Frequently Asked Questions
Barrell Craft Spirits Armida Bourbon Whiskey redefines innovation in whiskey blending with its meticulously crafted blend of three straight bourbons, each uniquely finished in pear brandy, Jamaican rum, and Sicilian amaro casks. Bottled at cask strength with a proof of 112.10, this award-winning bourbon showcases a symphony of flavors, from ripe pear and tropical sweetness to spiced citrus and seasoned oak, creating a lush and multidimensional drinking experience. Limited to only 3,700 bottles per release, Armida has earned accolades such as Platinum at the L.A. Spirits Awards and a 95-point rating from *Wine Enthusiast*, making it a must-try for bourbon connoisseurs seeking a bold and complex palate journey.
Process & Profile
Barrell Craft Spirits Armida is a cutting-edge creation from Barrell Craft Spirits, known for its bold and masterful blending techniques. Armida is a cask-strength bourbon whiskey, bottled at 112.1 proof, that redefines bourbon innovation. This expression is a blend of three straight bourbons, each meticulously finished in Pear Brandy, Jamaican Rum, and Sicilian Amaro casks. This unique three-cask finishing process highlights the company's commitment to pushing the boundaries of what bourbon can be. The result is a whiskey that presents unrivaled depth, complexity, and surprising flavor combinations.Tasting Notes
Barrell Armida Bourbon offers a vivid and evolving tasting experience:- Nose: The aroma is crisp and enticing with a bouquet of freshly picked pear, citrus, and aromatic vanilla, complemented by floral notes and traces of cinnamon raisin bread.
- Palate: The whiskey transitions into richer notes of sweet molasses, baking spices, orchard fruits, and a hint of herbal and licorice flavors from the Amaro casks. Layers of tropical sweetness from the rum finish and the spice-forward nuances create a dynamic and rewarding flavor profile.
- Finish: The long, warming finish is defined by roasted pear, dried fruits, subtle savory herbs, and a lingering touch of mint, with just a hint of dry bitterness akin to crushed stone or graphite.
What Makes It Special
Armida stands out as a crowning achievement in whiskey blending, incorporating an unconventional mix of influences. The finishing in three different casks (Pear Brandy, Jamaican Rum, and Sicilian Amaro) adds rare complexity, seamlessly integrating sweetness, herbal depth, and tropical warmth. Each sip is a testament to Barrell's experimental spirit, as Armida ventures into uncharted flavor territory while maintaining a harmonious balance. With only 3,700 bottles produced, this small-batch release carries a sense of exclusivity and craftmanship that appeals to collectors and connoisseurs alike. The whiskey is named after founder Joe Beatrice's mother, adding a personal touch to its story.How to Enjoy
Savoring Armida is best done with intentionality:- Neat: Appreciate the intricacies of its flavor by enjoying it neat in a Glencairn glass, where the aroma and nuanced flavors can fully unfurl.
- With Water or Ice: Add a splash of water or a single ice cube to reveal hidden layers of flavor and soften its cask strength intensity.
- Cocktails: For adventurous mixologists, Armida pairs beautifully in bold cocktails like a Boulevardier, where its herbal and fruity notes shine against bitters and vermouth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Barrell Armida Bourbon Whiskey?
Barrell Armida is a blend of three straight bourbon whiskeys sourced from Tennessee and finished separately in pear brandy, Jamaican rum, and Sicilian amaro casks. It is bottled at cask strength, showcasing a unique and multidimensional flavor profile with proof variations between releases.
What makes Barrell Armida unique among bourbons?
Unlike traditional bourbons, Barrell Armida stands out due to its triple cask finish. Each bourbon in the blend is aged separately in pear brandy, Jamaican rum, and Sicilian amaro casks. This combination creates an intriguing mix of fruity, spicy, and herbal flavors that challenge conventional bourbon expectations.
What does Barrell Armida taste like?
Barrell Armida offers a dynamic flavor experience. Expect ripe pear, floral hints, dark fruits, and sweet molasses on the palate, alongside baking spices and anise. Its long finish is characterized by seasoned oak, dried fruit, and a touch of bitterness. Adding water can enhance sweetness, revealing maple sugar candy notes.
What is the proof and alcohol content of Barrell Armida?
Barrell Armida is bottled at cask strength, with proof levels around 112.1 (56.77% ABV), though this may vary slightly between batches.
Who makes Barrell Armida Bourbon Whiskey?
Barrell Armida is produced by Barrell Craft Spirits, an independent blender and bottler based in Louisville, Kentucky. Barrell sources aged bourbon from various distilleries and uses innovative blending and finishing techniques to create unique expressions like Armida.
What pairing suggestions work well with Barrell Armida?
Due to its complex flavor profile, Barrell Armida pairs well with foods that balance its fruity and spicy notes. Consider pairing it with desserts like pear tart, spiced cakes, or dark chocolate, as well as savory dishes with bold, zesty flavors.
How should Barrell Armida be enjoyed?
Barrell Armida can be sipped neat, with a splash of water, or over ice to mellow its intensity. Its unique profile also makes it suitable for high-proof bourbon cocktails that benefit from fruity and spicy undertones.
Is Barrell Armida a limited release?
Yes, Barrell Armida is a limited-release bourbon. With only 3,700 bottles in its initial launch, it remains a small-batch, exclusive offering. Once a batch is sold out, it cannot be replicated, making it a collectible choice for enthusiasts.
What awards has Barrell Armida won?
Barrell Armida has received numerous accolades, including Platinum at the 2022 L.A. Spirits Awards and a 95-point rating from Wine Enthusiast. It has also been recognized on "best whiskey" lists by Maxim, Robb Report, and more.
Is Barrell Armida worth the price?
With an MSRP of around $90, Barrell Armida is considered a premium bourbon. Its rare cask finishes, bold experimentation, and critical acclaim make it a worthwhile choice for adventurous whiskey lovers and collectors.
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