Brian Haara
Bourbon. Law. Author.
Sipp’n Corn Tasting Notes: Larceny Barrel Proof Batch B520.
I was so happy to see that Heaven Hill decided to release a barrel proof version of its popular Larceny wheated bourbon, and I enjoyed its first release, Batch A120. I received a sample of Batch B520 last month and right off the bat it was impressive. After my standard three separate tastes and then a blind taste against some peer rivals, I’m saving the last pour to taste blind against this fall’s limited releases; it’s that good.
Larceny Barrel Proof B520 Tasting Notes
Bourbon: Larceny Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Distillery: Heaven Hill
Age: NAS, but probably 6-8 years
ABV: 61.1% (122.2 proof)
Cost: $49.99
Appearance:
Dark amber. Very similar to Larceny Barrel Proof batch A120.
Nose:
Wonderfully sweet butterscotch with elegant herbal aromas, blackberry, and oak char. It’s mouthwatering like a wheated bourbon should be.
Taste:
The first sip seals the deal. It’s creamy with caramel, oak, honey, and vanilla driving the sweetness and the right amount of spice for balance.
Finish:
Medium in length with a fantastic swell.
Bottom Line
Larceny Barrel Proof continues to fire on all cylinders with B520 outshining A120. Larceny can really position itself as a market leader with its readily available standard Larceny and three regular releases per year of the Barrel Proof version. After completing my review, I tried batch B520 blind against two other wheated bourbons of similar age—one at 107 proof and the other at a cask strength of 113.3 proof. Larceny Barrel Proof crushed them.
Disclaimer: The brand managers
kindly sent me a sample for this review,
without any strings attached.
Thank you.
Brian Haara 