The Seelbach's Guide to Rare Character Single Barrels

 If you've ever browsed a Rare Character single barrel release, you've probably noticed that the labels seem to speak their own language. Codes like RIO, K21 and TKO aren't just random combinations of letters, they're actually a roadmap to what's inside the bottle. 

Unlike most producers, Rare Character uses an alphanumeric barrel code and a colored wax top that lets enthusiasts decode the mashbill, age, origin and expected profile before even opening the bottle. The wax color indicates the similar flavor profile, allowing drinkers to identify their preferred tastes, while the code specifies the grain composition and source. 

Part of the excitement of hunting Rare Character single barrels is knowing that no two bottles are exactly alike. Each barrel develops its own personality over time, and Rare Character's coding system helps preserve that individuality. While most labels tell you only the basics, a Rare Character label invites you to look a little closer. Once you understand the code, you can quickly recognize familiar mashbills, compare barrel types, and even begin seeking out specific expressions that match your palate.

In this guide, we'll break this all down for you and highlight the Rare Character single barrels Seelbach's has selected along the way. Consider this your go-to Rare Character decoder.

Key Barrel Codes:

At Seelbach's, we've had the privilege of selecting a wide range of Rare Character single barrels over the years, each offering its own distinct personality. From high-proof Kentucky bourbons to elegant wheated expressions and spice-forward ryes, every selection tells a different story. 

Rare Character Single Barrels We've Selected:

9-year-11-Month Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

KHR-042: Short for Kentucky High Rye

Mashbill: 60% Corn, 36% Rye, 4% Malted Barley

Distilled In: Kentucky