma presents cocoa powder, pomander, oiled leather, caramel, vanilla, Luxardo cherries, charred oak, a Wild Turkey-esque dustiness, grape jelly, and spearmint. The taste has a pleasing thickness, with sweet oak and caramel. The robust flavors manage the alcohol well, leading to a lengthy finish with crème brûlée and abundant oaky vanilla. While the debate continues on whether 'Whisky of the Year' is a marketing ploy or a genuine assessment, the chosen spirit is usually quite good, and ECBP B517 certainly fits that description. It offers ample complexity, a high yet well-integrated proof, and a fair price given its quality. Current ECBP bottles sell for $85. Would I purchase it again? Absolutely. It's one of the best values in bourbon. Scored 4.5 (previously 4.25). 124.2 proof. 12-year age statement. Non chill filtered. ELIJAH CRAIG BARREL PROOF B520 A deep mahogany color, slightly darker than B517 (Pantone 160). The amazing nose reveals chai tea, milk chocolate, strawberry preserves, cocoa, graham cracker, cappuccino, orange zest, cherry pie filling, mulled cider, spearmint, and maple syrup—all without any noticeable alcohol. The palate offers a light, glycerin-like mouthfeel and a sweetness. The finish is full of cinnamon red hots and vanilla extract. The nose on ECBP B520 is exceptionally intricate. As I sampled each bottle sequentially and continued to cycle through them, different aromatic notes emerged from the B520. It possesses both strength and refinement. As mentioned, current ECBP releases are available for $85. Would I buy it again? Without hesitation. Scored 4.75. 127.2 proof. 12-year age statement. Non chill filtered. ELIJAH CRAIG BARREL PROOF C923 Its color is a blend of burnt orange and mahogany, a touch lighter than B520 (Pantone 153). Upon pouring, the C923 releases a pervasive warmth into the aroma. Orange oil is prominent, followed by cedar, Chinese five spice, dust, apples, zesty BBQ sauce, soy sauce, and a hint of menthol. Similar to the B520, there's no alcohol sting on the nose. The mouthfeel has comparable thickness, though the palate isn't quite as sweet as the B520. The high proof becomes apparent towards the end, transitioning to a finish with brown sugar, oaky vanilla, dry leather, and a significant Kentucky Hug. For the third time in this review: where else can you find a bourbon with such high proof, complexity, and a robust flavor profile? There's a valid reason for the bourbon community's enthusiasm for ECBP C923. Would I buy it? Yes. Scored 4.75. 133 proof. 13 year, 7 month age statement. Non chill filtered. METHODOLOGY High-proof spirits require a cautious approach, even for those who enjoy high-proof whiskeys. Initial sips can be quite intense, and it takes a few moments for the palate to adjust before the true tasting can begin, which for me involves about a 10-12 minute acclimation period. For this comparison, I first smelled each whiskey one after another, taking small sips, and noted a single word or brief phrase for each before moving on. This continued until I could no longer distinguish unique identifiers. Then, I tasted each one, recording the flavor and finish in a similar fashion. I repeated this process again and then again the following night before composing each description. CONCLUSION These three ECBP bottlings, spanning six years, demonstrate a consistent quality. Each release shares commonalities and overlapping flavor notes. As others have pointed out, variations between different batches of the same bourbon can be subtle. The most significant differences here lie not in the flavor profiles themselves, but in their intensity and presence on the nose, palate, and finish, as well as how the alcohol integrates, irrespective of the proof. In short: power and balance. The B517 is very good, and I'm pleased to have a couple of extra bottles saved. However, despite its strength and complexity, it falls slightly short of the B520 and C923. This isn't a slight, as the B520 and C923 are exceptional. The B520 is outstanding; each time I revisit it—and I've had numerous sips across the three over the past two days—I discover something new. The C923 is the most potent of the three. Its proof is a bit higher, which is noticeable as it should be, and its flavors are abundant, flooding the nose and coating the palate. It evokes the richness found in whiskies like William Larue Weller or George T. Stagg. It's opulent, but not crude. It possesses a refined weightiness, akin to a fine shearling coat. It commands attention without apology, and its robust Kentucky welcome reminds you that you are in its domain. However, the C923 is slightly off-balance. Its intensity doesn't quite match the 133 proof. If the alcohol were more integrated, the C923 would be a perfect score. But in this competition, the B520 emerges victorious by a narrow margin. All spirits were tasted neat in a Glencairn glass. (Note: This entire review is presented for each whiskey tasted to allow for comparison and context. The reviews appear in the same sequence as the whiskies are listed at the top.)

