Orphan Barrel Barterhouse, with its 20-year maturation, is a bit of a mixed bag. On one hand, it’s an easy-drinking and pleasant bourbon, but it definitely has a bit of an overpowering oakiness, with notes of dry leather and tobacco, which may not appeal to those seeking a more balanced flavor.
It really is a bourbon that can divide opinions. Its lengthy aging and the Orphan Barrel project’s uniqueness add to its allure, yet its flavor profile might not universally charm every bourbon enthusiast. It represents an interesting exploration for those curious about the nuances of aged bourbon.
In-Depth Review Of Orphan Barrel’s Barterhouse
Orphan Barrel Barterhouse has a unique blend of aromas and flavors, which is a clear result of its extended aging process. This bourbon offers a sensory experience that highlights its distinctive nose and refined finish.
Confused by these terms? You might want to brush up on your familiarity with the whiskey tasting process.
On the nose, you’re getting a complex blend of deeply charred oak, varnish, old wood, complemented by sweeter undertones of caramel, marzipan, and candied orange rind. On the palate, it starts with vanilla and caramel, then introduces a significant oak presence. The finish is long and comforting, featuring persistent vanilla and oak flavors with an added layer of caramel and maple syrup sweetness, and a touch of smokiness and leather.
This review delves into the unique aspects of Orphan Barrel Barterhouse, from its aromatic complexity to its palate and finish. Additionally, we explore its place in the world of bourbon, discussing its rare nature and suitability in various culinary and cocktail contexts.
Distillery: Where Is It Made?
Barterhouse Bourbon is a product steeped in the tradition of Kentucky’s bourbon-making legacy. It’s distilled at the New Bernheim Distillery in Louisville, Kentucky. After distillation, the spirit is matured in the historic Stitzel-Weller rickhouses, adding layers of depth and character. Its journey concludes at the George Dickel Distillery in Tennessee, where it’s bottled.
This bourbon’s intricate production journey across these iconic locations contributes significantly to its unique flavor profile and sought-after status among enthusiasts. With three destinations on its production journey, Barterhouse really stands out as a reflection of the rich heritage and expertise of American whiskey production.
Distillation & Aging: How Is It Made?
Barterhouse has a unique mashing process with a high corn content (86% corn, 8% malted barley, 6% rye), which is somewhat reminiscent of the original Ancient Age recipe also made at the New Bernheim Distillery. This distinctive mash bill contributes to its robust taste profile.
The aging process of Barterhouse also adds to its character. It has a prolonged aging imparts a depth and maturity to the bourbon, although some critics suggest it leads to an overpowering oakiness in the flavor. The end product is a bourbon that, despite its age, presents a relatively simple palate and finish.
Nose: What Does It Smell Like?
Barterhouse greets you with a nose that’s a rich mix of experiences. There’s a prominent oaky depth, like you’ve walked into an old, wood-paneled library. This is complemented by an intriguing variety of sweet notes – think caramel drizzle over an orange dessert, maybe with a dash of marzipan.
It’s a blend of the rustic and the sweet, setting up an aroma that’s as inviting as it is complex. This isn’t just a simple whiff of oak, it’s layered, offering a little something more every time you nose it, balancing the depth of age with lighter, sweeter hints.
Palate: What Does It Taste Like?
When you taste Barterhouse, it starts off with a sweet ‘hello’ of vanilla and caramel, then quickly ushers in a strong oak character. This isn’t just a fleeting note; the oak really makes its presence felt, adding a robust backbone to the sip. The high corn content in the mash bill brings a mellowness, smoothing out the oaky edges.
It’s a pleasant balance, really. While you might expect something more intricate from a bourbon aged this long, what Barterhouse offers is still pretty satisfying – a harmonious mix of flavors that’s straightforward yet appealing.
Finish: What Is The Aftertaste Like?
Finishing off your sip of Barterhouse, the experience is long and comforting, with those vanilla and oak flavors sticking around. It’s sweet, but not overly so, with caramel and maple syrup notes that linger just the right amount.
There’s also a bit of smokiness and a hint of leather, adding another layer to the finish. It’s not the most complex finish out there, but it rounds out the bourbon nicely. You’re left with a warm, pleasant aftertaste that’s like a classic bourbon finish, but with a little extra something that makes it memorable.
My Personal Thoughts
The oak is front and center, really making its presence known. There are these nice little hints of sweetness and fruitiness, sure, but they’re playing second fiddle to the oak’s lead guitar solo. I like it for its uniqueness and the conversation it starts, but I’ve got to say, it’s not the bourbon I’d pick for every occasion.
Flavor Profile
The flavor of Orphan Barrel Barterhouse is a journey through a forest of oak. It’s like wandering through an old library. There’s a sense of age, wisdom, and a bit too much wood.
The finish is where the oak really plants its flag, leaving a dry, lingering presence that is both interesting and a tad overwhelming. It’s a profile that some may find too one-sided towards oakiness, but it has its moments of intrigue.
Who Would I Recommend It To?
I’d cautiously recommend Barterhouse to those who are curious about the effects of extended aging and have a palate for oak-forward bourbons. It’s a talking point, a bottle to bring out when you want to spark a discussion about the diversity of bourbon profiles.
However, if you’re someone who prefers a more balanced, rich, and complex bourbon, or if you’re new to bourbon and still exploring your tastes, Barterhouse might be a bit challenging. Its overpowering oakiness and lack of balanced complexity make it a unique but not necessarily a crowd-pleasing choice
Awards: What Is It Famous For?
