Frequently Asked Questions
Barrell Craft Spirits Vantage Bourbon is an innovative blend of straight bourbons, meticulously finished in three distinct types of virgin oak casks: Mizunara, French, and toasted American oak. This award-winning cask-strength bourbon, bottled at an impressive 114.44 proof, masterfully combines the rich characteristics of each wood type, delivering a multidimensional flavor profile. Its nose offers inviting aromas of cinnamon, orange, and crème brûlée, while the palate delights with a smooth, oily texture and complex notes of ginger, pineapple, fig, nutmeg, and coconut. Expertly crafted through years of experimentation and blending expertise, Vantage is a testament to the harmonious interplay between bourbon and oak, creating an elegant, balanced spirit perfect for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
#3 Whiskey of 2022 by *Whiskey Advocate*. This cask-strength bourbon (114.44 proof) explores new dimensions of flavor by integrating the essence of three distinctive virgin oak casks: Mizunara, French, and Toasted American oak.Process & Profile
Barrell Vantage is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship. This blend brings together straight bourbons sourced from Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee. Each bourbon is finished separately in three premium oak barrels—Mizunara from Japan (offering subtle spice and incense-like qualities), French oak (imparting robust spice and creaminess), and Toasted American oak (delivering caramelized richness). Using varied char and toast levels, Barrell Craft Spirits creates a multidimensional bourbon with layers of complexity. The process is driven by a mix of scientific precision, innovative experimentation, and decades of experience.Tasting Notes
Nose: The nose opens with inviting notes of warm caramel, toasted coconut, and crème brûlée. Fruity aromas of orange peel, apricot, and grilled pineapple intermingle with soft chocolate and nutmeg spice, providing balance and intrigue. Palate: The palate is rich and buttery with flavors of toffee, fig, cinnamon, and roasted nuts. Spicy undertones from the French oak add warmth, while Mizunara's exotic incense qualities and citrus notes bring subtle elegance. The creamy texture coats the mouth beautifully, evoking notes of maple syrup and espresso. Finish: The long finish is both vibrant and smooth, with lingering hints of sweet vanilla cream, nutmeg, and a gentle oak char. Fruity bursts of apricot and red plum elevate the complexity, leaving a pleasantly spicy and warming sensation.What Makes It Special
- Triple-Oak Finishing: The use of Mizunara, French, and Toasted American oak creates a unique interplay of bold and delicate flavors.
- Cask Strength: Bottled at 114.44 proof, this bourbon maintains its unadulterated character and intensity.
- Blend Expertise: The result of years of experimentation, this blend represents Barrell Craft Spirits' dedication to pushing the boundaries of bourbon flavor profiles.
- Award-Winning Recognition: Named one of the best whiskeys of 2022, Vantage has quickly become a standout in the whiskey world.
How to Enjoy
- Neat: Sip this bourbon straight to appreciate its full complexity and depth of character.
- With Water: A few drops of water can unlock additional layers of aroma and flavor, enhancing the tasting experience.
- On the Rocks: Slight dilution mellows the intensity, offering a more approachable drink while retaining its distinctive character.
- Cocktail Accent: While exquisite on its own, Vantage Bourbon's bold profile can also elevate premium bourbon-based cocktails.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Barrell Vantage Bourbon?
Barrell Vantage is a blend of straight bourbons finished in three types of virgin oak casks: Mizunara oak, French oak, and toasted American oak. This unique finishing process creates a multidimensional bourbon that emphasizes the distinct characteristics of each wood type, resulting in a rich, balanced flavor profile.
Where is Barrell Vantage Bourbon made?
The bourbons used in Barrell Vantage are distilled in Indiana, Tennessee, and Kentucky, but they are crafted and bottled in Kentucky at cask strength.
What is the proof and alcohol content of Barrell Vantage?
Barrell Vantage is bottled at cask strength with a proof of 114.44, which is equivalent to 57.22% alcohol by volume (ABV).
What flavors and aromas can I expect from Barrell Vantage?
The bourbon offers a complex flavor profile with notes of toffee, oak, and cedar, enhanced by layers of sweetness such as table syrup, fruit juices, and baking spices. Subtle flavors like apricots and coconut add depth, while the finish is rich and creamy with lingering wood and spice notes.
What makes Mizunara oak special in the production of Barrell Vantage?
Mizunara oak, native to Japan, is known for being one of the rarest and most expensive types of wood used in barrels. It imparts unique flavors like sandalwood, spice, and aromatic incense. This wood requires extensive aging (over 200 years) before harvesting, making it a luxurious addition to Barrell Vantage.
Is Barrell Vantage Bourbon chill-filtered?
No, Barrell Vantage is non-chill filtered, which helps to preserve its rich, oily mouthfeel and the full range of flavors present in the bourbon.
How much does Barrell Vantage Bourbon cost?
The suggested retail price for a 750ml bottle of Barrell Vantage is $89.99, though prices may vary depending on the retailer.
What sets Barrell Vantage apart from traditional bourbons?
Barrell Vantage focuses on showcasing the interplay between bourbon and its finishing barrels. By using three virgin oak casks with distinct characteristics, it achieves a refined balance of flavors that go beyond typical bourbon profiles. Its cask strength bottling further enhances the intensity and complexity of the bourbon.
How should Barrell Vantage be enjoyed?
Barrell Vantage can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as the base for premium cocktails. Its rich, layered flavors make it a versatile choice for both casual sipping and sophisticated pairings.
Is Barrell Vantage a limited release?
Barrell Vantage is an ongoing release from Barrell Craft Spirits, making it more accessible than some of their limited-edition offerings. However, availability may still vary by region and retailer.
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