We're back with three incredible barrels! Bull Run has consistently pushed the envelope on American Whiskey and finishing barrels. Secondary finishes are slightly more common these days. However, secondary aged barrels are harder to find. Most finished whiskey only sits in the barrel for 3-6 months. That allows for little interaction with the wood. With a 11-12 month aging process, the whiskey is allowed to penetrate the wood and pull out some more nuanced flavor. The longer aging also allows the sweetness to mellow.
Age: 13-years
Proof: 121.56
Finish: 11-months Francois Freres Pinot Noir barrel
Source: MGP
Mash Bill: 96/4 Corn/Malted Barley
Tasting Notes:
The nose is sugar cookies and orange peel. The palate really pops. There are immediate notes honey and maple. It's rich and viscous. It's backed up with cherry syrup and plums. The finish is toasted almonds and toasted coconut.
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Age: 13-years
Proof: 126.36
Source: MGP
Barrel: 53-gallon Hungarian Oak
Mash Bill: 96/4 Corn/Malted Barley
Tasting Notes:
This is another sweet nose. There are vanilla bean ice cream, sweet oak and floral notes. it flows nicely from canned peaches to soft herbal notes. There is a hint of anise on the finish. Overall this drinks a loft softer than the age and proof would have you to believe.
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Age: 7-years
Proof: 124.34
Finish: 13-months Cazadores Resposado barrel
Source: Bull Run Distilling
Mash Bill: 65/35 Rye/Barley
Tasting Notes:
The nose is a chocolate croissant and black pepper. The taste is malty and juicy. There's an interesting melon or honeydew note. It's similar to juicy fruit gum. The finish is long. It lingers with smoke and pilsner beer.
I'll be honest, I was skeptical of this one. After tasting it, I was pretty blown away. I couldn't believe the complexities the tequila barrel added to this rye whiskey. I was expecting harsh and spice. What I got was chocolate and maltiness.
