Batch C917. 65.5%. I'd heard the hype for quite some time, so I decided to finally take the plunge and shell out for this one. This will be the first of a short string of bourbon reviews, and I've got to say this one is my favorite by a decent amount (also by far the most expensive). I often read comments where reviewers suggest that a particular whiskey is almost there, and that a cask strength release would put it over the top. Heaven Hill ensures that one will never say such a thing about Elijah Craig, with this Barrel Proof taking what is a pretty decent entry level bourbon and bringing it to its full potential. Nose: The nose makes itself known immediately. Caramel, vanilla, crisp red apple, cinnamon, black pepper, and a heavy oak presence. Clove and nutmeg. Black cherry. Almond and walnut. Also a big leather note, like a baseball glove. Enough complexity to mask most of the ethanol. Very nice start. Palate: The oak is presence is even more prominent than it was on the nose. Nice barrel char. Caramel, vanilla, and cola are the most prominent. Nutmeg, brown sugar, and cocoa are also there. It's mostly sweet, but there is some black pepper and cinnamon spice. Done to perfection, and astoundingly drinkable without water at 131 proof. Finish: Long finish that comes in waves. Not all that hot. I'll call it a warming finish. Definitely cinnamon and black pepper, but there are sweeter chocolate and cola. Amazing from start to finish. This is my first batch of ECBP, and now I'm going to be hunting down as many as I can possibly find. It's an absolutely phenomenal experience. At $90, it's an expensive buy, but worth every penny. I think that the standard EC is a respectable entry level bourbon. But at Barrel Proof, this stuff really shines. Well done on top shelf pour, Heaven Hill.