Top Shelf Elijah Craig Barrel Proof B524 750ML

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof was introduced in 2013 and is released on an allocated basis three times per year: January, May, and September. Each release features a different proof and up until 2023, consisted of bourbon aged at least 12 years. In mid-2023, Heaven Hill announced that they would remove Elijah Craig Barrel Proof’s 12 year age statement and instead now include an age statement that will vary per release. Batch B524 is traditionally inspired and bold, starting with a robust aroma of peppery oak, cigar box, raisin, and baking spices. Heavily charred oak, tobacco, graham cracker, and caramel emerge on the palate, which tones the intensity down a notch though it remains as potent as expected for the proof. Baking spices, caramel, and aged oak define the bourbon’s long, otherwise straightforward finish.

Tasting notes: Nose Robust and assertive, the nose opens with peppery oak and cigar box, followed by dark raisin and layered baking spices. Dense and traditional in style, it sets the tone for a powerful, high-proof bourbon. Palate Full-bodied and intense, the palate is led by heavily charred oak and warm baking spices. Notes of tobacco leaf, graham cracker, and rich caramel emerge mid-palate, rounding the profile while maintaining the bourbon’s expected strength and structure. Finish Long and straightforward, the finish is defined by lingering baking spices, chewy caramel sweetness, and well-aged oak. Warming and persistent, it closes with a classic, no-frills bourbon character.