Barrell Bourbon Batch 026

Here is a detailed article on the limited‑release Barrell Bourbon Batch 026, covering its background, production, tasting profile, “People also ask” style FAQs from Google, pros & cons, and a concluding summary. If you’re considering this bourbon (especially in an import market) this will provide a full guide.

1. Brand & Release Background

Barrell Craft Spirits is a Kentucky‑based independent blender and bottler. They source barrels (from various states: Kentucky, Tennessee, Indiana) and then blend them into “batches” which are bottled at cask strength (i.e., high proof) and without added colour or flavouring. The philosophy is experimentation, blending barrels of different ages/distilleries to create distinctive expressions. (Barrell Bourbon)

Batch 026 is one of these releases in the Barrell Bourbon “batch” series.

Important release details:

• It is a blend of straight bourbon whiskeys distilled and aged in Tennessee (TN), Kentucky (KY) and Indiana (IN). (Barrell Bourbon)
• Age composition: barrels aged 9, 10, 11, 13 and 15 years were used in the blend. (Barrell Bourbon)
• It was bottled at cask strength: 112.64 proof (which is 56.32% ABV) according to some sources. (Distiller – The Liquor Expert)
• The brand describes the blending steps: first blending 9‑yr high‑rye barrels (peppery/pointed) + 10‑yr oak‑forward barrels + 11‑yr sweet/toasty barrels for mouthfeel & spice, then balancing with citrus‑forward 10‑/12‑/15‑yr barrels and spicy/floral 9‑yr high‑rye barrels, then co‑mingling the two. (Barrell Bourbon)
• The brand references tasting notes such as “a complex array of fresh, dried, and cooked fruits dominates the aroma… the finish cycles candied grapefruit peel, grape jam, cardamom and allspice … fades with a mineral tingle of iron and wood smoke.” (Barrell Bourbon)
• Awards: Batch 026 achieved multiple awards including a Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2021), Gold at ASCOT Awards, Double Gold at John Barleycorn Awards. (Barrell Bourbon)

Thus, Batch 026 is a premium, limited‑edition release that leverages advanced blending, old barrels, and high proof to deliver a strong bourbon expression.

2. Production & Specifications

Let’s dig into the technical specs and production details of Batch 026.

Sources / Distilleries

• While the exact mash bills of each component barrel are undisclosed, the blended barrels come from three states (TN, KY, IN). Many speculate some of the barrels originate from well‑known distilleries (MGP in Indiana, George Dickel / Cascade Hollow in Tennessee, etc). For example, reviewers have speculated Dickel and others. (Bourbon Culture)
• Barrell bottles are “blender/bottler” – they are not themselves the distiller of all component barrels; they assemble sourced barrels. This is part of their model.

Age & Barrel Details

• Minimum age: 9 years (the youngest barrels in the blend). (Distiller – The Liquor Expert)
• Some barrels up to 15 years old. The mix of ages (9‑15 years) allows for layering.
• Barrels: American white oak, charred new barrels (for straight bourbon specification). Standard bourbon requirement: new charred oak. The brand mentions “aged in American white oak barrels” for this batch. (Caskers)

Proof & Bottling

• 112.64 proof (56.32% ABV) according to Distiller data. (Distiller – The Liquor Expert)
• The brand page shows “cask strength” bottling for Batch 026. (Barrell Bourbon)
• Format: Standard 750 mL size (though some retailers reference 750mL). Price at release around US$80 in some markets, though resale/auction can push higher. (Reddit)

Mash Bills

• Specific mash bills are undisclosed. The use of “high­rye” barrels (for the 9‑yr high rye portion) is referenced in the brand’s blending notes. (Barrell Bourbon)

Blending Strategy

• Barrell emphasises multi‑step blending: first blend A (9‑yr high rye + 10‑yr oak + 11‑yr sweet toast), then blend B (10/12/15‑yr citrus/spice barrels), then merge A + B. This layered strategy is designed to combine diverse barrels to create something greater than the sum. (Barrell Bourbon)
• The brand states the result “dances between fruit and spice long into its finish.”

3. Tasting Profile & Characteristics

Here is an aggregated view of the aroma, palate, and finish, drawn from multiple reviews and tasting sheets.

Appearance

• Colour: Deep amber, warm mahogany tones typical of aged high‑proof bourbon. One reviewer: “Appearance: Caramel.” (The Whiskey Wash)
• In glass it shows good clarity, viscous legs, hint of richness.

Aroma / Nose

• Distiller summary: “Big, spicy whiskey at cask strength… strong notes of vanilla, brown sugar, cherry and leather.” (Distiller – The Liquor Expert)
• Additional notes from reviews:
  • Vanilla & caramel dominate, with brown sugar, apple, warm cherry. (The Daily Pour)
  • Fruit: apricot, orange candy, banana, tropical fruit under some water. (Bourbon Culture)
  • Spices: cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, nutmeg, pepper, small green mint touches. (Whisk(e)y Apostle)
  • Oak/wood: subtle char, toasted oak note in the background. Some feel the oak is prominent. (Reddit)

Palate / Taste

• Rich sweets: caramelised brown sugar, molasses, toffee, fresh apricot, honey, maple. (Distiller – The Liquor Expert)
• Fruit: dried cherry, black cherry soda, red fruit, citrus peel, grapefruit, apple. (Whisk(e)y Apostle)
• Spices: peppery high‑rye bite, allspice, cardamom, tobacco, leather, roasted notes. (Bourbon Culture)
• Oak: charred barrels influence, some dryness/tannin. Some reviewers mention it’s woody, arguably “too much oak” for certain palates.

