Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon Batch B518

Super hot yet immensely flavorful.

I see they now have an entry for the B518 so I'm 'duping' this from the generic Barrel Proof entry. Still one of the better bargains out there. Along with Eagle Rare, McKenna's 10 yr BIB, even the Small Batch EC, all are outstanding values which deliver well above their price. At the price, this is very good. It's what I would reach for when a "good stiff drink" is needed. But Bourbons like this I would generally not drink too much of at any one time. Maybe a finger or two...okay, two! I do the same with 3 various Booker's Batches, all very high ABV. The finish will continue to dry your tongue like it's been left out in the Sun at the beach. Drinking it neat, I get two distinct spice burns at different times, one well after the swallow. Definitely agree with @PBMichiganWolverine about the water/ice. That tames this beast and allows for a different experience. Not saying which is the better. Just depends on the mood. The strength, the burn, the sweet without saccharine, in short, the wonderful bourbon-ness of these liquors allows me to enjoy them without needing too much and also allows me to nurse these suckers 'til the cows come home. Thanks to the many posters on this whiskey, especially @PBMichiganWolverine for stimulating my curiosity about it.

Vanilla, honey, graham crackers