Rating: 22/23 Revisiting the final 50ml of a bottle I've had stored for some time. Nose: Not overwhelmingly full, but that's typical for high-proof spirits. It offers interesting character, blending mature wood with yeast, a hint of smoke, some fudge, subtle pleasant spices, traces of creosote, and a touch of anise. The balance is good, making for an enjoyable aroma. The high alcohol content isn't readily apparent. A bit of vanilla accompanies the fudge notes. Palate: Features creosote, anise, vanilla, mature wood, fudge, and a noticeable alcohol warmth. The spices integrate smoothly, enhancing the sophistication. I detect some alcohol, but it's not excessive. There's pleasing complexity with well-balanced flavors. Finish: While some alcohol and burn are initially present, anise and chocolate eventually emerge alongside rich wood and spices. The herbal and mineral notes are subtly retained. Minerals become more prominent in the extended finish. - Conclusion - Elijah Craig A121 is somewhat thinner and less complex, with more burn (from the neck pour). However, it boasts significantly more fudge, hinting at future richness. My previous impression of chocolate here is overshadowed by A121's intensity. Oddly, this version is thinner on the palate but fuller on the finish. These two are serious contenders. I'm genuinely surprised that the mature iteration of B520 could be challenged by the neck pour of another release. The complexity is higher here, but the balance is surprisingly reduced. It's also less smooth. Reaching a definitive conclusion is difficult, as I find them to be highly competitive, a shocking outcome. Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Barrel Proof (21/23) offers more decadence but less complexity. This possesses more of that sour mash character and fudge. I now believe Jack Daniel's is a stronger competitor to this than I previously thought. Perhaps extended aging and aeration have taken it too far. Wild Turkey Rare Breed (18-19/23) is a bit bolder than this, but it has some pleasing sweet, fruity funk. I would prefer this over the Wild Turkey. Would I choose this over the Jack Daniel's? It's difficult to rank it lower, but I might. This certainly doesn't reach a 23 rating. Concluding my side-by-side comparison, I would select this over the Jack Daniel's. I believe it maintains its 22 rating, slightly.

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof (ECBP) is a favorite bourbon. Heaven Hill, the maker of Elijah Craig, produces ECBP three times annually (January, May, September). Each release has a four-character code: January is “A1” (A for the first release; 1 for January); May is “B2” (B for the second release; 5 for May); and September is “C3” (C for the third release; 9 for September). The last two characters represent the last two digits of the year. Thus “B520” is the second release, in May, of 2020. All ECBP bottles have a 12-year age statement, and the proof typically is between 120 and nearly 140. Drinker beware. I randomly selected B520 and A122 since I have both open (I possess most if not all releases from the past four years or so). B520: Clear orange mahogany color. Potent aroma: noticeable ethanol (as expected; this is barrel proof bourbon) almost gets lost amidst the explosion of olfactory elements: malted milk balls, freshly cut grass, maple syrup, creosote railroad ties, split oak, sweet pipe tobacco, and vanilla. (Note: after smelling the A122, there's a very distinct toasted marshmallow aroma). A powerful mouthfeel starts with heat, featuring notes of sweet café Cubano, leather, and cigar tobacco, plus cinnamon. Faint woody tannins and a hint of vanilla on the medium-length finish. A122: Clear orange mahogany color; identical to the B520. Different aroma: ethanol is less pronounced (120.8 compared to B520’s 127.2); it’s more grassy instead of hay-like; some coconut; chocolate-covered cherries; sweet pipe tobacco and toasted marshmallow similar to the B520; and pomander and red hots. The palate is woodier and leathery, with expected (and welcome) heat, before finishing with lingering coconut and vanilla notes. Different release years, different months, different proofs: the consistent (though slightly varied) quality and immense pleasure that both these bottles provide demonstrate why every ECBP release is added to my collection, whether I've tried it before or not. Regardless of the release, bourbon enthusiasts can count on a great pour. And at $70-80 retail, ECBP offers exceptional value in today's increasingly wild bourbon market. N.B. All spirits were tasted neat in a Glencairn glass.