Finish

• Medium‑long to long finish: lingering spices, oak smoke, mineral touches. Brand tasting note: “fades with a mineral tingle of iron and wood smoke.” (Barrell Bourbon)
• Some experience dryness/tannic finish:
  > “… like brownies with 78% cocoa instead of 60% … the follow‑through lacking…” (Reddit)

Overall Style & Impression

• This is a “big bourbon” profile: high proof, complex layering, fruit + spice + wood.
• It leans in the direction of dessert/fruit‑cake style whiskies rather than minimalist, lean bourbons.
• For drinkers who enjoy bold flavour, this is a strong expression; for those who prefer subtlety, the oak/wood/spice may feel forward.
• Reviewers consistently highlight the sheer volume of flavour notes, “flavour packed”. For example:
  > “The best part about Batch 026 is just how many flavors there are… the sheer volume of flavours, textures and scents really set this one on another level.” (Bourbon Culture)

4. “People Also Ask” — Common Questions & Answers

Here are many of the typical “People also ask” questions that show up on Google for this bourbon, with answers based on sources.

Q1. What is Barrell Bourbon Batch 026?

Answer:
Barrell Bourbon Batch 026 is a limited‑release bourbon from Barrell Craft Spirits, blending straight bourbons aged 9, 10, 11, 13, and 15 years from Tennessee, Kentucky and Indiana, bottled at cask strength (~112.64 proof / 56.32% ABV). (Distiller – The Liquor Expert)

Q2. What ages are included in Batch 026?

Answer:
A blend of barrels aged 9 years (youngest) up to 15 years. Specifically: 9, 10, 11, 13 and 15 years. (Barrell Bourbon)

Q3. What is the proof / ABV of Batch 026?

Answer:
The listed proof is 112.64 (56.32% ABV) according to several sources. (Distiller – The Liquor Expert)

Q4. What does Batch 026 taste like?

Answer:
Nose: vanilla, caramel, brown sugar, fruit (apricot, orange candy), spice (cardamom, ginger), oak.
Palate: molasses, black cherry soda, root beer candy, citrus peel, slate/minerality, tobacco.
Finish: candied grapefruit peel, grape jam, allspice, iron mineral tingle, wood smoke. (Barrell Bourbon)

Q5. Is Batch 026 worth buying?

Answer:
Depends on your palate, budget and availability. Strengths: high proof, age range, rich flavour, award‑winning. Weaknesses: may be pricey (import markets), heavy oak/spice may not suit all, limited availability. Many reviewers score it 8+/10 or 90+ points. For example, Bottle Raiders gave it score 93. (The Daily Pour)

Q6. Who made Batch 026 (distillery)?

Answer:
The exact distilleries and mash bills are not disclosed. The barrels were distilled in TN, KY and IN, but the brand sources and blends them. Some community speculation points to barrels from MGP (Indiana) and Dickel (Tennessee) though not officially confirmed. For example:

“This particular batch reminded me of … tropical fruit … but the leather note on the finish baffled me because I don’t ever recall one that strong…” (Reddit)

Q7. How should Batch 026 be enjoyed (neat, water, ice)?

Answer:
Because of its high proof and complexity:

• Recommended neat in a Glencairn or whiskey tumbler to appreciate aromas.
• A few drops of water may open aromas and soften spice; many reviewers note improved richness with water. (Whisk(e)y Apostle)
• Large ice cubes can be used but risk muting subtler flavours—so best to try neat first.

Q8. What is the price of Batch 026?

Answer:
At release certain U.S. retailers placed MSRP around US$80–90 for the 750 mL, though actual pricing may vary by market and markup. For example, one retailer in Australia lists AUD$230 (~USD$160) for Batch 026. (Carwyn Cellars) In import markets the landed cost may be much higher.

Q9. What awards has Batch 026 won?

Answer:
According to Barrell’s site:

• Ultimate Spirits Challenge (2021) – 92 points (Barrell Bourbon)
• San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2021) – Double Gold. (Barrell Bourbon)
• ASCOT Awards (2021) – Gold. (Barrell Bourbon)
• John Barleycorn Awards (2021) – Double Gold. (Barrell Bourbon)
  Thus it has strong critical recognition.

Q10. How rare or collectible is Batch 026?

Answer:
As a numbered batch among Barrell’s limited releases, it is somewhat collectible, particularly for enthusiasts. Forum comments indicate some collectors regret missing out. (Reddit) Availability varies by region; as time passes bottles will become harder to find.

5. Strengths & Weaknesses

Here are key pros and cons based on reviews and community feedback.

