We're going to tell you right up front that everything we have tasted from Barrell Craft Spirits so far has been delicious. The Mizunara Oak Cask Finish Series we are tasting today is no exception to our expectations. It is the color of pure, unrefinded honey and the 100 mL sample bottle proves that good things come in small packages.
Barrell Craft Spirits are the leaders in blended whiskeys, producing winner after winner, often using unique mash bills and differing aged whiskey to create something that is definitely palate pleasing. The mash bill on this bottle is 76% corn, 20% rye and 4% malted barley. This "Edition 001" release is comprised of the following bourbons: Indiana - 6, 7 and 9 years old, Tennessee - 8 and 14 years old and 8 year old Kentucky bourbon. The final blend is then matured further in Mizunara (Japanese Oak) barrels, further adding to the flavors and memorable drinking experience. Mizunara Oak must be a minimum of 200 years old before it can be used for aging casks. In many cases, the trees can reach an age of 500 years.
Tasted neat, this selection presented clay earth, maple syrup, ripe strawberries, honey and leather. There is a lot going on here and we strongly encourage you to play with this by adding a drop or two of water or tasting it with a singular ice cube. It's almost insane what other aromas and flavors come to the surface with the water addition. Honey, barn wood, mint, cookie dough and herbs are dominant flavors, but that also changes with a couple of drops of water. This whiskey has a considerable finish that invites you back for another sip. Love this!
ABV: 58.21% (116.42 proof)
Distillery: Barrell Craft Spirits
Suggested retail price: $84.99
Drink The Bottles score: 94/100
