Barrell Craft Spirits (BCS), a well-known independent whiskey blender, has introduced the latest addition to its innovative Barrell Bourbon Cask Finish Series: Ice Wine Finished Bourbon. This new release, which marks the fourth in the Cask Finish Series, continues BCS’s tradition of combining expert blending techniques with unique barrel finishes, showcasing the company's commitment to creating distinct and creative whiskey expressions.
A Unique Blend of Aged Bourbons
The Ice Wine Finished Bourbon is a blend of various bourbons sourced from four states: Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Wyoming. The blend is composed of bourbons ranging in age from 5 to 15 years, with each bourbon contributing its own distinct character. Specifically, the blend includes:
- Indiana: 5-, 6-, 7-, 8-, 9-, and 11-year-old bourbons
- Kentucky: 5- and 8-year-old bourbons
- Tennessee: 9- and 15-year-old bourbons
- Wyoming: 9-year-old bourbon
Each of these bourbons has been carefully selected for its unique qualities before being blended and finished in Ice Wine casks. These casks were previously used to age Ice Wine, a sweet dessert wine made from grapes that have frozen while still on the vine, resulting in concentrated sugars and a rich, sweet flavor profile. The result of this final maturation process is a bourbon with a complex, multi-layered flavor that stands out among traditional bourbon offerings.
The Craft Behind the Bourbon
Barrell Craft Spirits is known for its focus on blending high-quality whiskey, drawing from a variety of sources and distillation methods to create truly unique products. Founded in 2013 in Louisville, Kentucky, BCS has built its reputation by experimenting with different aging environments, barrels, and finishing processes. This experimental, creative approach has led to the development of several notable releases over the years, including previous Cask Finish Series expressions that featured finishes in Amburana wood, Rum, and Mizunara oak casks.
The Ice Wine Finished Bourbon is bottled at cask strength, meaning it is uncut and straight from the barrel without dilution. At 106.52 proof, this bourbon offers a robust drinking experience that preserves the rich flavors imparted during the blending and finishing process.
Mashbill and Tasting Notes
The mashbill of this bourbon is 71% corn, 24% rye, 4% malted barley, and 1% wheat. This combination results in a spirit with a smooth yet complex profile, balancing the sweetness of corn with the spiciness of rye. The addition of malted barley and wheat adds depth and texture to the overall flavor.
According to BCS, the tasting notes for this release include bright and complex flavors with a rich body. Drinkers can expect to taste notes of stone fruit and white chocolate, likely influenced by the Ice Wine cask finish, which adds a touch of sweetness and acidity to the bourbon. This blend of flavors creates a well-rounded drinking experience that is both approachable for casual bourbon fans and intriguing for connoisseurs seeking something out of the ordinary.
The Art of Ice Wine
The choice to finish this bourbon in Ice Wine casks is a nod to the meticulous craftsmanship required to make both Ice Wine and exceptional bourbon. Ice Wine is typically produced in cold climates, where grapes are left to freeze naturally on the vine. Once harvested, these frozen grapes produce a highly concentrated juice with intense sweetness, which is then fermented into a sweet, rich dessert wine.
Similarly, Barrell Craft Spirits takes a careful and deliberate approach to blending and finishing its whiskeys. The selection of barrels, mashbills, and ages is done with precision to ensure that each component of the blend contributes to the final product’s complexity. In the case of the Ice Wine Finished Bourbon, the sweetness and lively acidity of the Ice Wine complement the bold, rich flavors of the bourbon, resulting in a harmonious balance.
Availability and Pricing
Barrell Craft Spirits’ Ice Wine Finished Bourbon is now available for purchase both online through the BCS website and at select retailers. This limited-edition release is priced at a suggested retail price of $89.99 for a 750ml bottle. As with previous releases in the Cask Finish Series, the Ice Wine Finished Bourbon is expected to attract attention from whiskey enthusiasts eager to try something new and exciting.
A Tradition of Innovation
The release of the Ice Wine Finished Bourbon continues Barrell Craft Spirits’ tradition of pushing the boundaries of whiskey blending and finishing. By experimenting with various cask types and blending techniques, BCS has established itself as a leader in the craft whiskey movement, offering consumers a wide range of unique and expertly crafted bourbons.
Previous releases in the Cask Finish Series have included bourbons finished in Amburana casks (a type of Brazilian hardwood known for its distinctive spicy and floral notes), Rum casks (which add sweetness and tropical flavors), and Mizunara oak casks (a rare and prized Japanese wood that imparts delicate floral and fruity notes). The addition of the Ice Wine finish to this series demonstrates BCS’s continued commitment to exploring new and innovative ways to enhance the flavors of its whiskeys.
Final Thoughts
Barrell Craft Spirits’ Ice Wine Finished Bourbon is a standout release that showcases the brand’s expertise in blending and finishing whiskeys. With its unique combination of aged bourbons and a final maturation in Ice Wine casks, this limited-edition bourbon offers a distinctive and memorable drinking experience. Whether enjoyed by seasoned whiskey enthusiasts or those new to bourbon, the Ice Wine Finished Bourbon is a testament to the creativity and craftsmanship that defines Barrell Craft Spirits.
At $89.99, this bourbon is an accessible way to experience the artistry behind Barrell Craft Spirits' blending techniques, making it a must-try for anyone interested in exploring the intersection of bourbon and wine cask finishes.
About Barrell Craft Spirits
Barrell Craft Spirits is a relatively young and dynamic independent bottler and blender that has gained significant attention in the world of American whiskey. Established in 2013 by Joe Beatrice, Barrell Craft Spirits is known for its commitment to producing unique and high-quality whiskey expressions through meticulous blending and sourcing.
One of the distinguishing features of Barrell Craft Spirits is its dedication to small-batch and limited-edition releases. Rather than having a consistent core range, the brand regularly introduces new and innovative expressions, allowing whiskey enthusiasts to explore a diverse range of flavor profiles. Each release is carefully crafted by selecting and blending barrels from various distilleries and regions, showcasing the art of blending in American whiskey.
Barrell Craft Spirits is transparent about the sourcing of its whiskies, providing detailed information about the age, mash bill, and origin of the barrels used in each release. The brand's philosophy revolves around pushing the boundaries of traditional whiskey-making, experimenting with different aging techniques, and curating exceptional flavor experiences for its consumers.
The flavor profiles of Barrell Craft Spirits whiskies are often characterized by complexity, depth, and a balance of sweet, spicy, and oaky notes. The brand's commitment to quality has earned it a strong reputation among whiskey connoisseurs, and its releases frequently receive acclaim and awards within the industry.
In addition to bourbon, Barrell Craft Spirits has expanded its portfolio to include other spirits such as rye whiskey, rum, and other unique blends. The brand's continuous exploration and innovation in the world of spirits make it a notable player in the craft distilling scene.