BCA & Warehouse Liquor Market Announce Final Pick: Bulleit Single Barrel KSBW

Last Updated on October 22, 2021 by 5e2793

PUBLISH DATE: October 22, 2021
On October 22, 2021, Gary Penna shared the news that would close out the year for the Bourbon Club of Arkansas (BCA) with a bang. Partnering once again with Warehouse Liquor Market, BCA selected its final barrel pick of 2021—a Bulleit Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Single Barrel that genuinely surprised even the most seasoned palates.

Penna was candid in his assessment: while he’s “not a huge Bulleit fan” historically, this particular barrel—along with another circulating in Arkansas—stood out as the best he had ever tasted. The balance, structure, and maturity of the whiskey suggested expert barrel selection at the sourcing level, delivering a pour that exceeded expectations.

Barrel & Production Details

This single barrel showcases a mash bill and maturation profile that leans into balance rather than brute force:

• Mash Bill:
  • 75% Corn
  • 21% Rye
  • 4% Malted Barley
• Yeast: Strain #4
• Age: 8–12 years
• Char Level: #4
• Proof: 104

The result is a bourbon Penna likened to a Four Roses OESF-style profile—well integrated, gently spicy, and remarkably drinkable. At 104 proof, it offered a welcome pause from the club’s run of high-proof releases while still delivering depth and character.

Flavor & Style

Expect a balanced pour with a restrained rye spice, layered over mature oak and rounded sweetness. The proof point allows the whiskey to remain expressive without overwhelming the palate, making it an easy recommendation for both seasoned bourbon drinkers and those looking to explore nuanced single barrels without jumping into barrel-strength territory.

Release Expectations

• Estimated Release Window: 6–8 weeks from announcement
• Price: Approximately $59.99
• Sticker & “IN” Post:
  • Sticker to follow shortly after announcement
  • Official IN post to be released within two weeks
  • (As emphasized: Do not comment “IN” until the official post)

Background: Bulleit Distilling Company

Bulleit Distilling Company traces its modern roots to the late 1980s, when Tom Bulleit revived a family bourbon recipe dating back to the 19th century. Known for its high-rye bourbon profile, Bulleit has become a staple in American whiskey, balancing wide distribution with a flavor profile that appeals to rye-forward enthusiasts.

Today, Bulleit operates a state-of-the-art distillery in Shelbyville, Kentucky, producing bourbon and rye that emphasize consistency, bold spice, and approachable structure. While many Bulleit releases are known for their house profile, single barrel selections like this one allow standout barrels to shine—often revealing a depth and elegance not always found in standard bottlings.

Final Thoughts

For BCA’s final pick of 2021, this Bulleit Single Barrel hit all the right notes: maturity, balance, and drinkability. It served as a reminder that even familiar labels can surprise when the right barrel is chosen—and it closed the year on a high note for both Bourbon Club of Arkansas members and Warehouse Liquor Market customers lucky enough to secure a bottle.

Official Tasting Notes

Source: Aaron Parsley – Facebook, February 5, 2022

Nose:
An initial blast of brown sugar and caramel immediately signals this as a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Floral notes follow, accompanied by dark chocolate. With time, hints of apple emerge, all wrapped in a rich depth reminiscent of Four Roses OESQ.

Palate:
Opens with a rich, coating mouthfeel. Brown sugar and caramel dominate early, followed by an unexpected and enjoyable grape soda note. Toward the back of the palate, a touch of pepper appears, but without any aggressive spice.

Finish:
Long, rich, and lingering—wrapping around the tongue and lasting close to a full minute.

Overall Impression:
A standout KSBW at 104 proof with zero burn or ethanol presence. While the word “smooth” is often avoided, this one earns it. The only complaint? Wanting to try it at barrel proof. A bottle worthy of multiples.

Rating: 🥃🥃🥃🥃🥃 (5/5)