Review #714; Bourbon #159: Barrell Armida Batch #1

This is a blend finished bourbons that comes to us by way of American Independent bottler Barrell Craft Spirits. Much in the vein of their Dovetail and Seagrass releases, Armida is a blend of American Bourbons finished in a variety of casks that are then blended together after finishing. Armida’s blend consists of Bourbon Finished in Pear Brandy, Jamaican Rum, and Sicilian Amaro casks. Let’s see how these oddball (in bourbon) casks affected the flavor.

ABV: 56.05%

Nose: Nuttiness, Blackberry, Orange Peel, Tobacco Leaf, Cinnamon, Black Tea, espresso

Palate: Medium oily mouthfeel, Earl Grey Tea, Nuttiness, Tobacco Leaf, Espresso, orange peel, pear skin

Finish: Medium length finish, Orange Peel, Earl Grey Tea, Nuttiness, Tobacco Leaf, Orange Zest, Pear Skin

Rating: 7/10

This is a great American Whiskey. The finising really brings out a lot of notes you would not get in your standard bourbon product and that backbone bourbon helps to tie it all together. Strong bitter notes combined with spices and fruits make for a compelling and delicious drink. This is one that people should have on their shelves to stump their palates much like Seagrass.

1 | Disgusting | So bad I poured it out.

2 | Poor | I wouldn’t consume by choice.

3 | Bad | Multiple flaws.

4 | Sub-par | Not bad, but better exists.

5 | Good | Good, just fine.

6 | Very Good | A cut above.

7 | Great | Well above average

8 | Excellent | Really quite exceptional.

9 | Incredible | An all time favorite

10 | Perfect | Perfect