E.H. Taylor Small Batch bourbon is a highly sought-after spirit, renowned for its robust flavor profile and rich history. Understanding its mash bill is key to appreciating its unique character. While the exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret, we can delve into the known details and explore what contributes to this bourbon's distinctive appeal. This exploration will also answer some frequently asked questions surrounding this popular bourbon.
What is the E.H. Taylor Small Batch Mash Bill?
The precise percentages of grains used in the E.H. Taylor Small Batch mash bill are not publicly disclosed by Buffalo Trace Distillery. However, it is known to be a high-rye bourbon, meaning rye makes up a significant portion of the grain bill. This high rye content is a crucial element contributing to the bourbon's signature spicy and complex flavors. Typically, a high-rye bourbon mash bill might consist of a combination of corn, rye, and barley, with rye exceeding the percentage of corn. The exact ratio, however, remains proprietary information.
What Makes E.H. Taylor Small Batch Different?
Beyond the high-rye mash bill, several factors contribute to the distinctive taste of E.H. Taylor Small Batch:
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The Use of Sour Mash: Buffalo Trace Distillery employs the sour mash process, which involves using a portion of the spent mash from a previous distillation to inoculate the next batch. This technique introduces beneficial yeast and bacteria, influencing the fermentation and contributing to the bourbon's unique character.
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The Aging Process: The aging process plays a pivotal role in the final product. The specific barrel selection, char level, and aging time within the Buffalo Trace rickhouses contribute to the complexity and maturity of the E.H. Taylor Small Batch. These factors are not publicly disclosed, further adding to the mystique surrounding this bourbon.
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The Bottling Strength: E.H. Taylor Small Batch is bottled at a higher proof than many other bourbons, often around 90-100 proof. This higher proof intensifies the flavors and aromas, leading to a bolder and more pronounced taste.
What are the Tasting Notes of E.H. Taylor Small Batch?
While tasting notes can be subjective, common descriptors for E.H. Taylor Small Batch include:
- Spice: The high rye content contributes to pronounced notes of spice, often described as black pepper, cinnamon, and clove.
- Fruit: Subtle notes of fruit, such as dried cherry or fig, are frequently present.
- Sweetness: A balanced sweetness underlies the spice, often described as caramel or honey.
- Oak: The bourbon showcases notes of oak, reflecting its aging process in charred oak barrels.
Is E.H. Taylor Small Batch Worth the Price?
The value of E.H. Taylor Small Batch, like any fine spirit, is a matter of personal preference. Considering its high-rye mash bill, the meticulous production process, and its reputation among bourbon connoisseurs, many consider it a worthwhile investment for its quality and complex flavor profile. However, its price point may be higher than some other bourbons on the market.
Where Can I Find E.H. Taylor Small Batch?
Due to its popularity, E.H. Taylor Small Batch can be difficult to find in certain areas. Checking with local liquor stores, exploring online retailers specializing in spirits, and joining bourbon enthusiast groups can be helpful strategies for locating a bottle.
What is the difference between E.H. Taylor Small Batch and other E.H. Taylor bourbons?
The E.H. Taylor line offers several expressions, each with its own unique characteristics: Small Batch, Single Barrel, and others. While all share a common heritage and distillery, they differ in terms of their mash bill specifics, aging process, and proof, resulting in diverse flavor profiles. The "Small Batch" designation indicates a blend from multiple barrels, while "Single Barrel" represents a selection from a single barrel, leading to a more individualized flavor profile.
By understanding the nuanced factors involved in the production of E.H. Taylor Small Batch, from its high-rye mash bill to the aging process, we can appreciate the craftsmanship and complexity that make this bourbon a highly sought-after spirit. Its rich flavor profile continues to captivate bourbon enthusiasts, solidifying its place among the top-tier bourbons on the market.
