Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon Batch C923

Continuing my exploration of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof (ECBP) releases from my personal stash. I have numerous years and batches of ECBP. The only full years where I possess all three annual releases are 2017 and 2023. I previously compared the ECBP A123 against its cousin, Larceny Barrel Proof A123, in a prior "Showdown" (October 11, 2023). However, I haven't yet reviewed all three 2023 releases in this comparative format. In 2017, Elijah Craig updated its bottle and label design. From the A117 release through A123, the bottom of the label featured three designated areas for proof, ABV, and batch identification (e.g., A123). Each bottle carried a 12-year age statement. This changed starting with the B523 release and has continued with C923. While these labels still display the proof in the first box, the second box now indicates the age statement, which is no longer exclusively 12 years. The B523 is noted as 11 years and 5 months, and the C923 is 13 years and 7 months. I've compiled and analyzed seven years of community ranking data for each of the three annual ECBP ratings. By averaging these 21 averages, I've established a community mean for the 2017-2023 period. This allows us to gauge how a specific release is perceived by the group in relation to the overall average. (If statistics aren't your thing, feel free to skip the following two paragraphs). Since I cannot consolidate all ratings for each individual release (hint, hint to the brand owners!), I'm unable to calculate a standard deviation for a particular batch. However, I can compute the z-score for each release relative to the entire dataset. The z-score is calculated by taking the mean for the specific release, subtracting the mean for the entire sample, and then dividing by the overall sample's standard deviation. This metric quantifies how much a specific release deviates, positively or negatively, from the community's collective ranking of all ECBP batches over the sampled duration. Assuming a normal distribution, any z-score within a range of +/- 1.0 standard deviation is considered within typical parameters (according to the empirical rule, approximately 68% of the data falls within +/- 1 standard deviation from the mean). A z-score of +/- 2 standard deviations would encompass roughly 95% of the data, and +/- 3 accounts for about 99%. Therefore, a z-score of +1.5 would signify a release that is notably better than average, while -1.5 would indicate significantly worse. A z-score of 2.0 suggests a performance exceeding 95% of the sample, and so on. (End of statistical analysis). Elijah Craig Barrel Proof A123 This 2023 release, like the others, presents a clear mahogany hue, reminiscent of Pantone 159. The aroma offers notes of caramelized sugar, root beer, pineapple upside-down cake, barbecue sauce, caramel, maple syrup, chocolate pudding pie, and vanilla. A subtle vegetal hint, akin to celery seed, adds an interesting complexity. The impressive depth and range detected on the nose carry through seamlessly to the palate, which is characterized by sweetness and spice. The lengthy finish features some dry leather and abundant vanilla. In my previous comparison between ECBP A123 and Larceny Barrel Proof A123, I scored the ECBP at 4.25 versus the LBP's 4.5. If that assessment was accurate, I'm eager to revisit the LBP A123! The ECBP A123 is exceptionally good. Would I purchase it again? Absolutely. Elijah Craig Barrel Proof stands out as the premier value in the entire bourbon landscape. While $80 isn't considered 'cheap,' it is remarkably affordable given the current bourbon market's excesses, offering outstanding value considering its price, flavor profile, and proof. It easily earns a 4.5 on the community scale. My score: 4.5 Community: average score (m)=4.42, z-score=1.13, sample size (n)=49 (significantly above average for all ECBP releases). 125.6 proof. 12-year age statement. Elijah Craig Barrel Proof B523 This 2023 release shares the same clear mahogany color as the others, resembling Pantone 159. The nose is more subdued compared to the A123 (though it does become more pronounced after about 15 minutes of aeration). It presents notes of cocoa, pecan pie, marzipan, deep sandalwood, and a dry, dusty leather character. The palate becomes considerably more assertive, featuring cola syrup and a rich honeyed sweetness. The 124.2 proof, the lowest among the three, makes its presence known. This assertiveness persists into the finish, with the return of the dry, dusty leather note, accompanied by a slight bitterness and a touch of vanilla. As of last week, the community on this platform ranked the B523 at 4.47, trailing only the C523's 4.49. I find myself in disagreement with this ranking. The aroma is quite reserved compared to its A123 and C923 counterparts, and this subdued nose feels somewhat disconnected from its palate profile. To be fair, these are minor criticisms stemming from high expectations. Would I buy it again? Yes, without question. I have never been disappointed by any release of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof, and the fact that they can be found for around $80 is truly astonishing. I rate it 4.25 on the community scale. My score: 4.25 Community: average score (m)=4.47, z-score=1.49, sample size (n)=69 (well above the average for all ECBP releases). 124.2 proof. 11-year, 5-month age statement. Elijah Craig Barrel Proof C923 Consistent with the other 2023 releases, the C923 exhibits a clear mahogany color, akin to Pantone 159. The nose is abundant and intense, revealing notes of banana bread, brown sugar, rich apple pie, caramel, sweet and sour sauce, the same very subtle celery-seed note observed in the A123, and a refreshing hint of licorice. On the palate, the flavors coat the tongue, and the powerful flavor intensity effectively balances the high 133 proof. The finish offers toasted marshmallow, including some that have been slightly charred, along with hints of root beer and vanilla. Remarkable. Truly exceptional. The ECBP C923 is on another level. To my recollection, this is my favorite ECBP release to date. This bourbon can be found for $79.99, which represents the best bourbon value I have ever encountered (the A123 is not far behind). Would I purchase it again? Yes. If you happen to see any at retail, please leave a comment below, and I'll be there immediately. It scores 4.75 on the community scale. My score: 4.75 Community: average score (m)=4.49, z-score=1.64, sample size (n)=69 (significantly better than all other ECBP releases). 133.0 proof. 13-year, 7-month age statement. Overall, the B523 comes across as the mildest of the trio, making it the easiest to rank. It has the lowest stated age and the lowest proof (only slightly lower than the A123). However, this isn't a criticism; it's still a very good pour. "Mildest" is a comparative term relative to the other two; tasted independently, that same descriptor might be perceived as "smooth." The nose, however, is significantly less prominent in comparison. The A123 and C923, on the other hand, are in a different league, boasting robust aromas and flavors from beginning to end. As previously mentioned, these "Showdown" formats are not primarily intended to determine definitive winners or losers, but rather to provide context among different expressions. For the 2023 ECBP releases, however, a clear hierarchy emerges: C923, followed closely by A123, and then B523. I would gladly enjoy the B523 neat and savor every drop. For clarity, my assessment is not influenced by the May release having a slightly lower age statement (11 years, 5 months) than ECBP's typical 12 years. It simply lacks the extraordinary intensity found in the January and September 2023 releases. In the future, I plan to compare the ECBP B523 with the Larceny Barrel Proof B523; perhaps the ECBP will present differently in that context. Note: All spirits were tasted neat in a Glencairn glass.

