Barrell Craft 8 Year Old "Blakely's Barrel" K&L Exclusive Single Barrel #Z4A8 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (750ml)

It seems everyone these days is shopping for the same big-name bourbons, all unattainable due to supply or pricing. But if you venture just off the path beaten by every review site touting the latest branded release from big, multinational distilleries, you can find gems like these Kentucky picks from Barrell Craft Spirits. We don't know exactly from where they sourced these, but I believe any one of them can easily go toe-to-toe with the best in a blind tasting. As you may have guessed from the description, I am particularly fond of this specific barrel and demanded we bring it in for one of our store selections. Delicate and complex with a finish that lasts for days, it has everything I want in a bourbon. Cherries, chocolate, citrus and spice achieve perfect balance, held together by burnt turbinado sugar. The focus shifts quickly from sweet to nutty to oaky and back again, with a floral character lurking like a specter in the background. It's truly gorgeous as is, but splash of water brightens the aromatics, providing lift and bringing citrus and vanilla to the forefront. The palate softens as well, broadening a bit and letting almond roca and candied citrus have their turn in the spotlight. It changes with each sip and keeps me coming back for more. I can't get enough of this stuff, and I think a lot of people out there will feel the same way. This barrel filled significantly fewer bottles than the other two, so make sure to pick this one up before supplies run out.