Barrell Craft Spirits (BCS), a trailblazer in the independent blending of aged, cask-strength whiskeys, has unveiled its latest creation: Barrell Bourbon Cask Finish Series: P.X. Sherry. This limited-edition offering adds a rich layer of complexity to their portfolio, showcasing the company’s innovative blending and finishing expertise.
A Tradition of Excellence
Since its founding in 2013, BCS has been dedicated to crafting unique whiskeys and rums that push the boundaries of flavor. Based in Louisville, Kentucky, the company has become renowned for its ability to select and blend high-quality casks, creating small-batch and single-barrel releases that consistently earn accolades from whiskey enthusiasts and industry experts alike.
Exploring the Cask Finish Series
Image credit: Barrell Craft Spirits
The P.X. Sherry expression is the latest addition to BCS’s acclaimed Cask Finish Series, which has previously featured distinctive finishes such as Amburana, A Tale of Two Islands Rum Finish, Mizunara, and Ice Wine. These releases underscore the brand's commitment to exploring innovative flavor profiles.
The Pedro Ximénez Influence
Pedro Ximénez, or P.X., is a decadent dessert wine from Spain celebrated for its intense sweetness and notes of dried fruit, chocolate, and toffee. BCS skillfully incorporated these characteristics by further maturing a blend of premium straight bourbon whiskeys in P.X. Sherry barrels.
The Whiskey Blend
Image credit: Barrell Craft Spirits
The P.X. Sherry expression represents a meticulous blending process involving bourbons from Kentucky, Indiana, and Tennessee. Specific ages include:
- Kentucky: 9- and 10-year bourbons.
- Indiana: 6-, 7-, 8-, and 12-year bourbons.
- Tennessee: 7- and 15-year bourbons.
These whiskeys were combined to create a derived mash bill of 80% corn, 16% rye, and 4% malted barley, offering a robust foundation for the finishing process.
Bottled at Cask Strength
The final product was bottled in Kentucky at an impressive cask strength of 115.52 proof (57.76% ABV), ensuring the preservation of its rich, unadulterated flavors.
Tasting Notes: A Flavor Journey
The official tasting notes describe a layered and sophisticated flavor experience:
- Nose: Aromas of a freshly opened cigar box, baked golden delicious apple, and pecan streusel blend with hints of tobacco and golden raisin.
- Palate: A lively, full-bodied profile featuring smoked Madagascar vanilla, pound cake, buttercream, and spiced baked pears. Black pepper and star anise add a kick of complexity.
- Finish: A lasting impression of buttercream frosting, baking spices, and stone fruit jam, with a splash of water enhancing notes of warm honeyed biscuits and freshly cut cedar.
Availability and Pricing
Barrell Bourbon Cask Finish Series: P.X. Sherry is now available for purchase online at barrellbourbon.com and at select retailers. The suggested retail price is $84.99 for a 750 mL bottle, reflecting its premium quality and artisanal craftsmanship.
A Brand with Global Reach
BCS products are sold in 49 U.S. states and internationally in markets including Australia, Canada, South Korea, and the UK. The brand’s consistent innovation and quality have made it a respected name in the whiskey world, appealing to both seasoned aficionados and newcomers.
Barrell Craft Spirits continues to elevate the art of whiskey blending, and the P.X. Sherry expression is a testament to their dedication to quality, creativity, and tradition. Whether enjoyed neat or with a splash of water, this release promises a memorable tasting experience for whiskey lovers.
