Richard-ModernDrinking
Barrell Whiskey American Vatted Malt June 25, 2019
Other Whiskey — (bottled in) Kentucky, USA
Reviewed
February 29, 2020 (edited September 6, 2023)
When the history of American single malt is written, this whiskey should be recognized as a milestone. Not just because it’s the first blend of its kind, but also because it marks the point at which the industry has the confidence and the supplies to craft a totem pole that says, “This is who we are.” It’s akin to that moment when Stan Lee and Jack Kirby decided to assemble Thor, Iron Man and Hulk into the Avengers and realized that there was no going back.
What Barrell has created here is a blend that as good as a Compass Box Scotch, yet distinctly American. It’s youthful and feisty without being uncouth. Let’s talk about the flavors: is there anything more American than cherry? The nose is ripe with it and it provides the backbone of the palate. It’s not an artificial candy cherry, either, but a delicious rounded one that is neither too sweet nor sour. There’s clove too, particularly on the finish, which is long and spicy and untainted by any of the feints or green notes that tarnish much of the younger craft spirits. The body is silky and fruity and drinks way below its strength. It tastes and feels sophisticated and integrated. It’s more than the sum of its parts.
If you see this offered at a bar, give it a try. Just don’t go where I did, at least not on a Friday night when 100 people are competing for the attention of two sullen servers who forget your order and then assume they can keep the significant amount of change from the bills you tendered. Whiskey, served sour.
20.0
USD
per
Pour
American Whiskey
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@PBMichiganWolverine Interesting that you go with Stranahans over St George or Deerhammer. Assuming you’re referring to the Snowflake bottle and not the original, Diamond Peak, or Sherry cask
@dubz480 @Richard-ModernDrinking totally agree. Personally for me, my top 5 Americans are Dorado as the best, then McKenzie, New Southern, Stranahan’s, and Westland all in the 2-5.
@Richard-ModernDrinking it's the best American Single Malt there is! Just ask @PBMichiganWolverine he agrees with me!
@dubz480 I must try that
Love this one as well. The Del BAC Dorado was the biggest component of it and you can definitely taste it's influence! Nice Review and cheers!
@Richard-ModernDrinking the Dovetail was one of my favorites from Barrell. I had their first batch, not sure how the latest hold up
@jonwilkinson7309 It’s a great menu and I will return when I want to try new releases (they did have Dovetail, which has been on my radar for a while), just maybe not on a Friday.
I agree with you - this is definitely a good one. I'm overdue with a review, but I want to make sure I do it justice. I enjoy American Whiskey. Not my favorite whiskey bar in Manhattan, but a great option if you're in the area and don't want to trek downtown.
@PBMichiganWolverine I had 30 mins to kill before a show at Madison Square Garden and there aren’t a lot of decent options nearby
I’m impressed ( and somewhat terrified ) that you braved American Whiskey on a Friday night, especially the few nights this past week when NJ Transit had severe delays. I like the Barrell comparison to CB. You make a good point—these guys are blending maestros. I think I have a pour of this, graciously given by @jonwilkinson7309. Will give it a try this evening