Name: Green Spot – Chateau Leoville Barton
Color: Amber
Nose: Malt, oak, red wine, sherry
Taste: Malt, heather, honey, sherry, light red wine
Green Spot Leoville Barton should now complete my review of all the “Spots”. This expression starts its life as regular Green Sport and is then aged in a combination of ex-bourbon (75%) and ex-Oloroso sherry (25%) casks for 7-10 years. After that is it placed in French Oak Casks previously used by Chateau Leoville Barton for another 12-14 months. The whisky is triple distilled, non-chilled filtered, natural color, and bottle at 46% abv.
This expression has a slight red color to it, or the lighting at the bar was throwing me off. It has a smooth medium cream body and is a little dry on the finish. The wine finish is nice and not overpowering like Montelena. The connection to Chateau Leoville Barton is because the estate was purchased by Hugh Barton in 1826 who’s family is of Irish descent.
I had both expressions at the Dead Rabbit and this one was the second tasting, and I was glad it was. When you compare the two-wine cask finishes side by side, Barton is a much smoother tasting whiskey. I found this surprising as it is Bordeaux (aka cabernet sauvignon).
Currently Ranking (2024)
#1: Green Spot Barton Leoville – $150
#2: Red Spot – $300
#3: Blue Spot – $225
#4: Gold Spot – $185
#5: Green Spot Chateau Montelena – $150/$200
#6: Green Spot – $75
#7: Yellow Spot – $100
Priced around $150 and around $35 for 2 oz at Dead Rabbit in NYC. It is the best “Spot” for the flavor profile and price.
If you like it, drink it! – Chris
If you like it, drink it!
