TPS PRIVATE BARRELS

Knob Creek TPS Barrel #1726 ($34.99) – Here’s a big, rich, oily barrel of Bourbon. Heather and Tiernan chose this pick for its richness and depth, but also the fact that it’s not a heat monster. Add a little ice and sip it neat on a cold winter day.

Woodford Reserve Double Oaked #1425 ($57.99) – Woodford has officially suspended its Private Barrel Program ☹. However, this is the first of our last three Double Oaked Private Barrels we were able to sneak in! It’s a particularly delightful bourbon; full bodied, rich caramel and brulee flavors abound, it’s oh so smooth going down and the finish just keeps on going.

Four Roses OBSF #81-15 ($59.99) – Five of us went down to Four Roses to taste ten barrels blind (meaning we didn’t know ages, recipes, or warehouse locations for any of the barrels prior to tasting). This was the last barrel we tried, and after we did, all of our eyes locked, there was a soft glow of sunlight that filled the room, and somewhere in the distance an other-worldly choir sang joyfully. Maybe that’s an exaggeration, but we did agree unanimously that this barrel was going home with us. It’s 11 years 6 months old, 104 proof at full cask strength, and atypical for an OB (read high rye) recipe. This is a light, elegant, and floral bottle with a lot of finesse and grace.

While we’re waiting for our next round of barrels to show up, we thought you might enjoy these pics from our recent visit to Jim Beam.