Heaven Hill Heritage 18yr Bourbon

This 18yr old traditional Heaven Hill mashbill of 78% corn, 10% rye, and 12% barley malt is bottled at 120 proof. While past releases of the heritage have been less than stellar (Corn Whiskey?) this bottle reclaims the throne. While Elijah Craig’s 18yr has more than tripled in price, it’s always been a 90 proofer and still is today. This is the big boy version and you can tell the first time your nose gets even remotely close to the glass. Big wave of leather and furniture oak with a very deep cinnamon aroma. So far, all very standard stuff from a big time release, but once you take a sip, all bets are off. It’s one of the most extraordinary whiskies I’ve ever tasted. There’s a lightness and sweetness along with the rich depth that I’ve never tasted from Heaven Hill. Unlike most ultra aged bourbons, this one actually develops fruit on the FINISH, with juicy fruit gum, rye pine spice, and 60 second finish that’s balanced and fresh as well as tasting ancient and leathery in the best ways. No joke, this is legendary stuff.