A long-time admirer of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof (ECBP), I've followed its releases for years. This comparison examines three highly-regarded ECBP batches: B517, recognized as Whisky of the Year; B520, considered by many to be an exceptional ECBP; and C923, which has recently earned significant acclaim from the bourbon community. Let's see how they stack up. ELIJAH CRAIG BARREL PROOF B517 A deep orange mahogany hue. The complex aroma offers cocoa powder, spiced orange, oiled leather, caramel, vanilla, Luxardo cherries, charred wood, a Wild Turkey-esque dustiness, grape jam, and spearmint. The liquid has a pleasant thickness, featuring sweet oak and caramel. The robust flavor profile effectively manages the alcohol's intensity, leading to a lengthy finish with crème brûlée and abundant oaky vanilla. Regardless of whether Whisky Advocate's top pick is a marketing ploy or a genuine assessment, the chosen spirit is usually quite good, and the ECBP B517 certainly fits that description. It boasts ample complexity, a high yet well-integrated proof, and a fair price given its quality. Current ECBP bottles sell for $85. I would purchase it again; it's among the best bourbon values available. Rated 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. The remarkable nose presents chai tea, milk chocolate, strawberry jam, cocoa, graham cracker, cappuccino, citrus zest, cherry pie filling, mulled cider, spearmint, and maple syrup, all without a noticeable alcohol presence. The palate has a light, glycerin-like mouthfeel with a pleasant sweetness, and the finish is rich with cinnamon red hots and vanilla extract. The nose on the ECBP B520 is incredibly intricate. As I sampled each release sequentially and revisited them, the B520 consistently revealed new aromatic nuances. It is both potent and sophisticated. As noted before, current ECBP batches are priced at $85. I would buy it without hesitation. Rated 4.75. 127.2 proof. 12-year age statement. Non chill filtered. ELIJAH CRAIG BARREL PROOF C923 A color between burnt orange and mahogany, a touch lighter than B520. Upon pouring, the C923 immediately fills the nose with a comforting warmth. 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 texture is comparable in thickness, though the palate is not quite as sweet as the B520. The high proof becomes apparent on the finish, which features brown sugar, oaky vanilla, dry leather, and a significant Kentucky Hug. Once again, consider where else you can find a bourbon with such a high proof, layered complexity, and robust flavor profile. There's a clear reason for the bourbon community's enthusiasm for ECBP C923. I would purchase it. Rated 4.75. 133 proof. 13 year, 7 month age statement. Non chill filtered. METHODOLOGY Approaching high-proof spirits requires caution, even for someone who enjoys intense whiskies. Initial sips can be quite hot, needing time for the palate to adjust before true tasting can commence; this typically requires a 10-12 minute acclimation period for me. For this comparison, I first assessed each aroma, taking small sips and noting a single word or brief phrase before moving to the next. I continued this until I could no longer distinguish unique characteristics. Then, I focused on the taste and finish, documenting them similarly. This process was repeated for thoroughness, including a second evening of tasting before writing the detailed descriptions. CONCLUSION These three ECBP batches, spanning six years, demonstrate a remarkable consistency. Each release shares commonalities and overlapping flavor notes. As a friend has pointed out, variations between batches of the same bourbon can be subtle. The primary distinctions here lie not in the core flavor profiles, but in their intensity and presence on the nose, palate, and finish, as well as how the alcohol integrates, irrespective of the proof level. In essence, it's about power and equilibrium. The B517 is very good, and I'm pleased to have backups, but despite its strength and depth, it falls slightly short of the B520 and C923. This is not a slight, as the B520 and C923 are world-class. The B520 is exceptional; each time I revisit it over the past couple of days, tasting across all three, I discover something new. The C923 is the most potent of the trio. Its higher proof is noticeable as it should be, and it delivers an effusive flavor that overwhelms the senses and coats the palate. It evokes the richness found in whiskies like William Larue Weller or George T. Stagg. It is opulent without being aggressive, possessing a sophisticated weight, akin to a fine shearling coat. It commands attention unequivocally, and its substantial Kentucky Hug asserts its presence. However, the C923 is somewhat lacking in balance. Its sheer intensity doesn't quite align with the 133 proof. If the alcohol were more integrated, the C923 would achieve 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 provide context and allow for comparison. The reviews appear in the same sequence as the whiskies are listed initially.)

