Armagnac, one of the worlds oldest and most characterful brandies, imparts deep complexity when used as a finishing caskinfusing bourbon with notes of dried fruit, burnt sugar, clove, and tobacco. To complement these bold, spicy-fruity characteristics, the BCS blending team carefully selected bourbon barrels that would both harmonize with and amplify the Armagnac cask influence. The result is a bourbon that is robust yet elegant, with layers of flavorsfrom dried plum and dark toffee to warm vanillaculminating in a long, lingering finish.

The aroma deftly navigates the ground shared by both bourbon and armagnac, exhibiting strawberry rhubarb pie and candied walnuts. Chocolate peanut butter cups on the palate signal a sweetness that would be liqueur-like if not kept in check by the high proof. Of course, only a splash of water is needed to push everything into decadence.

Tasting Notes:

Appearance: Deep amber.

Nose: A quick burst of pineapple belies an otherwise dark and brooding nose. Potting soil, cola, and grape soda recall the finishing casks former contents. But a generous helping of caraway, pumpernickel, ginger beer, and menthol make sure you know youre drinking bourbon. An array of dried fruits and various nuts coalesce into a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

Palate: Syrupy sweetness and bold spice are kept in check by some sandy tannin and the heat of its cask-strength. That residual sugar makes every flavor feel like a liqueur — pithy orange, hazelnut, black walnut. Tobacco and chocolate covered espresso beans mirror the darkness of the nose and almost obscure a fresh pop of watermelon.

Finish: Clove and oolong tea arent out of place in the finish of a bourbon or an Armagnac. Whats notable though is how the sticky sweetness of dried plum and pecan pie clings to the palate alongside the lingering richness of custard.

“Barrell Craft Spirits Cask Finish Series: Armagnac adds layers of depth to the base bourbon blend by utilizing finishing barrels from the worlds oldest liquor still distilled today.” – Nick Beiter, Breaking Bourbon (Well Above Average)

“Candied red berries, toffee, and vanilla ice cream on the nose. The palate is luscious, with coconut flakes, jammy blueberry and raspberry, and jalapeno peppera smooth fruity mouthfeel with plenty of oak and spice, along with generous amounts of cinnamon. Full-flavored and long on the finish, with cocoa powder and more berry sweetness. Very smooth and complex at the same time; great texture, flavors, and a resonating finish.” – David Fleming, Whisky Advocate (93 Points)