Elijah Craig Barrel Proof B525: Key Details
- Distillery: Heaven Hill, Bardstown, Kentucky
- Mashbill: 78% corn, 10% rye, 12% malted barley
- Proof: 126.2 (63.1% ABV)
- Age: Minimum 11 years, 6 months (youngest whiskey in the blend)
- Release Date: May 2025
- MSRP: $75
- Availability: Nationwide, limited release
Flavor Profile
- Nose: Toasted oak, dried dark fruits
- Palate: Butterscotch, dark chocolate
- Finish: Peppery spice, orange marmalade, warm honey
Production Notes
- Uncut and non-chill-filtered to preserve natural esters and flavors
- Second of three annual releases (January, May, September)
- Overseen by Master Distiller Conor O’Driscoll
A Shift in Age Statements
For years, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof was known for its consistent 12-year age statement, a hallmark that made it a standout value in the world of high-proof bourbon. However, in 2023, Heaven Hill made a controversial decision to drop the fixed 12-year age statement, opting instead for batch-specific age statements. This change sparked concern among fans, who worried it might signal a shift to younger whiskey to cut costs. But Heaven Hill insisted the move was about flexibility, allowing blenders to craft unique flavor profiles by selecting barrels of varying ages.
Batch B525 proves the distillery’s commitment to keeping the “extra-aged” character that defines Elijah Craig Barrel Proof. At 11 years and 6 months, it’s nearly a year older than the January 2025 release (Batch A125) and the oldest since September 2023. The age statement reflects the youngest whiskey in the blend, meaning some barrels could be even older, adding depth and complexity. The oldest Barrel Proof release to date was Batch C923, aged 13 years and 7 months, showing that Heaven Hill isn’t afraid to push the upper limits when the barrels are right.
What Does B525 Taste Like?
While some reviews of B525 are still pending, Heaven Hill’s Master Distiller Conor O’Driscoll has shared insights into its flavor profile. The nose opens with inviting aromas of toasted oak and dried dark fruits, setting the stage for a rich sipping experience. On the palate, expect a wave of butterscotch and dark chocolate, flavors that balance sweetness with depth. The finish is where B525 shines, delivering a warm, lingering mix of peppery spice, orange marmalade, and honey. This combination of bold, sweet, and spicy notes makes B525 a versatile bourbon, perfect for sipping slowly or mixing into a high-proof cocktail.
The uncut, non-chill-filtered nature of B525 enhances its complexity, preserving the natural esters and taste components that can be lost in more processed whiskeys. At 126.2 proof, it’s strong but not overwhelming, falling in line with releases like Booker’s, which are known for their drinkability despite high ABV. For those new to barrel-proof bourbon, a few drops of water or a cube of ice can tame the heat while unlocking additional flavors.
Availability and Value
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof releases are highly sought after, and B525 is no exception. Available nationwide starting in May 2025, it carries a suggested retail price of $75—a steal for a bourbon of this age and proof. However, its popularity means bottles often sell out quickly, especially at or near MSRP. Bourbon enthusiasts are advised to act fast, as previous batches have been known to disappear from shelves within days. For those who miss out, secondary markets and online retailers like Total Wine may offer previous batches, though prices can vary.
The $75 price point is a key reason why Elijah Craig Barrel Proof remains one of the best values in bourbon. Compared to other barrel-proof offerings, which can easily exceed $100, B525 delivers premium quality without breaking the bank. Its combination of age, proof, and flavor makes it a bottle that appeals to both collectors and casual drinkers.
The Bigger Picture
Batch B525 arrives at a time when Heaven Hill is making waves with other releases, including the Spring 2025 Old Fitzgerald Bottled in Bond and the new Grain to Glass Bourbon. But Elijah Craig Barrel Proof continues to hold a special place in the distillery’s portfolio, thanks to its bold character and loyal following. The decision to vary age statements has allowed Heaven Hill to experiment with flavor while maintaining the high standards fans expect. While some still miss the guaranteed 12-year age statement, releases like B525 show that the distillery is committed to delivering exceptional whiskey.
For bourbon hunters, B525 is a chance to snag a bottle that balances power and approachability. Its 11-year, 6-month age statement, 126.2 proof, and rich flavor profile make it a standout in the 2025 lineup. Whether you’re a longtime Elijah Craig fan or new to barrel-proof bourbon, this release is worth seeking out. Just don’t wait too long—bottles this good don’t stick around.
In a world where high-proof, well-aged bourbon is increasingly hard to find at a fair price, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof B525 is a reminder of why this brand remains a fan favorite. Grab a bottle, pour a glass, and savor the bold, unfiltered taste of Kentucky craftsmanship.
