The first 2020 batch of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof (ECBP), one of my favorite barrel proof bourbons, hit shelves back in January. Batch A120 arrived with a bruiser of a proof – 136.6. That’s a whopping 68.3% abv!

What I appreciate about ECBP is its consistency of flavor between batches. Sure, no two batches are exactly the same, but it seems to me that ECBP does a great job of keep its character between batches.

How’s it fare? Very well, even with a splash of water. I’d certainly advise a at least a few drops of H2O with a whiskey of such high proof. Remember, it’s about enjoying the whiskey, and not about destroying the lining of your palate.

The nose carries wonderful brown sugar and molasses, cinnamon stick, and freshly baked pastry. Dark cherries lead the palate alongside wave after wave of caramelized sugar and a sprinkling of baking spices. Tobacco and slightly astringent oak appear in the back palate, a sign of the bourbon’s age. The finish is long and rich.

I’m rarely if ever disappointed in a batch of ECBP. Batch A120 is a winner for sure, living up to the dark caramel-centered nature of the bourbon. Recommended!

Thanks to Heaven Hill for the sample. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.