Barrel-Proof Bourbons: Worth the Extra Punch? 🥃🔥

Ever taken a sip of bourbon and thought, this could use a little more kick? Well, welcome to the world of barrel-proof bourbons—where the whiskey flows straight from the barrel, untouched, uncut, and unapologetically bold.

But does that extra punch make it worth the price (and the potential fire-breathing)? Let’s dive in.

Barrel-Proof vs. Single Barrel vs. Double Barrel vs. Triple Distilled—What’s the Difference?

There are a lot of whiskey terms floating around, and knowing the difference can make you a smarter sipper.

• Barrel-Proof (Cask Strength): Whiskey bottled exactly as it comes out of the barrel—no water added to lower the alcohol content. Typically ranges from 110-140 proof, delivering a more intense and undiluted experience.

• Single Barrel: Every bottle comes from one specific barrel, rather than a mix of multiple barrels. The flavor is unique to that barrel, so each bottle can taste slightly different. Not always barrel-proof, but some are.

• Double Barrel (or Double Oaked): The whiskey is aged in one barrel, then transferred to a second barrel for additional aging. This creates deeper oak influence, richer caramel, and extra smoothness.

• Triple Distilled: Instead of the usual two distillations, some whiskeys go through three rounds of distillation. This results in a lighter, smoother spirit with fewer impurities. Common in Irish whiskey (like Jameson) but occasionally found in bourbons.

• Triple Finish (or Cask Finish): After aging in a regular bourbon barrel, the whiskey is finished in multiple different casks (e.g., sherry, port, or rum barrels) to add extra complexity. Expect flavors like dark fruit, spice, and sweetness.

The Weekly Pour: Godfather Cocktail 🍊

Smooth meets strong in this simple, classic cocktail.

What You Need:

• 2 oz barrel-proof bourbon (Larceny Barrel Proof works beautifully)

• ½ oz amaretto

• Ice

• Orange peel (optional, for garnish)

How to Make It:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.

2. Pour in the bourbon and amaretto.

3. Stir for about 20 seconds to chill and combine.

4. Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.

5. Garnish with an orange peel if desired.

🔥 Pro Tip: Use a high-proof bourbon to balance out the sweetness of the amaretto. If you prefer it a little smoother, stir for a few extra seconds to dilute slightly.

🥃 Sip and enjoy!

Bottle Spotlight: Larceny Barrel Proof 🏆

If you love barrel-proof bourbon but want a little extra smoothness, Larceny Barrel Proof is your pour.

What Makes It Special?

• Wheated Bourbon: Instead of rye, it uses wheat in the mash bill, making it softer and sweeter.

• Barrel-Proof Intensity: No dilution here—just straight-up, full-flavored bourbon.

• Flavor Explosion: Expect rich molasses, fig, hazelnut, and a lingering warmth.

At ~120 proof, it packs a punch without being overwhelming—a great pick for anyone looking to ease into the barrel-proof game.

Where to Buy: You can find Larceny Barrel Proof Bourbon currently ON SALE at Craft Spirit Shop.

Perfect Food Pairing: Smoked Brisket & Larceny Barrel Proof 🍖

A big bourbon needs big flavors to match. The rich molasses and nutty notes in Larceny Barrel Proof complement the smoky, caramelized crust of a slow-cooked brisket perfectly.

🔥 Other great pairings:

• Dark chocolate & sea salt 🍫

• Grilled peaches with honey 🍑

• Aged cheddar or gouda 🧀

If you’re firing up the grill, this is the bourbon you want in your glass.

Let’s Match You With a Bourbon You’ll Love!

Not sure which bourbon fits your taste? I’ve put together a Bourbon Matchmaker Quiz to find the perfect pour for you.

Answer a few quick questions, and I’ll send you a personalized bourbon pick.

👇 Take The Bourbon Matchmaker Quiz Below! 👇

Because life’s too short to drink bad whiskey.

Final Sip: Is Barrel-Proof Bourbon Worth It?

If you love big flavors, deep complexity, and a whiskey that doesn’t hold back, then yes, barrel-proof bourbon is absolutely worth the extra punch. It’s not for the faint of heart, but for those who embrace the heat, it’s some of the best whiskey you’ll ever taste.

Cheers,
Ethan "Neat" Whitmore 🥃

P.S. On Thursday, we’ll talk about trade tensions and what the threat of new tariffs could mean for the whiskey market. Stay tuned—it’s a conversation that might change the way we drink. 🔥