I was able to pick up a bottle of the latest batch of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof at Hokus Pokus for $72, batch B522. Meanwhile, I just recently finished off the Hokus Barrel pick and am glad to have a replacement. This is twelve years old and is 121 proof.

Color is a very deep dark amber reflecting its age and proof. Beautiful thick legs and film on the swirl. Traditional bourbon nose with heavy emphasis on vanilla, caramel, and some oak tannin. On the palate the vanilla and light caramel comes first but then is replaced by candied cherries, black pepper, clove, and cinnamon roll. On the finish, the clove really intensifies and fades into oak tannin. Really lingering finish. Compared to other recent Elijah Craig Barrel Proof releases I have tried, this one I would describe as clove and oak forward by comparison, and for that reason is really really good.