PGA TOUR star Max Homa, celebrated not just for his skill on the golf course but also his charismatic personality, has partnered with Elijah Craig Bourbon to create an exclusive Toasted Barrel pick. Known for his sharp humor and relatable charm, Homa has also established himself as a connoisseur of fine Bourbon. Among his favorites is Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel, a rich, full-bodied whiskey he refers to as his “hands-down favorite.” This collaboration is a tribute to Homa's passion for excellence and craftsmanship, blending his love for golf and fine spirits.
Crafting a Unique Bourbon
Elijah Craig’s Toasted Barrel Bourbon starts with their renowned Small Batch Bourbon, which undergoes a second aging process in custom toasted barrels. This finishing step introduces additional layers of complexity, enriching the Bourbon’s sweet oak flavors. When the opportunity to create a private barrel pick arose, Homa enthusiastically stepped in to craft a version that reflected his own taste preferences.
“Since the beginning of my partnership with Elijah Craig, fans have been asking for a barrel pick,” said Homa, a six-time PGA TOUR winner. He added that the decision-making process was no small feat due to the high quality of each sample he tasted. Ultimately, Homa selected a Bourbon with a standout flavor profile, characterized by creamy butterscotch, vanilla, and the signature oak smokiness and spice that defines Elijah Craig's offerings.
An Exclusive Release for California Fans
The collaboration resulted in an exceptional Bourbon crafted from single barrels that were uncut and bottled at barrel proof. Homa worked alongside Elijah Craig Master Distiller Conor O’Driscoll to sample four meticulously curated barrels. His final selection was an 8-year-old Bourbon, aged on the fifth floor of Heaven Hill’s Rickhouse M and finished for an additional six months in Warehouse H1. Bottled at an impressive 126.6 proof, this exclusive offering is as bold as it is refined.
The tasting experience begins with the inviting aroma of toasted oak and sweet caramel. On the palate, the Bourbon delivers a rich medley of flavors, including chocolate and baking spices, culminating in a warm and satisfying finish. These elements perfectly capture the signature toasted character of Elijah Craig while elevating the overall depth and complexity of the drink.
This special Toasted Barrel pick will be available only to residents of Homa's home state of California, offering fans a unique opportunity to taste a Bourbon hand-selected by one of golf's brightest stars. Enthusiasts can sign up on the Elijah Craig website to receive an exclusive email notification when the product becomes available for purchase. However, availability is limited, and purchases will be made on a first-come, first-served basis.
Elijah Craig: A Legacy of Bourbon Excellence
Elijah Craig Bourbon is steeped in history, named after Reverend Elijah Craig, often hailed as "The Father of Bourbon." The distiller is credited with pioneering the use of charred oak barrels, transforming unaged corn liquor into the bold, amber spirit known as Bourbon today. Established in 1789, Elijah Craig has continued to set standards for quality and innovation in the world of whiskey.
Produced by Heaven Hill Distillery, Elijah Craig's lineup includes a variety of celebrated offerings such as Small Batch Bourbon, Toasted Barrel Bourbon, Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, and Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Since its launch in 1986, the brand has earned numerous accolades, including "Whisky of the Year" from Whisky Advocate and multiple honors at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
A Toast to Collaboration
Max Homa’s exclusive Toasted Barrel pick is more than just a collaboration; it’s a reflection of shared values between a masterful athlete and a legendary distillery. Combining Homa's personal touch with Elijah Craig’s tradition of excellence, this limited-release Bourbon is sure to delight fans of both golf and fine spirits.
For California residents eager to secure a bottle, signing up on the Elijah Craig website is the first step to experiencing this remarkable creation. With its rich flavor and unmistakable quality, Max Homa’s Toasted Barrel pick stands as a testament to the art of collaboration and the pursuit of perfection.