The aroma is rich and concentrated, beginning with bananas foster, cherry pie filling, cinnamon sugar-dusted donuts, and old leather. It continues with dark chocolate Ferrero Rocher and fresh pipe tobacco, then sautéed apples, raspberry jam, and mandarin oranges. Finally, ginger, spearmint, anise, cloves, and polished mahogany emerge, accompanied by a strong alcohol presence. The palate has a medium body, starting with bananas foster, cherry pie filling, cinnamon sugar-dusted donuts, and old leather. A moderately bitter and sour spice quickly subsides, giving way to dark chocolate-covered espresso beans and fresh pipe tobacco. This is followed by sautéed apples, raspberry jam, and mandarin oranges, then ginger, spearmint, anise, black pepper, cloves, and polished mahogany, all with a strong alcohol burn. The finish is lengthy, featuring a mild black pepper spice, cocoa nibs, maraschino cherries, caramelized bananas, anise, cloves, spearmint, leather, and polished mahogany. This is an excellent bourbon with an aroma similar to a previous release, presenting robust and well-rounded notes of sweet citrus, fried bread, slight sourness, aged oak, and subtle rye spices. It includes an added dimension of creamy fudge that carries through to the palate, mirroring the balanced aroma. A minor drawback is a fleeting bitter spice that slightly disrupts the profile, and the finish is long with a balanced blend of lightly spicy earthy components, creamy fruit, and well-aged oak. So far, this is my top pick among the three Elijah Craig expressions I've sampled. Many thanks to friends for sharing this delight with me.

ECBP has now secured a spot among my preferred bourbon selections (or any whiskey, for that matter.) Previously, I had tried 3 other batches, which is sufficient to earn that distinction. B520 has the second lowest ABV of any batch I've encountered, yet it feels considerably stronger than the B519 I sampled last. The key question is how this will rank in terms of quality. Let's discover. Nose: Caramel, vanilla, peanut butter, maple, sharp cocoa, brown sugar, and maraschino cherry. Hints of leather and tobacco. Notes of carrot cake and fudge. Touches of barrel char, cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, black pepper, and allspice. Abundant oak, as anticipated from a 12-year-old bourbon. The nose is superb. Palate: Vanilla, caramel, brown sugar, and cola. Gala apple and cherry. Fudge and peanut butter. Black tea. Apricot and peach. Carrot cake. Orange zest and tobacco smoke. Clove and nutmeg. Prominent oak and barrel char. Finish: Apricot, peach, caramel, vanilla. Cinnamon, black pepper, clove, nutmeg, allspice, and layers of oak. An exceptionally long finish. Indistinguishable. Absolutely. ECBP typically has excessively high ABV levels. This one falls within the Booker's range. And it performs comparably to any of those. C917, A119, and now B520. What connects them? They represent the exceptional batches of ECBP. This is an astonishingly good bourbon. It possesses depth, complexity, and delivers a significant impact. It's May 2021. If you appreciate bourbon, I highly advise you to seek this out. With diligent searching, you should still be able to find it.