The News
Elijah Craig announced the release of its inaugural 15-Year-Old Single Barrel Bourbon, a higher-proof expression bottled at 108 proof. The bourbon features aromas of dark fruit, figs, and roses, with tasting notes of roasted nuts, toasted oak, and caramelized sugar, culminating in a full-bodied finish evoking crème brûlée with ginger and cloves. The release was made by Heaven Hill Distillery, with Master Distiller Conor O’Driscoll highlighting the balance between bold complexity and refined sweetness.
The Takeaway
- Aged Bourbon Appeal: Elijah Craig’s new 15-Year-Old Single Barrel Bourbon targets connoisseurs looking for depth and maturity in their whiskey, with a profile that balances rich flavors like caramelized sugar and toasted oak against refined spice notes. The extended aging process is central to its identity as a premium offering.
- Proof Pointing: Bottled at 108 proof, this expression emphasizes the brand’s commitment to delivering bold yet balanced flavor, appealing to those who appreciate higher-proof bourbons without overwhelming intensity. This approach positions it as both an indulgent sipper and a collectible for serious whiskey enthusiasts.
- Legacy Reinforcement: By introducing its first 15-year-old single barrel bourbon, Elijah Craig is reinforcing its identity as the “Father of Bourbon,” leveraging historical craftsmanship to stand out in a competitive spirits market where aged expressions are increasingly valued.
Original Press Release
First-time single barrel expression delivers bold complexity, layered sweetness and a refined, full-bodied finish worthy of the brand’s “Father of Bourbon” legacy.
BARDSTOWN, Ky., March 18, 2026 - Elijah Craig, the award-winning family of premium American whiskeys, today announced its inaugural Elijah Craig Single Barrel 15-Year-Old Bourbon. The new expression joins the brand’s acclaimed single barrel lineup as a higher-proof offering crafted for those seeking robust and complex flavors.
Bottled at 108 proof, Elijah Craig 15-Year-Old Bourbon delivers a layered tasting experience designed to showcase the richness and depth that comes with extended aging in new charred oak barrels.
The expression leads with aromas of dark fruit, figs and roses. Upon tasting, expect flavors of roasted nuts, toasted oak and caramelized sugar that build to a rich, complex finish evoking crème brûlée with ginger and cloves. Its structure yields a mature elegance without feeling too intense, creating a full-bodied profile balanced by refined sweetness and spice.
“This release reflects the craftsmanship and tradition that has defined Elijah Craig for generations,” said Conor O’Driscoll, Master Distiller at Heaven Hill Distillery. “We were looking for exceptional depth and character in our first 15-Year-Old Single Barrel Bourbon, and it delivers at a proof that enhances its natural complexity. The result is a bold yet refined whiskey that is approachable enough to be an all-evening sipper.”
The 54% ABV offers a subtle nod to May 4, 1964 - the date the United States Congress officially recognized Bourbon as a distinct product of the United States. The ruling reinforced the standards that continue to guide its production, including a requirement that it be aged in new charred oak barrels. That pioneering practice is attributed to Elijah Craig and is what earned him his enduring reputation as the “Father of Bourbon.”
Elijah Craig 15-Year-Old Bourbon will be available in 750ml bottles nationally beginning this month, with a suggested retail price of $149.99.
Follow Elijah Craig on Instagram for news about the latest release and find a retailer near you at ElijahCraig.com.
Source: BevNET