Elijah Craig and the whiskies from Heaven Hill distillery that bear his name serve as a stellar introduction to their respective categories. If someone were to ask their trusted bartender what a truly classic bourbon tastes like, Elijah Craig Small Batch may very well be what their wisened hand first reaches for. Likewise, when that same drinker seeks to venture into uncut, full proof whiskies for the first time - a tremulous leap to be sure - the experts caring hand would do well to guide them to one of Elijah Craig's barrel proof offerings, ever full but easygoing as they are. And now for the first time, the name appears on a rye whiskey, which is likewise a mellow and well crafted introduction to the spirit, with gentle spice backed by plenty of sweetness and elegance.

ELIJAH CRAIG TOASTED BARREL BOURBON

Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel Bourbon begins its life as fully matured Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon, before going into a secondary barrel made with 18 month air-dried staves which were toasted (moderate toast) then flash charred. On the nose, roasted marshmallows, rich caramel, vanilla, and baking spices. Sweeter flavors of graham cracker, chocolate, and caramel contrast nutmeg and pepper spice notes on the palate.

ELIJAH CRAIG SMALL BATCH BOURBON

Strong, sweet fragrance with wood and spice. Butterscotch candy flavors, echoed by some oak, caramel and vanilla.

ELIJAH CRAIG STRAIGHT RYE WHISKEY

Aromas include butterscotch, caramel-nut clusters, and peppery spice. The spice ramps up on the palate, carried forward by the full body, hearty proof, and mouth-coating texture, as cherry cola, baking chocolate, and darker fruits emerge.