I’m glad I waited to review Barrell Bourbon Batch 037 until after getting past the neck pour. On my first pour a few weeks ago, I thoroughly enjoyed it, but I wasn’t in “review mode.” I was simply enjoying the experience. Now, revisiting it with a more analytical approach, I can confidently say: this release has opened up beautifully and may be the best Barrell Bourbon Batch in years.
Nose
The nose is a rich, syrupy blend of vanilla, caramel, and cream layered with a gentle spice. As it develops, a vibrant wave of mandarin orange and ripe peach emerges, creating an almost dessert-like profile. The overall experience is sultry, luxurious, and deeply inviting; think of a decadent peach creamsicle with a velvety texture. I don’t recall this level of depth and complexity from my first pour, which makes this evolution all the more impressive. Honestly, this may be one of the best nosing experiences I’ve had from a Barrell release; though don’t hold me to that.
Palate
The palate opens with a delectably creamy wave of caramel and spiced oak; an absolutely fantastic first impression. The mouthfeel is thick and oily, coating the palate with a rich, almost decadent texture. As it transitions into the mid-palate, the baking spices begin to assert themselves, gradually dialing back the initial syrupy, honeyed sweetness. From there, notes of minty rye spice emerge alongside a pleasantly drying black tea character driven by aged oak.
Interestingly, the fruit-forward notes from the nose don’t fully carry over to the palate, but this doesn’t detract from the overall experience. Instead, it creates a more structured and spice-driven profile. While I didn’t pick up Batch 036, I do own Batches 032 through 035 and Batch 026, and this stands as the best Barrell Bourbon Batch I’ve personally experienced.
Finish
The finish is the only slight drawback. While it does linger, it does so at a lower intensity than I’d prefer. That said, it still delivers a pleasant combination of dry oak, black pepper, soft mint, honey, and a subtle hint of licorice. It’s flavorful, just a bit more restrained than the rest of the experience.
Final Thoughts
Once again, Barrell showcases its exceptional blending expertise with Batch 037, a marriage of at least six different bourbons: Indiana bourbons aged 8, 11, and 12 years; a 10-year Kentucky bourbon; and Tennessee bourbons aged 13, 14, and 15 years.
At 111.38 proof, this is a dangerously easy-drinking bourbon. As it opens up, it leans slightly more sweet than dry, though the rye and baking spice backbone remains firmly in place. But the nose, wow! I keep coming back to it. It’s like a decadent dessert in a glass.
With an MSRP of $79.99, Barrell Bourbon Batch 037 is an absolute must-buy.