Barrell Bourbon batches are sourced from a number of distilleries. Sometimes the blended batch originates from one state and potentially even a single distillery, and other times the batch originates from numerous distilleries and states. This particular batch includes bourbon from three states - Tennessee, Indiana, and Kentucky. The blend includes bourbons aged 9 years and 9 months, 11 years, and 15 years. This is also the lowest proof Barrell Bourbon batch to date at 105.8 proof, with the next lowest proof bourbon batch being batch 015 at 107.6.

The bourbon is soft and delicate on the nose, with aromas of butterscotch, creme brulee, and a touch of spice adding structure. The sip enters on a sweet note, which intensifies progressively. Creme brulee and caramelized sugars depict the sweeter side, with a touch of oak on the backend. It’s slightly thin and quite drinkable. The finish is medium in length, highlighting the sweet flavors and capping the experience off tactfully.

Batch 016 isn’t a typical Barrell Bourbon. An overall balance and weight towards sweet flavors and drinkability make it quite approachable. It doesn’t have a robust flavor punch as compared with many other batches, notably lacking the spicy side Barrell Bourbons often exude. It does, however, manage to stay within what I would describe as an anticipated Barrell Bourbon flavor band. Batch 016 is a good example of the company’s mantra that each batch is unique. It showcases the balance and drinkability that experienced blenders Joe Beatrice and Tripp Stimson can achieve, while still staying true to the foundation on which the bourbon brand has been built.

‍The sample used for this review is from a production bottle and was provided at no cost courtesy of Barrell Craft Spirits. We thank them for the sample and for allowing us to review it with no strings attached.