Despite one of the worst storms in Columbus history, the Central Ohio Whiskey Society gathered for an excellent turnout at 1801 Tavern to welcome a true rising star in the bourbon world: Nic Christiansen, Master Blender at Barrell Craft Spirits. Known for her appearance on Bravo’s Top Chef, Nic shared her “origin story” with the club, describing the exact moment she tasted the complex, multi-layered “Dovetail” and decided she had to become a blender for the brand. The evening was a masterclass in the art of blending, highlighting Barrell’s evolution from selling Batch 001 out of a car trunk in 2013 to becoming a trailblazer in the craft spirits industry.
The tasting kicked off with Barrell Foundation, a five-to-nine-year-old blend representing the brand’s first foray into a consistent 100-proof product. Nic explained the meticulous process of using water as a “flavor component,” adding it gradually throughout the blending process rather than simply cutting a finished batch to proof. This technique ensures that even at a lower proof, the whiskey retains the full-bodied mouthfeel and complexity that Barrell enthusiasts expect from their traditional cask-strength offerings.
A Journey Through Experimental Finishes
As the night progressed, the club sampled several of Barrell’s most iconic and experimental expressions. The lineup included the highly acclaimed Batch 037—a blend of bourbons ranging from 7.5 to 17 years old—and the fan-favorite Seagrass, a rye whiskey finished in Martinique Rhum, Madeira, and Apricot Brandy casks. Nic detailed the creative vision behind Seagrass, which was designed to evoke the salinity and atmosphere of the Northeast coast, and admitted the team initially worried the profile might be “too weird” for consumers before it became a runaway success.
The evening concluded with a look at Barrell’s premium offerings, including the 12-year French Oak finished bourbon. Nic shared insights into her rigorous “blind” testing process, noting that she often makes adjustments as small as a single 750ml bottle in a 5,000-gallon blend to ensure the flavor profile is perfect. It was a night of high-proof education and exceptional spirits, leaving the society well-prepared for the upcoming “Beyond Bourbon” series and future barrel picks
