We’re digging into something I’ve been sitting on for a minute—Barrell Decade, a limited-release Canadian whiskey finished in Spanish brandy and Hungarian oak, bottled at a wild 142.7 proof. Yep, hazmat. This one’s been out for a while now, and you can still grab it online (The Barrel Tap just launched it), but I scooped mine early from the first drop. MSRP: $200. A premium pour, no doubt—but the question is, does it drink like one?
First Things First
This is Canadian-distilled whiskey aged 20 to 30 years and then blended and bottled by the mad scientists over at Barrell. If you know me, you know I ride hard for Barrell products—they just do stuff no one else is doing. Some folks write them off for all the blending, but let’s be real: they get it right way more often than not.
I let this sit for 30 minutes before tasting (partially because someone needed an urgent email response, yes, I do real work sometimes). Let’s just say the wait didn’t hurt.
The Look
Visually, it throws you off. At 142.7 proof and with some whiskey in the mix over 20 years old, you’d expect dark and brooding. Instead, this one’s light—almost straw gold. Definitely looks more Canadian than Kentucky.
On the Nose
Surprisingly soft right out the gate. The high proof doesn’t slap you across the face like you might expect. I’m getting fruit-forward notes, some light perfume, vanilla, and cinnamon—almost floral at moments. It’s inviting. Strange in a good way.
The Taste
Now this is where it gets interesting.
First sip and you’d never guess the proof. I mean that. The heat hides in the back, showing up late with a peppery twist, but the front is pure flavor: vanilla, raisin, cinnamon, even some baked apple or fig if you’re hunting.
What really caught me off guard was the texture—smooth, slightly oily, and just sits on the palate with a slow fade. That raisin note is what pushes it over the edge for me. I love when that shows up, and here it’s bold without being sticky or overly sweet.
The Verdict
- Proof: 142.7
- Age: Blend of 20 and 30 year barrels
- Finish: Spanish brandy + Hungarian oak
- Origin: Distilled in Canada, blended and bottled by Barrell
- Price: ~$200
Nick’s Final Pour
This one is just different—in the best way. Canadian whiskey with complexity, power, and nuance. It brings heat without burning off all the character. The brandy finish and oak work in harmony instead of overwhelming anything.
Score: 88/100.
I wanted to find something to nitpick, but truth is—it’s just good. Barrell keeps swinging for the fences, and they land more often than not. Is it pricey? Yes. Will it sneak up on you at 142 proof? Also yes. But it earns its price tag and then some.
Summary
- Light color, high proof
- Vanilla, raisin, cinnamon, light perfume on the nose
- Big flavor, soft entry, lingering heat
- An unusual and memorable pour—Canadian whiskey done right
- Score: 88/100
If you’re hunting for something bold, unique, and not just another bourbon clone, this one deserves a spot in the rotation. Just maybe clear your calendar first—it packs a punch.
