Elijah Craig Barrel Proof B525 Set for May 2025 Release
Heaven Hill Distillery is preparing to release the Elijah Craig Barrel Proof B525—the second of three annual barrel-proof batches for 2025. Set to arrive in May 2025, this release follows the popular A125 batch and continues the tradition of uncut, non-chill-filtered bourbon that showcases the brand’s age, proof, and natural character.
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Key Takeaways
Elijah Craig B525 is expected to release in May 2025 as the second 2025 barrel-proof batch.
Continues the tradition of 12-year-old, uncut, unfiltered bourbon.
Estimated proof range: 118–130.
Part of a trio of annual releases (A, B, and C).
Offers rich flavors of toffee, spice, oak, and dark fruit.
What We Know So Far
While the specific proof and age of the B525 batch have not yet been officially confirmed, it is expected to follow the brand’s consistent formula:
Mash Bill: 78% corn, 12% malted barley, 10% rye
Aging: Typically 12 years
Proof: Varies by batch; estimated range 118–130 proof
Price: ~$75 MSRP
Availability: Limited national release, starting May 2025
Nose (anticipated): Toasted oak, vanilla, dark brown sugar, and cinnamon
Palate (anticipated): Rich toffee, spice, barrel char, and dried fruit
Finish (anticipated): Long and warm with lingering oak and dark spice
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof releases are known for delivering bold, full-bodied flavor straight from the barrel—making them favorites among bourbon enthusiasts seeking intensity and authenticity.
How B525 Fits in the 2025 Lineup
Each year, Elijah Craig releases three barrel-proof batches: A (January), B (May), and C (September). The A125 release was praised for its balance of proof and drinkability. Expectations for B525 are high, with fans looking forward to a bolder, spicier summer expression.
On the Elijah Craig Barrel Product page, interactive timeline is provided with the batch number, proof and age statement of each year's releases.
While the final specs for B525 won’t be known until closer to launch, early distributor notes and enthusiast channels suggest it could fall in the mid-120s proof range.
How It Compares to Recent Batches
Recent releases provide useful benchmarks:
A125 (Jan 2025): Proof ~124.2 | Noted for smooth caramel and toasted spice
C923 (Sept 2023): Proof 133.0 | Big, spicy, and full of barrel heat
B523 (May 2023): Proof 124.2 | Known for balance and dark sweetness
If the B525 batch lands near 125–128 proof, it could offer the perfect balance between power and drinkability.
Image Credit: Elijah Craig website
What Makes Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Unique
Unlike many limited bourbons that are filtered or proofed down, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof is bottled uncut and unfiltered, providing a true cask-strength experience. Each batch reflects the natural variation of the aging process, making every release distinct.
As bourbon drinkers continue to seek age-stated, full-proof expressions, Elijah Craig remains one of the few nationally distributed barrel-proof bourbons still aged 12 years.
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