A warning upfront: I've sampled this a few times, but I'm finally opening my own bottle at home... so let's evaluate this (I already know it's wonderful) initial pour... It pours a reddish amber, suggesting some of its maturity... it's an attractive bourbon, but honestly, that's not the reason for the high praise... Moving on to the aroma... did someone replace some aged Parker's Heritage with this in my glass? Am I smelling George T. Stagg? This is incredible... both powerful and subtle at the same time. Ripe berries, caramel, a perfect amount of oaky tannin, vanilla bean, and an almost wine-like character... with absolutely no ethanol. While I'd consider it absurd to try and guess the alcohol content from the aroma (though it might be amusing), I'd probably estimate it as Bottled-in-Bond strength or less... and I'd be astonished to discover it's 133 proof. I'll say this: the aroma is practically perfect... and I genuinely enjoyed the scents for 15 minutes before taking the first sip. The palate continues the journey... and what a journey it is. Before focusing on individual flavors, I found it remarkable how the taste bursts forth upon sipping, then quickly recedes before warming into a long, consistently warming, finish. An astonishing amount of caramel is complemented by warm berries, creme brulee, a hint of roasted coffee bean, chocolate, vanilla, more dark fruits, specifically blackberry/raspberry, and again, the ideal amount of charred oak - the barrel influence is noteworthy, for good reason. To sum up the flavor: 'wow!'. This is as easy to drink as 133 proof can possibly be... just a tiny bit of initial ethanol burn and an incredibly smooth sipper. Water, you ask? Unnecessary, and in fact, it detracts from an already flawless experience. This is quite possibly the best value I've ever gotten from purchasing a bottle... I can find no fault to prevent this from receiving a perfect score, especially considering the price.

First taste review Aroma: prominent notes of Dr Pepper, cola, vanilla, and sweet oak. There's a lot going on, with many layers. Taste: delivers a stronger flavor impact than any ECBP I've had previously. The mouthfeel and viscosity are excellent, as usual. Abundant cherry cola and honey. The proof contributes a bright fruitiness. Finish: dry, seasoned oak, dark chocolate, and bitter coffee. Rated 9 on the t8ke scale.

I am relatively new to ECBP. My first bottle was A121, which I enjoyed immensely, and I haven't found any subsequent bottles to be as good. Of the 2022 batches, my favorite was C922. I still have a good amount left of it, and since I haven't been drinking much bourbon recently, I skipped the previous 2023 releases. I decided to purchase the C923 when it began receiving positive reviews, and I feel fortunate to have found one, as they seem to have sold out quickly. On the nose, dark brown sugar, vanilla, furniture polish, and a hint of charred steak spice and crust. The mouthfeel is quite thick and coating, with caramel, vanilla, cherry syrup, and oak tannin. It drinks much lower than its stated proof. The finish has a slight astringent tannic note, balanced by the sweet caramel and vanilla drizzle. This is rich, decadent, oaky, and delicious. The only other batch I have on hand is the C922, and this one is significantly more enjoyable. I've had better bourbon, but at under $80, this is an incredible value in today's whiskey market. Rating 4.5 - 4.75, with a bonus for value.

The highly acclaimed C923. As a big admirer of this particular expression, I'm eager to see how this well-regarded bottling compares. Its aroma is 'dark' with balanced notes of plum, caramel, dates, French vanilla ice cream, fig, custard, nutmeg, and sweet oak. It's complex and appealing. The alcohol presence is low considering the proof. The taste mirrors the caramel and vanilla from the nose, with less fruit than the aroma suggested, though I do detect pleasant black cherry and berry notes. Butterscotch, raisin, black pepper, hazelnut, and toffee are also present. The flavors are rich and indulgent. There's a noticeable warmth on the tongue. The finish is exceptionally long, with a bloom of cinnamon, allspice, and ginger, along with brown sugar, aged leather, and barrel char. A persistent wood note, which I perceive as more like bitter sandalwood than oak, remains after everything else fades. The texture is full-bodied and unctuous. An absolutely superb ECBP release. It narrowly missed a perfect score due to being slightly too hot, but this is a very minor flaw. At the $79.99 I paid, it's an absolute steal; if you find it at that price, buy two and thank me later.