John E. Fitzgerald 'Larceny' Barrel Proof Straight Very Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey, Kentucky

If there's one thing Heaven Hill does consistently well, it's crafting a bourbon that speaks to both legacy and innovation. The Larceny Barrel Proof series has always held a sweet spot for wheated bourbon lovers, offering unfiltered, full-strength pours that showcase the best of what the Old Fitzgerald lineage has to offer. Batch B524 continues the spice-forward trend seen in early 2024 releases, but with a more refined touch. While Batch A124 leaned too heavily into heat, this latest iteration reigns it in just enough, allowing layers of caramel, cinnamon, and dark fruit to shine. It’s an unapologetically bold sip that lingers with a Mexican chocolate and barrel char finish, promising an experience that’s as robust as it is rewarding.

Product Details

• Classification: Straight Bourbon
• Distillery: Heaven Hill
• Company: Heaven Hill
• Age: 6–8 Years
• Proof: 125.4 (Barrel Proof)
• Mash Bill: 68% Corn, 20% Wheat, 12% Malted Barley
• Barrel Char Level: 3
• Filtered Status: Non-Chill Filtered
• Distilled & Aged in: Bardstown, Kentucky
• Master Distiller: Conor O’Driscoll
• Release Date: May 2024
• Availability: Limited (Some Hunting Required)

Sensory Description

On the nose, B524 greets you with the inviting warmth of caramel and vanilla, but it doesn’t take long before the spice kicks in. A dusting of cinnamon and fennel seed mingles with baked bread and dark fruit, creating an aromatic profile that hints at its wheated backbone. The palate follows through with rich waves of toffee, brown sugar, and hazelnut, balanced by subtle notes of tobacco and oak. Where A124 was all fire, this batch tempers the heat with a touch of raisin and black tea, offering a more layered experience. The finish is where B524 truly shines—cinnamon, Mexican chocolate, and barrel char linger in a slow fade, leaving behind a warmth that invites another sip.

Distiller’s Background

As one of the last family-owned distilleries in Kentucky, Heaven Hill is no stranger to producing some of the industry's most beloved bourbons. The Larceny Barrel Proof series is a direct nod to the Old Fitzgerald legacy, continuing its tradition of wheated mash bills and full-flavored character. Master Distiller Conor O’Driscoll leads the charge, ensuring each release stays true to the brand’s heritage while allowing room for bold, new expressions. With B524, Heaven Hill demonstrates that even a misstep (like the spice-heavy A124) can quickly be corrected with a release that brings depth, balance, and a lingering, memorable finish.

Serving Suggestions

Larceny Barrel Proof B524 is a whiskey that demands attention. Neat in a Glencairn glass allows its full profile to unfold, but a few drops of water can help open up even more of the dark fruit and chocolate notes. If cocktails are more your style, this batch makes a phenomenal base for a bold Old Fashioned—consider using a cinnamon-infused syrup to highlight its finish. Given its high proof, it's best enjoyed in a slow sip, ideally with good company and a long evening ahead.