Elijah Craig 15-Year
Overall Score: 7/10
Overall Value: 2.5/5
Distillery: Elijah Craig Distillery Co. (Heaven Hill)
Classification: Straight Bourbon
Company: Elijah Craig Distillery Co. (Heaven Hill)
Release Date: 2026
Proof: 108
Age: 15-Year
Mashbill: 78% Corn, 12% Malted Barley, 10% Rye
Color: Dark Chestnut
MSRP: $150 (2026)
The Hunter Says
Score: 7/10
Value: 2.5/5
THE NOSE:
This starts off with a massive wave of... peppermint?
It feels very unexpected, but it definitely leans heavily into a strong spearmint or herbal vibe right out of the gate.
THE TASTE:
It has a slightly heavy, darker mouthfeel. It’s actually very fruity—specifically loaded with deep red fruit notes.
Even though it sits at 108 proof, it drinks surprisingly hot. There is a little bit of that sweet caramel flavor trying to come through, but the heavy oak presence dampens it quite a bit.
THE FINISH:
For a 15-year pour, the oak level on the finish is thankfully pretty pleasant, which is a relief since 12 years is usually my absolute limit.
It leaves a slight, lingering numbness in your mouth as it fades out.
BUY OR PASS?
I usually have a pretty strict rule that anything past 12 years gets too woody for me, and while this bottle is still decent, it pushes those boundaries.
It’s an enjoyable enough pour, but there is just a bit too much oak going on for it to be something I’d truly love or reach for regularly. If you really dig that heavy, antique wood profile, you'll probably appreciate it more than I did.
