Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon

Wow! Review is for the old label/bottle. Supposedly older than 12 years. I compared side-by-side with the new bottle and there is a difference. This version is richer, fuller, and smoother even at a higher proof. The new bottle is still delicious but I’m glad I was able to grab a couple of these before they vanish. By adding a couple drops of water to the new bottling it actually brings the flavors a bit closer to the old bottling. It still has a bit more burn even at a lower proof. Rarely do I think some water helps but side by side with the older version it helps bring it alive. The older version is more of a hug than burn. Hopefully they get the new label to be just as good in years to come, but for now, it’s just shy of the mark. 5 ⭐️ / $109 / Saratoga Wine 4.5 ⭐️ (new bottling) / $70 / No. 1 LQ

C917, 131proof. $63 after tax in northern VA. tried it neat out of a new bottle. lots of heat. added a couple small ice cubes and gave it 5 minutes to breath- much nicer. I pick up most of the notes described in the professional review, but I mostly get the spices and barrel. I like it, it's good. but I'm not wow'd. feels like something is missing, but not sure what. tried it again months later (may 2018). went with the large ice cube. very nice, mellow up front with a little burn on the back end. better experience 2nd time around.