Barterhouse Bourbon hasn’t been specifically recognized with awards in the traditional sense like some other bourbons. Instead, its allure and appeal come from its rarity and unique characteristics. So if you’re into whiskey collecting, it’s definitely got some appeal.
It’s a 20-year-old bourbon, aged in charred American oak barrels, leading to a smooth and rich flavor profile. This limited availability makes Barterhouse a sought-after item among whiskey collectors and enthusiasts.
The Orphan Barrel project itself is known for uncovering and bottling rare whiskeys, which often become collector’s items due to their limited nature. Each release from the project, including Barterhouse, is unique, not just in flavor but also in its story and presentation. The rarity and limited availability of these whiskeys, once a batch is sold out, it’s gone forever, add to their appeal in the whiskey community.
So, while Barterhouse may not have a list of traditional awards or recognitions, its value in the market is enhanced by its rarity, age, and the unique story behind its creation and bottling.
Price: How Much Does It Cost?
Barterhouse Bourbon, aged 20 years, finds itself in a unique position in the bourbon market with a price tag ranging from $600 to $800. This puts it in a considerably higher bracket compared to other aged bourbons.
To put this into perspective, Elijah Craig’s 21-year bourbon is typically priced around $150, offering a matured bourbon experience at a more approachable price. Similarly, Buffalo Trace’s Antique Collection, featuring bourbons aged between 18 to 19 years, is even more affordable at around $70. Even Parker Heritage’s 10-year release, another contender in the aged bourbon category, is priced at about $100, making it a less costly alternative.
In this context, Barterhouse doesn’t exactly come across as a budget-friendly option for those seeking an aged bourbon experience. Instead, it positions itself as a premium, luxury choice in the market, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts willing to invest in its unique aging and flavor profile. This pricing strategy sets Barterhouse apart from other options, catering to a specific segment of the bourbon market that values rarity and exclusivity alongside age.
Please note that prices may vary based on availability, specific retailer pricing policies, and taxes applicable in each region.
Alcohol Content: What’s The ABV?
Orphan Barrel Barterhouse, with its 45.1% ABV, offers a harmonious blend of intensity and smoothness, making it ideal for both sipping and savoring its nuanced flavors. This ABV level is somewhat typical for premium bourbons, ensuring that the rich notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak are prominent, yet balanced.
The choice of ABV is crucial in whiskey production, as it impacts not just the taste but also the texture and overall drinking experience. It’s this thoughtful calibration that makes Barterhouse a well-rounded choice for those who appreciate a bourbon that’s robust yet approachable, offering an experience that’s rich in flavor but not overpowering.
The Best Ways To Enjoy Barterhouse
Barterhouse Bourbon is a versatile drink that pairs beautifully with a variety of foods and makes for excellent cocktail base. For food pairings, aged cheeses like sharp cheddar or aged gouda match well with its oaky notes, while fatty meats such as ham and salmon enhance the bourbon’s flavors. Chocolate desserts and apple dishes also complement its rich profile.
In terms of cocktails, Barterhouse works wonderfully in classics like Old Fashioneds and Manhattans, where its complex flavors can be fully appreciated. Additionally, it pairs well with simple mixers that highlight its deep oak and sweetness, such as chocolate or maple syrup
Food Pairings
When it comes to enhancing the tasting experience of Orphan Barrel Barterhouse, selecting the right food pairings is key. Below is a detailed table offering specific recommendations:
| Food Type | Specific Recommendation | Why It Works |
| Aged Cheeses | Gouda, Aged Cheddar | Complements the bourbon’s rich notes |
| Dark Chocolate | 70-85% Cacao | Balances the sweetness with bitterness |
| Smoked Meats | Smoked Brisket, Applewood Smoked Bacon | Enhances the smoky aspects of the bourbon |
These culinary combinations not only elevate the bourbon tasting journey but also highlight Barterhouse’s remarkable versatility and depth.
Cocktails
Incorporating Orphan Barrel Barterhouse into cocktails brings a new dimension to classic concoctions. Below are detailed recipes showcasing how Barterhouse’s unique characteristics influence the taste:
| Cocktail Name | Ingredients | Preparation |
| Old Fashioned | 2 oz Barterhouse, 1 Sugar Cube, Few dashes Bitters, Orange Peel | Muddle sugar and bitters, add bourbon, stir with ice, garnish with orange peel |
| Manhattan | 2 oz Barterhouse, 1 oz Sweet Vermouth, 2 dashes Angostura Bitters, Cherry | Stir ingredients with ice, strain into a chilled glass, garnish with a cherry |
Utilizing Barterhouse in these cocktails not only showcases its flexibility as a premium bourbon but also invites enthusiasts to discover innovative ways to savor its unique profile, blending tradition with creativity.
Orphan Barrel Barterhouse vs Orphan Barrel Rhetoric
To sum it up, Orphan Barrel Barterhouse is like that laid-back, mature friend who’s always a pleasure to hang out with. It’s a 20-year-old bourbon that doesn’t try too hard to impress, offering a smooth blend of dry oak, caramel, cherry, and vanilla flavors. It’s not overly sweet or oaky, and its finish is like a short but sweet goodbye.
On the other hand, Orphan Barrel Rhetoric is the more intriguing and complex buddy. It’s aged even longer, bringing a deeper, more nuanced character to the table. Both are great picks in their own right – Barterhouse for its easy-going charm and Rhetoric for its rich, layered personality.
Really which one you prefer to go with is going to be about your personal taste. They’re both good bourbons with something unique to offer.
