Tastes

Orphan Barrel Barterhouse Bottle No. 18707 Classification: Kentucky Bourbon Proof: 90.2 (45.1%) Age: 20 Years Mashbill: 86% Corn, 6% Rye, 8% Malted Barley Distillery: Bernheim/Stitzel-Weller Distillery, Louisville, KY Bottled: Orphan Barrel Whiskey Distilling Co., Tullahoma, TN Price: $75 Color: Dark Copper Nose: Vanilla, leather, hint of cherry, smallest hint of coffee Palate: Smooth, burnt caramel sweetness, oak, cinnamon, char, vanilla, hint of dark cherry Finish: Medium-Long finish, dry, oak, slight tannic bitterness, smoky, hint if dark chocolate Personal Rating: 7.75/10 Notes: I really enjoyed this pour. While the oak is absolutely in the forefront of the flavor, it doesn’t overpower the drink. While it isn’t a complicated sip, it isn’t so simple that you won’t enjoy it. If I had one thing I would change, I think Barterhouse could benefit from a slightly higher proof. Perhaps the heat of around 55% alcohol would liven it up. I know some may think the Orphan Barrel project is kind of gimmicky, but I think it is a great idea. Otherwise we wouldn’t have access to solid bottles like Barterhouse. Given that the heat and spice level is low on this pour, go ahead and drink it neat. Might not be your favorite, but you would be hard pressed not to enjoy it