Review: Barrell Whiskey Cabernet Sauvignon & Sauternes Finish 18 Years Old

The team at Kentucky-based Barrell Bourbon (operating under the noms de plume Barrell Craft Spirits, Barrell Rum, or Barrell Whiskey, depending on the spirit in question) is famous for some unapologetically complex blends. Today’s review focuses on one such new release: Barrell Whiskey Cabernet Sauvignon & Sauternes Finish, aged 18 Years.

In this case, focusing on the complexity probably isn’t entirely fair. This one features two main components, each a blend in and of itself:

A blend of 18 year old Kentucky whiskeys finished in Cabernet Sauvignon barrels
A variety of Canadian whiskies between 23 and 25 years old, finished in Sauternes barrels

As with virtually all Barrell releases, the exact sources are undisclosed. The resulting blend is bottled at a cask strength 125.24 proof.

It’s the latest in Barrell’s Black Label Series, which the brand markets to showcase “cutting edge blending methods and techniques which set the expert blender apart.” This particular release carries a suggested retail price of right around $200, and a total of 3700 bottles will be released for sale.

Let’s see how it tastes!

Barrell Whiskey Cabernet Sauvignon & Sauternes Finish 18 Years Old Review

On a first sniff, the nose is heavy on ethanol, even a bit more than I expected for ~125 proof. It calms down quickly (though never quite leaves), revealing hefty notes of milk chocolate and marzipan. Almond extract — I’m assuming from the Canadian distillate, but it could also be influenced by the Sauternes — continues to punch through and gives a nutty undertone to virtually every other scent. Funky mashed grape, blackcurrant jam, and golden raisin round things out at this phase.

While the nose began with an initial alcohol wallop, the first sip is notably softer, with early flavors including sweet almond croissant and sparkling white grape juice. Vanilla glazed hot cross buns are up next, followed by a medley of raisins (golden, black, red) and chocolate-coated marzipan. The midpalate brings an acceleration of heat, both alcohol and spice, plus a very recognizable portion of Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s both dry and fruity on the back end, with building wood tannins that lingering almond.

The finish turns a bit sweeter, reminiscent of both fruit (Concord grape juice) and shortbread (pecan sandies). A few drops of water help pull a few of the more interesting flavors forward on the palate, particularly raisins and the aforementioned Cabernet. While I found a lot to like, it’s the rare Barrell expression that improves with a little proofing down.

125.24 proof.

B+ / $200 

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