Before we get into the specifics of the bourbon, if you read this website you know how much I despise the New Hampshire Liquor Commission and how the consumer is constantly screwed over and the bars are now feeling that as well. For me my dislike began with this brand, this release. The Elijah Craig Barrel Proof A124 was released in January of 2024. However here in NH it has only made it to the shelves in the past week (August). Then add to the fact that the C923 never made it to shelves at all and it is easy to see the frustration especially when the rumour mill is stating the bottles are in the warehouse and they have just been lost track of. And the B524, released this past May is not on the shelves either. Screw you NHLC!
This release marks the 34th in the series. Generally speaking the A bottles are bottled in January, B in May and C in September. Here in New Hampshire the A bottles didn’t make it to the shelves until August and the B bottles have not yet appeared. In 2023, Elijah Craig moved away from the aging being a consistent 12 years and now each release has its own age statement.
| Batch | Proof | Year |
|---|---|---|
| A124 | 119.0 (Aged 10 Years, 9 Months | 2024 |
| C923 | 133.0 (Aged 13 Years, 7 Months) | 2023 |
| B523 | 124.2 (Aged 11 Years, 5 Months) | 2023 |
| A123 | 125.6 | 2023 |
| C922 | 124.8 | 2022 |
| B522 | 121.0 | 2022 |
| A122 | 120.8 | 2022 |
| C921 | 120.2 | 2021 |
| B521 | 118.2 (Lowest Poof) | 2021 |
| A121 | 123.6 | 2021 |
| C920 | 136.6 | 2020 |
| B520 | 127.2 | 2020 |
| A120 | 136.6 | 2010 |
| C919 | 136.8 | 2019 |
| B519 | 122.2 | 2019 |
| A119 | 135.2 | 2019 |
| C918 | 131.4 | 2018 |
| B518 | 133.4 | 2018 |
| A118 | 130.6 | 2018 |
| C917 | 131.0 | 2017 |
| B517 | 124.2 | 2017 |
| A117 | 127,0 | 2017 |
| C916 | 136.0 | 2016 |
| B516 | 139.4 | 2016 |
| A116 | 138.8 | 2016 |
| C915 | 135.6 | 2015 |
| B515 | 139.8 | 2015 |
| A215 | 128.0 | 2015 |
| C914 | 140.2 (Highest Proof) | 2014 |
| B514 | 134.8 | 2014 |
| A314 | 140.2 (Highest Proof) | 2014 |
| C913 | 133.2 | 2013 |
| B713 | 137.0 | 2013 |
| A313 | 134.2 | 2013 |
Editor’s Note: If you notice an error above please contact us.
Bourbon Review: Elijah Craig Barrel Proof
ABV: 59.5% (119 Proof)
Age: 10 Years, 9 Months
Mash Bill: 78% Corn, 12% Malted Barley, 10% Rye
Distillery: Elijah Craig Distillery Co. (Heaven Hill)
Location: Bardstown, KY (USA)
The Nose: The second lowest proof Elijah Craig Barrel Proof to date has a wonderfully sweet nose with elements of a caramel coated apple and a touch of cinnamon. Letting the glass sit for a bit, a second pull from the glass reveals bosc pears, charred oak and a touch of corn. Any signs of heat are not present on the inviting aroma.
The Taste: The finish really stands out on the first sip with cherry sweetness that coats the tongue and lingers for a long time. Before you get there, notes of nutmeg, cashews, cloves and allspice are easily identifiable on the front side of the sip. Additional sips see the toning back of the cherry on the finish and the addition of brown sugar, tobacco, cinnamon and charred oak.
Conclusion: The youngest age statement to date showcases that the new policy on the Elijah Craig Barrel Proof doesn’t hurt the brand one bit. The A124 is one of the sweetest releases to date. Those who are looking for high heat from the expression might be left a bit disappointed but what you get is an incredibly complex and full flavored pour. I am still beyond angry the C923 wasn’t released in my state, but the A124 is enjoyable enough to soften the blow.
While finding this might be difficult considering the the limited nature, I would suggest buying two bottles of the A124.
Score: 94
Price: $74.99
