Old Carter Straight Bourbon Whiskey Batch 9 is a highly sought-after release from Old Carter Whiskey Co., a boutique whiskey producer renowned for its small-batch, handcrafted spirits. Released in 2021, this batch has garnered significant attention for its rich flavor profile, limited availability, and the meticulous craftsmanship that defines every bottle. In this article, we explore the details of Batch 9, including its production, tasting notes, and what sets it apart in the competitive world of bourbon whiskey. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this guide offers a deep dive into why Old Carter Straight Bourbon Whiskey Batch 9 is a standout in the bourbon category.

Background on Old Carter Whiskey Co.

Old Carter Whiskey Co. was founded by Mark and Sherri Carter, a husband-and-wife team also known for their successful wine brand, Carter Cellars, in Napa Valley. Their passion for crafting exceptional spirits led them to establish Old Carter Whiskey Co., with a mission to create unique, very small-batch, straight rye and bourbon whiskies. Each bottle is a labor of love, with the Carters personally involved in every step of the process—from selecting barrels to creating new blends and handwriting each individual label.

The company sources its whiskey from MGP in Indiana, a distillery renowned for its high-quality grain neutral spirits and whiskey The Whiskey Jar. Old Carter’s bourbons are bottled at barrel strength without chill filtration, allowing the true character and spirit of the whiskey to shine through Old Carter Whiskey Co.. Since its first releases in 2018, Old Carter has produced a variety of batches, ranging from fewer than 100 bottles to over 2,000, with each batch offering a distinct expression of their craftsmanship Whiskey Consensus.

Understanding Straight Bourbon and High Rye Bourbon

To fully appreciate Old Carter Straight Bourbon Whiskey Batch 9, it’s essential to understand the terms “straight bourbon” and “high rye bourbon.”

Straight Bourbon

Straight bourbon is a category of bourbon that adheres to strict legal requirements set by the U.S. government. It must:

• Be aged for at least two years in new, charred oak barrels.

• Be distilled at no more than 80% ABV (160 proof).

• Contain no added coloring or flavoring.

• If aged for less than four years, the age must be stated on the label.

These regulations ensure that straight bourbon maintains a high standard of quality and authenticity, distinguishing it from blended or flavored whiskeys Serious Eats.

High Rye Bourbon

High rye bourbon refers to bourbons where rye makes up a significant portion of the mash bill—typically around 20% or more. While bourbon must contain at least 51% corn, the remaining grains (usually barley and either rye or wheat) influence its flavor. Rye adds a spicy, peppery kick that complements the sweetness of the corn, resulting in a more complex and robust flavor profile compared to traditional bourbons with lower rye content Liquor.com.

Old Carter Straight Bourbon Whiskey Batch 9 is a high rye bourbon, which contributes to its distinctive spicy and fruity notes, setting it apart from other bourbons.

Detailed Review of Batch 9

Old Carter Straight Bourbon Whiskey Batch 9, released in 2021, is a high rye bourbon whiskey bottled at 116.8 proof (58.4% ABV). With only 1,534 bottles produced, it is a limited-edition release that has been praised for its depth and complexity. Below, we compile tasting notes and characteristics from various whiskey reviewers to provide a comprehensive profile of this batch.

Tasting Notes

Production Details

Unique Characteristics

Batch 9 is noted for its uncommonly decadent and fruity profile, with a complexity that belies its high proof. The high rye content contributes to a thick, viscous palate and a long, enjoyable finish. Reviewers highlight the Carters’ exceptional barrel selection, which elevates this MGP-sourced whiskey above many competitors. The handwritten labels and small-batch nature add to its artisanal appeal, making each bottle a unique expression of the Carters’ vision The Right Spirit.

Comparison with Other Batches and Similar Bourbons

While direct comparisons to other Old Carter batches are limited, reviewers suggest that Batch 9 stands out for its richness and refinement. For instance, The Right Spirit compares Batch 9 to Spirits of French Lick whiskeys, particularly Mattie Gladden, noting similar fruity and complex profiles. When tasted alongside Solomon Scott Rye (60% rye, 35% corn, 5% malted barley, 102.2 proof), Batch 9 is described as darker and more fruit-syrupy, with a richer overall character The Right Spirit.

The Whiskey Jar notes that Batch 9 performs better on its own than when blended, outperforming some Barrell releases that incorporate Cascade Hollow bourbon. This speaks to the quality of the Carters’ barrel selection and blending expertise The Whiskey Jar. Some critics argue that Old Carter’s MGP-sourced whiskey is overpriced, but defenders, including The Whiskey Jar, counter that the Carters’ ability to select exceptional barrels justifies the cost.

Availability and Pricing

Old Carter Straight Bourbon Whiskey Batch 9 was released in 2021 as part of the April releases (batches 7, 8, 9, 10), with a total of 1,534 bottles produced. It was distributed in Kentucky, California, Washington D.C., Maryland, and Delaware Old Carter Whiskey Co.. The retail price ranged from $150 to $175, a slight reduction from previous batches priced at $200, making it a more accessible option for enthusiasts The Whiskey Jar.

Given its limited production and high demand, finding Batch 9 on shelves today may be challenging. However, it can occasionally be found through online retailers like Drizly or specialty liquor stores such as Woodland Hills Wine Company. For those unable to secure Batch 9, Old Carter Whiskey Co. continues to release new batches, each offering a unique tasting experience.

Conclusion

Old Carter Straight Bourbon Whiskey Batch 9 is a testament to the dedication and craftsmanship of Mark and Sherri Carter. Its rich, complex flavor profile, driven by its high rye content, makes it a standout in the world of small-batch bourbons. From its deep amber color to its long, lingering finish, every aspect of Batch 9 reflects the care and attention to detail that goes into each bottle.

Purchasing Old Carter Straight Bourbon Whiskey Batch #9 Online In Louisville Kentucky USA. For whiskey enthusiasts, Batch 9 offers a delightful combination of traditional bourbon sweetness with the added complexity and spice from its high rye content. Its limited availability and high praise from reviewers make it a coveted addition to any whiskey collection. Whether sipped neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, Old Carter Straight Bourbon Whiskey Batch 9 is sure to leave a lasting impression.