Goose Island BCBS Bitter Pops Barrel Select 16.9 FL OZ.

  Goose Island Single Barrel Experience – A Historic First for Bitter Pops

On December 4, 2024, the Bitter Pops Crew had the incredible opportunity to visit the Goose Island Barrel House for the first-ever Bourbon County Brand Stout Single Barrel Selection. Welcomed by John Zadlo and the Goose Island team, we kicked off the experience with a quick tour of the legendary Barrel House before heading into the tasting room, where Mike Siegel, Senior Innovation Manager, guided us through this novel selection process.

Before us sat six unmarked barrels, each holding its own story. As a benchmark, we started with the 2024 Bourbon County Brand Stout before diving into the selection. From the first sip, we knew this was different. The complexity of flavors across the barrels ranged from tart cherry to nutty caramel, sparking an intense and passionate discussion among our team. Having participated in numerous bourbon barrel picks before, we expected a familiar experience—but this was entirely unique.

With Mike leading the way, we explored each of the six expressions before casting our votes. The decision wasn’t easy, but in the end, we sought a barrel that captured the story and magic of barrel aging—where the wood and whiskey alone, with no additives, could create something extraordinary. When the barrels were finally revealed, we selected a Heaven Hill barrel, aged 6 years. The Bourbon County Brand Stout spent an incredible 42 months in the barrel, making it the oldest BCBS ever bottled!

Tasting Notes: Rich oak, deeply roasted malt, and wine-like depth, finishing thick and decadently smooth.

This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and we are beyond honored that Bitter Pops is the first retailer to take part in the Single Barrel Experience. Even more exciting, we can now share this history-making release with you—the oldest Bourbon County Brand Stout ever bottled! 

Pick Up:

• Order online today, pick-ups start Thursday at 10:00 AM!