The minute the bartender said she had 21 year-old bourbon I was sold. I don’t have bourbon this old often, so I had to have it. This was my first introduction to the 21 year-old Elijah Craig and I was certainly happy to make its acquaintance. Since having a dram I have learned that this bourbon happens to be the oldest single barrel bourbon available in the world.

This 21 year-old is courtesy of Heaven Hills Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky. The distillery got its start in 1934 with its first label releasing in 1935 and it just happens to be America’s largest independent family owned/operated distillery. Elijah Craig is just one of their labels, as this distiller produces just about all kinds of spirits.

The Elijah Craig 21 year-old was introduced as a limited edition release in replacement of their sold out Elijah Craig 20 year-old. In my opinion they decided to up their game even further and I was hoping that this would translate in its taste.

Tasting

Nose: oak, sweet and spicy

Palate: cinnamon, caramel, vanilla and oak

Finish: Extremely smooth and silky

My overall assessment, I enjoyed this bourbon however it didn’t knock my socks off. I was actually expecting a lot more from this 21 year-old. It lacked to wow me and it didn’t go the distance. If you can find it and do want to invest in a bottle, it goes for about $140.

Although it disappointed me, I would certainly recommend to others, but I would not purchase a bottle for myself.

Cheers!

Note: The contents on my blog are solely my opinion. To me every palate is different! Although I may or may not like a product, I always recommend for people to try it and make up their own minds.