For these pondering the launch of the Stellum whiskey line in 2021 would mark a extra wallet-friendly flip for Barrell Craft Spirits, the corporate put that concept to mattress with a coinciding transfer method up-market within the type of new Gold Label and Grey Label releases. Whereas we’ve solely but seen a Gold Label Bourbon, the Grey Label line has already supplied a bourbon and whiskey in addition to a premium model of the Seagrass mix. Subsequent up: Grey Label Dovetail. Like commonplace Dovetail, this mix has been completed in a mixture of rum, port, and Dunn Vineyards Cabernet barrels, however to earn Grey Label standing, these element whiskeys have to be “older” and “rarer.” How outdated and the way uncommon stays a little bit of a thriller, as that is the primary Grey Label launch with out an age assertion, however Barrell does inform us there are whiskeys as much as 20 years outdated inside this bottle. I’m a fan of traditional Dovetail, so let’s see how its fancy older brother stacks up.
It is a very completely different aroma than the unique. It’s initially fairly fruity and floral, showcasing a brilliant acidity and notes of inexperienced apple and unripe pear, grape skins and white flowers. Because it opens within the glass, a savory, nearly creamy, factor develops with notes of toasted sesame, pecan shells, and brown butter that ultimately affords up extra acquainted, if refined, toffee and baking spice. The palate reveals among the hallmarks of the traditional however extra elegant and well-structured. Issues kick off with rum-inspired brûléed sugars, grilled pineapple, and coconut cake earlier than advancing to a layered mid-palate of currants, blackberry cobbler, clove, and anise. It’s lush and surprisingly approachable till a burly end of black pepper, ginger, and barrel char. A fairly completely different Barrell expression, however one that also hits all of the excessive notes.
131.54 proof.
A- / $250 / barrellbourbon.com
Barrell Grey Label Dovetail
$250
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