The Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye series continues to set the gold standard for premium, uncut American whiskey. Batch B526, the highly anticipated second release of 2026, showcases the immense depth and character of Heaven Hill's traditional rye mash bill. Bottled straight from the barrel without chill-filtration, this expression delivers the exact raw, robust experience that Master Distillers enjoy in the rickhouse.
Released in May 2026, Batch B526 boasts an impressive age statement of 10 years and 8 months, allowing the liquid to extract profound layers of seasoned oak and dark sweetness from the barrel. Clocking in at a highly approachable yet warming 115.6 proof (57.8% ABV), this limited-edition Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey strikes a flawless balance between fiery rye spice and deeply matured caramel richness.
Tasting Notes
Nose: A bold, aromatic rush of toasted oak and rich vanilla bean, quickly followed by signature rye notes of cracked black pepper, baking spices, and a whisper of fresh spearmint.
Palate: Incredibly viscous and coating. Sweet waves of dark honey and butterscotch hit the front of the palate before transitioning into a powerful surge of cinnamon, clove, and charred barrel tannins.
Finish: Long, warming, and profoundly satisfying. The sweetness fades into a lingering, spicy close with notes of seasoned leather, tobacco, and an enduring oak presence.
The Nestor Liquor Advantage
As your trusted source for premium and hard-to-find spirits, Nestor Liquor guarantees the authenticity of every allocated bottle. We specialize in secure, expertly packed nationwide shipping to ensure your Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye arrives in pristine condition, ready for your collection or your glass.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does the batch number "B526" mean? The batch number provides the exact release details of the whiskey. The "B" indicates it is the second batch of the year, the "5" represents the release month of May, and the "26" stands for the release year, 2026.
How old is Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Rye Batch B526? Unlike the standard Elijah Craig Straight Rye, the Barrel Proof series features variable age statements. Batch B526 was aged for exactly 10 years and 8 months, making it a highly mature and complex rye whiskey.
What is the proof of this release? Batch B526 is bottled at an uncut, unfiltered 115.6 proof (57.8% ABV). This natural barrel strength preserves the dense texture and concentrated flavor compounds that are typically lost during the dilution and filtration processes.
