Elijah Craig A126 Barrel Proof Rye Review: A Powerful and Focused Pour
This is not just an outstanding whiskey, it's a terrific Kentucky-style rye on the order of the 115-proof single barrel Knob Creek beasts that roamed retailers' shelves several years ago.
BOTTLE DETAILS
- DISTILLER: Heaven Hill Distillery
- MASH BILL: 51% Rye | 35% Corn | 14% Malted Barley
- AGE: 11 years, 11 months
- YEAR: 2026
- PROOF: 120.4 (60.2% ABV)
- MSRP: $74.99
- BUY ONLINE: Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye Locator Page
STEVE'S NOTES
SHARE WITH: All rye drinkers, especially those who love 'em powerful and focused.
WORTH THE PRICE: Yes.
BOTTLE, BAR OR BUST: Bottle. You'll want want it for cocktails as and neat sipping.
OVERALL: If you haven't read my review about the first-ever Eljiah Craig Barrel Proof Rye, then I'd advise you go there first to understand why I'm so thrilled about this one. Don't assume I didn't enjoy the first iteration, because I did. What's commanding my attention here, though, is its bigger, bolder and more flavorful character, due at least in part to its higher proof.
The nose brings a surprising blend of honey, cinnamon and mint, ingredients that, if not already in a Christmas cookie recipe, should be. A brief rest shifts aromas backward in time to the mash, with cooked corn and milled rye that unify into corn pudding the quality of something you wish just one guest would someday bring to your Thanksgiving dinner. And yet it's still changing, leaning now toward breakfast sweets like cinnamon roll and brown sugar, with some charred oak sprinkled in because, well, this is aged whiskey after all!
On the palate, spice and aromatics that didn't come to the nose land squarely as vivid flavors: white pepper, flamed orange, Ghiradelli chocolate mint, brûléed sugar and a little maple syrup. Instead of the sturdy 120.4 proof being overpowering, it's warm and tingling, pleasant in every way. The finish is appropriately drying and leaves in its wake notes campfire and toasted bread notes.
I really did like the first iteration of ECBPR, but this release is what I hoped for without really knowing it. This is not just an outstanding whiskey, it's a terrific Kentucky-style rye on the order of the 115-proof single barrel Knob Creek beasts that roamed retailers' shelves several years ago. (I have one left and can't bring myself to open it ... which definitely means I should open it.) It seems as if the season for great American rye whiskies is upon us, and in the spirit of this season–one I hope never ends–be sure to get this one.
BRAND NOTES
Crafted to showcase Rye Whiskey in its purest form, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye reveals aromas of baking spices, gingerbread, and molasses, followed by a complex palate of stewed fruits and cinnamon. The finish lingers with nutmeg and a generous burst of rye spice, delivering a warm, satisfying close that reflects its extended aging and meticulous barrel selection.
Disclaimer: Bourbon & Banter received a sample of this product from the brand for review. We appreciate their willingness to allow us to review their products with no strings attached. Thank you.