Elijah Craig Barrel Proof

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof is a premium bourbon whiskey produced by Heaven Hill Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky. It is a barrel-proof bourbon, meaning that it is bottled at the same proof as it was aged in the barrel, without any dilution or filtering. This approach allows for a bold and complex flavor profile that showcases the craftsmanship of the distillery.

History

Elijah Craig was a Baptist minister and entrepreneur who is credited with being the first to produce bourbon whiskey in the late 18th century. The Elijah Craig brand was established in 1986 by Heaven Hill Distillery, which has continued to produce high-quality bourbon whiskey under the Elijah Craig label.

Components

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof is made from a blend of grains, including 78% corn, 12% rye, and 10% malted barley. The whiskey is aged for a minimum of 8-12 years in new charred oak barrels, which imparts a rich and complex flavor profile.

Production Process

The production process for Elijah Craig Barrel Proof is carefully controlled to ensure consistency and quality. The whiskey is distilled in small batches using a combination of pot stills and column stills. The whiskey is then aged in new charred oak barrels, which are carefully selected and monitored to ensure that each barrel is filled with whiskey that meets the distillery’s high standards.

Flavor Profile

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof has a bold and complex flavor profile, with notes of:

• Oak: Strong and dominant, with notes of toasted oak and wood spices
• Vanilla: Sweet and creamy, with notes of vanilla and caramel
• Caramel: Rich and smooth, with notes of caramel and toffee
• Fruit: Ripe fruit notes, including cherries, berries, and citrus
• Spice: Warm spices, including cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves
• Tobacco: Earthy and smoky, with notes of tobacco and leather

Packaging

The bottle features a simple yet elegant design, with a black label and a cork stopper. The bottle is also adorned with a commemorative neck tag and a special edition box.

Availability and Pricing

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof is widely available in the United States and internationally. The whiskey is priced around $40-$60 per bottle, making it an affordable option for bourbon enthusiasts.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof pairs well with a variety of foods, including:

• Grilled meats: The whiskey’s bold flavor complements grilled meats like steak, chicken, and pork
• Rich desserts: The whiskey’s sweet and smooth flavor pairs well with rich desserts like cheesecake, chocolate cake, and brownies
• Cigars: The whiskey’s bold and spicy flavor complements the smoky flavor of cigars

Conclusion

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof is a premium bourbon whiskey that showcases the craftsmanship and expertise of Heaven Hill Distillery. With its bold and complex flavor profile, simple yet elegant packaging, and affordable price point, this whiskey is a must-have for bourbon enthusiasts and collectors alike.