Introducing Barrell Bourbon T8KE 2.2, an exclusive cask strength straight bourbon whiskey finished in Toasted American Oak and Park Cognac XO casks. This innovative dual-maturation expression is the result of a high-profile collaboration between Barrell Craft Spirits and bourbon critic T8KE, building on the success of the 2023 Private Release.
Distilled in Kentucky, Indiana, and Tennessee, the blend undergoes a 14-month rest in toasted barrels to deepen its texture, body, and toasty character, followed by a refined 2-month finish in rich Cognac XO casks. This second maturation adds an elegant layer of refined fruit, dried flowers, and soft sweetness, creating a bourbon with rare complexity and balance.
Bottled at a powerful 120.58 proof (60.29% ABV), T8KE 2.2 delivers full-flavored intensity with signature Barrell richness, showcasing layers of oak spice, honeycomb, stone fruit, and caramelized vanilla. This 750ml cask strength collector's release is bold in construction and memorable in finish, staying true to Barrell's ethos of pushing whiskey boundaries.
Crafted with intention, this release is "Blended to Never Blend In."
🔑 Key Features:
-
Edition: T8KE 2.2 – Collaboration with T8KE
-
Type: Blend of Straight Bourbon Whiskeys
-
Maturation: 14 months in Toasted Oak + 2 months in Park Cognac XO cask
-
ABV: 60.29%
-
Proof: 120.58
-
Size: 750ml
-
Cask Strength – Uncut, Unfiltered
-
Distilled in: Kentucky, Indiana, Tennessee
-
Bottled by: Barrell Craft Spirits, Louisville, KY
🥃 Tasting Notes:
-
Nose: Toasted caramel, orange blossom, stewed figs, and roasted hazelnut
-
Palate: Dense and rich with layers of dark fruit, Cognac warmth, vanilla bean, brown sugar, and seasoned oak
-
Finish: Lingering and elegant with hints of dried apricot, cigar box, and spice-laced toffee
🍽️ How to Enjoy:
Barrell Bourbon T8KE 2.2 is best experienced by enthusiasts of high-proof limited releases:
-
Sip neat to explore its full, layered complexity
-
Add a touch of water to open up the Cognac-finished aromatics
-
Serve in a Glencairn glass to capture nuance and texture
Perfect for:
-
Barrel-proof bourbon lovers
-
Connoisseurs of double-barrel finishes
-
Collectors of T8KE collaborations
❓ Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What is the T8KE 2.2 blend?
A: A dual-matured bourbon finished in Toasted American Oak and Park Cognac XO barrels, part of a collaboration with whiskey reviewer T8KE.
Q: Is this a limited release?
A: Yes. It’s a single-release expression crafted in small quantities for collectors and connoisseurs.
Q: How is it different from other Barrell expressions?
A: The Cognac XO finish and toasted barrel combo create a silky, fruit-forward twist on Barrell’s classic intensity.
Q: What proof is it bottled at?
A: 120.58 proof (60.29% ABV) – uncut and bottled at full cask strength.
