Barrell Vantage Bourbon Whiskey 114.44 Proof

Barrell Vantage Bourbon Whiskey 114.44 Proof is Barrell Craft Spirits’ ongoing oak bourbon, bottled at 114.44 proof. Straight bourbons from Indiana, Tennessee, and Kentucky are finished separately in three virgin woods — Mizunara, French oak, and toasted American oak — then married. Toasted American oak reads as crème brûlée and coconut. French oak adds dry spice, tarragon, and a maple sweetness. Mizunara pulls in incense and a little grilled pineapple. Whisky Advocate ranked it No. 3 on its Top 20 Whiskies of 2022. It is a standing release, built to stay consistent.

The palate is sweet and oily, with espresso up front and enough richness that the wood stays integrated. Peach, fig, and crème brûlée sit with nutmeg and coconut, and the mouthfeel is buttery. The finish lifts into green grape and red plum, with crystallized ginger, vanilla cream, and a peppery spice that lingers.