What Does Barrel Proof Mean? The Simple Answer

Wondering what barrel proof means in the bourbon world?

You aren’t alone.

There are so many bourbon terms thrown around that it’s hard to keep track of them all.

What’s the difference between barrel proof, bottled in bond, small batch, single barrel, cask strength, and full proof?

And why do they even matter?

This article will give you the answers.

What Is Barrel Proof Bourbon? 

Barrel proof bourbon means the bourbon in the bottle has the same alcohol content it did when it was put into the barrel for aging (usually 110+ proof).

Wouldn’t that make all bourbons barrel proof, you ask?

Surprisingly not.

Most bourbon actually increases in proof while it’s aging due to evaporation within the barrel from Kentucky summers.

Additionally, many standard bottles of bourbon have water added during the bottling process to reduce the proof.

So barrel proof is essentially what the bourbon tastes like right out of the barrel (with up to two degrees difference in ABV according to the ATF Ruling 79-9).

This is also referred to as “cask strength”, “original proof”, and “entry proof”.

Is Barrel Proof Bourbon Worth The Price Tag?

Barrel proof bourbon is usually in the premium price range because there’s no water added during the bottling process. 

That means the bourbon in the bottle is in its purest form—with the most intense flavors and aromas possible.

So, if you love bourbon and find a barrel proof version of your favorite brand, it is definitely worth grabbing.

But be warned.

They usually will cost upwards of $50-$100.

The Difference Between Barrel Proof and Other Common Bourbon Terms

Bottled-in-Bond

This is a government-regulated title that means a bourbon is 100 proof and aged for a minimum of 4 years.

Small Batch

This is a blend of multiple barrels (150 or less) of the same bourbon. A small batch bourbon is considered more premium than a standard bottle because distillers are pickier about what goes into the batch.

Single Barrel

This means a bottle came from one barrel. Because of this, single barrel bottles can vary quite a bit in taste since they reflect the barrel they came from. Each barrel can have different subtleties depending on where they were in the warehouse, weather they were exposed to, and more.

Cask Strength

This is another word for barrel proof.

Full Proof

This is similar to barrel proof but requires whiskey to be 125 proof when it enters the barrel for aging. It also must be 125 proof at bottling.

You Gotta Try Barrel Proof Bourbon At Least Once

Barrel proof bourbon is among the best you’ll ever try.

That’s why I recommend splurging at least once if you truly love bourbon on one of these expensive bottles.

Wondering which bottles are the best?

Below are my guides to the best bourbons under $50 and $100 respectively that will take away the guesswork:

• Best Bourbons Under $50
• Best Bourbons Under $100