Distillery: Distilled in Indiana and Tennessee—Blended and Bottled by Barrel Craft Spirits
Proof: 125.42 (61.71% ABV)
Age: Various—see below
Mashbill: Undisclosed
MSRP: $80
Diversity in the Finishes – Harmony in the Blend
As a blender, Barrell Craft Spirits, was founded on the approach of sourcing exceptional barrels from distilleries across the country and blending them into cask-strength releases. Unlike many brands that focus on consistency in their blends, Barrell embraces variation—each release is a new exploration of flavors, crafted from carefully selected barrels that highlight different mash bills, ages, and aging climates.
Barrell does not distill their own whiskey. Instead, they operate sort of like a treasure hunter by seeking out the best barrels Kentucky, Indiana, and Tennessee, then blending those barrels into an entirely new creation. This method aims to create complex, high-proof bourbons that showcase the art of blending expressions from multiple distilleries rather than from a single distillery.
You may notice Barrell unique’s spelling with two “L”s. This is symbolic and serves to reinforce their philosophy of taking something familiar and making it unique. Certainly, Barrell Bourbon has become a favorite among enthusiasts and the many accolades back up their status in the blending category.
One of their most recognized expressions is Dovetail (Blue Label)—a blend of bourbons and whiskeys finished in Dunn Vineyards Cabernet casks, Late Bottled Vintage Port pipes, and blackstrap molasses rum casks. Each of these finishes contributes unique layers to the whiskey, much like the dovetail joint in fine woodworking, which inspired the name. The careful integration of these elements results in a rich and balanced whiskey that has won accolades, including Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and Best Whiskey of 2021 at the John Barleycorn Awards.
Does Dovetail Blue Label live up to the reputation of Barrell’s other masterful blends?
Barrell Dovetail Whiskey Review: Tasting Notes
Nose – 4.5/5
The Nose is rich and inviting, presenting a medley of dark fruits, molasses, and toasted marshmallow. A subtleness of caramel, dried herbs and sweet oak emerge, all of which work together to create a complex Nose that evolves with time in the glass.
Palate – 4.25/5
On the Palate, Dovetail is rich and robust in flavors. Cane sugar, dark cherries, and barrel char along with notes of toasted marshmallow and baking spices. The high proof serves to promote a richness to the mouthfeel. The heat from the proof slightly overwhelms the flavors; a small splash of water brings forth much more of the sweet notes.
Finish – 4/5
The Finish is long and warm, with a resurgence of peppery spice, and a sweet dark fruit essence. A lingering aftertaste of toast propels you to another sip.
Value – 4/5
At $80 MSRP, Barrell Dovetail sits comfortably in the premium whiskey category. While the price is steep for casual drinkers, enthusiasts who appreciate well-executed blends can find plenty of Value here.
Barrell Dovetail (Blue Label) is a great example of why BCS is one of the leading labels in the blending category. The integration of Cabernet, Port, and Rum cask finishes results in a whiskey that is both bold and refined.
For those who enjoy finished whiskeys or a unique deviation from traditional bourbon, Dovetail is a must-try. Whether sipped neat, with a drop of water, or on a rock, this bottle showcases blending as an artform.
Barrell Dovetail Whiskey Review: The Verdict
Barrell Dovetail (Blue Label) is a great example of why BCS is one of the leading labels in the blending category. The integration of Cabernet, Port, and Rum cask finishes results in a whiskey that is both bold and refined.
For those who enjoy finished whiskeys or a unique deviation from traditional bourbon, Dovetail is a must-try. Whether sipped neat, with a drop of water, or on a rock, this bottle showcases blending as an artform.
Verdict – 4.2/5
We score each bourbon based on nose, palate, finish, and value.
Scoring System:
- Platinum – 4.5 – 5
- Gold – 4 – 4.5
- Silver – 3 – 4
- Bronze – <3
Mike Long is a staff writer at Bourbon Inspector and has an Executive Bourbon Steward designation from the Stave and Thief Society. He’s a former “wine guy” who discovered his love for bourbon years back at a spur-of-the-moment bourbon tasting he attended. He also loves traveling throughout America with his wife of over 37 years, Debby.