Just a few more bottles to highlight from those who didn't make the top 5 list until we get to reveal the rankings!  Today's highlight is of Bulleit Barrel Strength.  This is a batch-release product by Bulleit Distilling with this being batch 6.  I've had 4 different batches of this and they're reasonably consistent with only slight differences between them.  I will say, that the higher proof versions (above 120) tend to be ones that I prefer the most. 

Stats: NAS (5-8 yr blend); 68% corn, 28% rye, 4% malted barley; 116.6 proof; $49

Verdict: Yes, you did read that price above correct. This is a barrel-strength product from barrels averaging 6-7 years old for less than $50.  That is an impressive and wonderfully consumer-centric release!  And the price doesn't necessarily reflect the quality of the product either.  The nose gives you a rye-forward and earthy aroma that unlike most whiskeys doesn't translate to the palate quite like that.  I've said about previous batches, and it holds true for this one, the flavors on the palate all seem to pop at the same time.  You will typically find the flavors to "roll" as the sip moves around your palate but for some reason, I don't find this pour to do that. Those flavors are cane sugar sweetness, maple syrup, hints of honey, cocoa, white pepper, baking spices, and oak.  As with any good barrel strength, it provides a nice long finish.  This might be a little overwhelming for the inexperienced whiskey drinker as you may not be able to really tell what you're tasting with an exploding palate like this.  This is easily one of, if not the, best lower-priced barrel-strength products.  However, in this group of products, it comes close to the top 5 but falls just short.