✅ Strengths

• Rich complexity: many reviewers highlight the heavy layering of fruit, spice, oak and different age components. For example: “so many flavors… set this one on another level.” (Bourbon Culture)
• Strong awards recognition.
• Good value (in some markets) for a high‑proof, multi‑age blend.
• Balanced yet bold: fruit + spice + wood.
• The “cask strength” profile appeals to enthusiasts.

⚠️ Weaknesses / Considerations

• Heavy oak/tannin: Some reviewers say “too much oak” for their preference.
• Follow‑through: some feel the finish drops off compared to the strong nose/palate. E.g., Reddit: “the follow‑through lacking … left me wanting more.” (Reddit)
• Price and rarity: In some markets the cost is high compared to alternatives; availability may be limited in certain countries.
• Not a gentle or simple bourbon; high proof and layered make it less beginner‑friendly.
• Because the sourcing is broad (multiple states/distilleries), those who prefer single‑distillery bourbons may find the “blended” nature less appealing.

6. How It Fits in a Whiskey Collection & Comparison

Fit in a collection

• For a bourbon enthusiast exploring cask‑strength blends, Batch 026 is a strong addition.
• In a collection, it stands among Barrell’s premium batches (e.g., Batch 024, 025, 027) as a “core modern statement”.
• Because of its age components and proof, it works as a “special occasion” pour rather than everyday sipping.
• For regions like Cameroon/Africa: If imported, consider whether the landed cost and duties still make it worthwhile compared to local alternatives.

Comparison with similar bourbons

• Versus “standard” bourbons (e.g., well‑known large distillery bourbon at 40–46% ABV): Batch 026 offers much more power, complexity, and age.
• Versus other limited/collectible bourbons: It competes in the space of high‑proof age‑blended releases (e.g., Elijah Craig Barrel Proof, Four Roses Limited, etc). Value and enjoyment will depend on price.
• Versus other Barrell batches: Many reviewers rate Batch 026 as among the top of the brand’s line. For example, Reddit user: “Batch 026 blew my mind and convinced me that Barrell is the real deal.” (Reddit)

7. Availability & Import/Market Considerations

For those outside the U.S., especially in Africa (e.g., Cameroon), here are key factors:

• Because it is a limited release, local stock may be scarce. If found, expect mark‑ups due to import/shipment/duty.
• Check authenticity: sealed bottle, correct batch number/label, fill level, and verify retailer reputation.
• Price comparison: If U.S. price was ~US$80–90 (at release) for 750 mL, in import markets expect significantly higher. Ask: is the cost justified relative to local pricing of other bourbons?
• Storage: Since it’s high proof and premium, store upright, cool, dark, and once opened consume in reasonable period to preserve quality.
• Serving: Because proof is high (56.32% ABV) consider smaller pours, perhaps add a few drops of water to open aroma, and share with guests who will appreciate the intensity.

8. Consumer Reactions & Community Quotes

• Reddit threads:
  

  “I actually found this on a shelf the other month! … sad I probably won’t see another.” (Reddit)
  “For me it was rather heavy on orange and cherry but none of the banana you found. … Man, oh man, there’s some oakiness that turns into cocoa here too.” (Reddit)
  “The only thing about this one is the dry oak tannins impart their taste a bit too much for me in the finish.” (Reddit)

• Reviewers:
  • WhiskeyWash: “This is rich and heavy … the journey of the mouthfeel is notable as it coats the cheeks and tongue it is springy and soft.” (The Whiskey Wash)
  • BourbonCulture: “The best part … is just how many flavors there are.” (Bourbon Culture)
  • BottleRaiders: Score 93, nose loaded with fresh apple/honey/caramel; palate “caramel apple medley… long finish plenty of spice.” (The Daily Pour)

9. Verdict & Conclusion

Summary
Barrell Bourbon Batch 026 is a standout for those who want a robust, layered, age‑blended bourbon at cask strength. With barrels aged 9–15 years from TN/KY/IN, a proof of 112.64, and a blend of high‑rye, oak‑forward and sweet barrels, it delivers fruit, spice, oak and complexity. It has earned acclaim and awards, making it a respectable choice for enthusiasts.

Who should buy it?

• Bourbon fans who appreciate high‑proof, intense flavour profiles.
• Collectors of limited releases who value age variations and blending artistry.
• Drinkers comfortable with bold spirits and sipping slowly with ice, or a little water.
• Individuals who will pay a premium price when import/duty is factored, and who will drink/serve it rather than let it sit unopened for long.

Who might pass?

• Newcomers to bourbon who prefer light/medium proof, simple profiles.
• Drinkers who dislike heavy oak/tannin or prefer subtlety.
• Buyers in markets where the price is heavily inflated — in those cases alternative bourbons may deliver better cost‑value ratio.

My personal takeaway
Batch 026 impresses with its ambition and execution: the blending is thoughtful, the flavour spectrum is wide, the proof gives substance, and the finish is long. If I had to pick a final line: If you find it at a reasonable price and you enjoy bold bourbons, Batch 026 is definitely worth a spot in your collection. But pay attention to price and your personal taste for oak/spice intensity.