Elijah Craig Single Barrel 10yr

Barrel Proof Bliss

Hey there, bourbon buddies! Today, we're diving into a bottle patiently waiting in my cabinet: Elijah Craig Single Barrel Private Barrel Barrel Proof 10-year. Yep, that’s a lot of barrels! This isn’t just any bottle; it’s a Raleigh Barrel Select #18, handpicked for its exceptional quality. If that doesn’t get you excited, I don’t know what will. Remember, every barrel select is unique, so each bottle is a new adventure. Grab a glass, and let's get sipping!

A Sip of History: Elijah Craig’s Roots

Before diving into this bourbon that’s got me weak at the knees, let’s rewind the clock a bit. Elijah Craig was a Baptist preacher back in the late 1700s; legend has it, he's the granddaddy of bourbon! The story goes that ol' Elijah accidentally discovered the magic of charring barrels, giving us that beautiful amber spirit we adore today. Whether that's true or not, telling your friends as you pour them a glass of this potent elixir is a great tale.

First Impressions: The Bottle and the Pour

Okay, let’s get to the good stuff: I have known Elijah Craig as a staple for any whiskey drinker stash, from their small batch to their coveted toasted and barrel-proof bottles. The Elijah Craig Single Barrel Barrel Proof 10-year is sure to impress someone. The bottle is an old school – sturdy, no-nonsense, and with a label that screams, “I’m not fancy, I’m just old fashion.” It’s like the bourbon equivalent of wearing a tux with a top hat. As I uncork this beauty, I’m hit with an aroma that makes me think of a bakery and a lumberjack had a baby – sweet, woody, and a hint of something spicy.

The Nose Knows: Sniffing Out the Goodness

I’m no expert, but my nose tells me this is something special. There’s a rich scent of caramel and vanilla like someone melted a crème brûlée and added a dash of cinnamon. If you sniff hard enough, you might catch a whiff of toasted oak and a hint of dark chocolate. It's the kind of smell that makes you close your eyes and smile, even if you’re pretending to know what you’re doing: just say, “Mmm, vanilla.”

First Sip: A Flavor Explosion

Here we go! As you noticed, half the bottle may be gone, but each sip is always the first sip, sort of. Holy moly, this stuff packs a punch! At barrel proof, it’s not messing around – it’s like a Kentucky hug that doesn’t let go. The initial heat gives way to a cascade of flavors: sweet, spicy, and just a bit nutty. There’s more caramel and vanilla, but now there’s also a burst of dark fruit, maybe cherries or raisins. It’s complex, like trying to solve a Rubik’s cube after a couple of glasses.

Mid-Palate Magic: Getting to Know You

After the initial fireworks, things mellow out. The flavors settle into a warm, buttery symphony. There’s a hint of toasted pecans, some rich toffee, and a smoky oakiness that lingers just the right amount. It’s like wrapping yourself in a well-worn leather jacket – familiar, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying. Perfect for sipping slowly and savoring.

The Finish: Long and Strong

The finish on this bad boy is no joke. It’s long, strong, and leaves you with a warm glow that makes you want to sit back, relax, and maybe write a blog post about it. There’s a lingering sweetness, a touch of spice, and that lovely oakiness that just won’t quit. It’s the kind of finish that makes you say, “I’ll have another, please.”

Final Thoughts: A Bourbon Worth the Hype

So there you have it, folks. Elijah Craig Single Barrel Barrel Proof 10-year is a bourbon that’s as complex as it is delicious. It’s not for the faint of heart, but if you’re up for the challenge, it’s a journey worth taking. Now, I know not everyone can get their hands on this specific Raleigh Barrel Select, but fear not! Any barrel pick of Elijah Craig or their Barrel Proof bottles will deliver. Trust me, they won’t disappoint! And guess what? Even my father-in-law, a man of few words but many bourbons, gave it his seal of approval. You really can’t go wrong with this one. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon lover or just someone who enjoys a good story with their drink, this one’s a winner.

Cheers to a dram good time! 🥃✨

The Details:

Proof: 127 • Mashbill: 78% Corn • 10% Rye • 12% Barley • Aged: 10yrs •Price: $75


Brown Water Rating Scale:

Nose: 4 • Palate: 3 • Finish: 4 • Uniqueness: 3 • Value: 3 • Overall: 3.4

This is a 5-point scale based on my own preferences. This was also tested by my father-in-law, another whiskey lover. 
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5 Whiskey Brands That Ship Straight to Your Door: Part 3