Last Updated on: 10th April 2024, 09:15 pm
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Discover the differences between 1792 Small Batch vs Woodford Reserve in this head-to-head comparison and decide which Bourbon is better for You!
Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.
1792 Small Batch vs Woodford Reserve: Comparison
1792 Small Batch: A smooth blend with charred oak, banana, and cinnamon notes. Its simplicity makes it ideal for newcomers, offering a medium-length, spicy finish.
Woodford Reserve: Balances mint, honey, and vanilla aromas with a sweet and spicy palate. Its creamy texture and warm caramel finish appeal to a wide audience.
Verdict: 1792 Small Batch suits those new to bourbon or preferring straightforward flavors. Woodford Reserve is for those who enjoy a harmonious mix of sweetness and spice in a smooth bourbon, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Alternative Bourbons to Woodford Reserve
1792 Small Batch: Smooth But Simple?
- Nose: Charred oak, banana, rye spice
- Palate: Cinnamon, oak, banana, ripe fruit
- Finish: Medium-length, cinnamon, pepper, oak
- Alcohol content: 94 proof (47% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
1792 Small Batch, named for Kentucky’s statehood year, offers a smooth journey with a hint of mystery. While approachable, complexity seekers might find it lacking.
Aroma: Charred wood, banana, green apple, and rye spice mingle, evolving into creamy earthiness.
Taste: Smooth start with cinnamon that intensifies, joined by dry oak. Underlying banana and fruit hints struggle to compete with the bold spice.
Finish: Medium-length with lingering cinnamon and oak warmth, enjoyable but not complex.
Overall: Smooth and easygoing, but spice-forward and potentially one-dimensional.
Pros: Beginner-friendly, warm finish, award-winning.
Cons: Lacks complexity, not very memorable.
Bonus Tip: Pair with dark chocolate for a sweet and spicy treat.
1792 Facts: Aged statement removed in 2013, high rye content, celebrates Kentucky’s statehood, owned by Buffalo Trace, perfect score alongside Pappy 23 in 2012.
Smooth sipper seeking complexity? Look beyond. New to whiskey? 1792 might be your gateway.
Woodford Reserve: Smooth Sipping Bliss for All
- Nose: Rich in mint, honey, vanilla, citrus
- Palate: Sweet oak, cinnamon, mint, ripe fruit
- Finish: Lingering warmth and caramel
- Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
Woodford Reserve entices with its balanced character and smooth charm, making it a bourbon haven for both connoisseurs and newcomers.
Aromatic Allure: Delicate hints of wood, mint, vanilla, and caramel greet your nose, setting the stage for a delightful journey.
Palate Perfection: Sweetness and spice play in harmony, with subtle oak balanced by hints of cinnamon, mint, and fruity undertones. The creamy body pampers, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Lingering Delight: The finish leaves a lasting impression, with caramel sweetness and a satisfying warmth that lingers on the palate.
Beyond Smooth:
- Expertly Balanced: Strikes a perfect harmony between sweetness and spice, making it universally appealing.
- Creamy Delight: Smooth texture eliminates harshness for pure sipping pleasure.
- Pleasing Spice: Rich cinnamon notes add warmth and complexity, creating a delightful character.
- Versatility Personified: Enjoy neat, on the rocks, or in your favorite cocktail.
Bonus Tip: Pair with dark chocolate for a decadent flavor explosion!
Woodford Reserve Facts:
- Unique mash bill (72% corn, 18% rye, 10% barley) for a distinct taste.
- Aged 7 years for depth and maturity.
- Heat cycling during aging ensures meticulous control for optimal results.
- Award-winning (gold & double gold medals at San Francisco World Spirits Competition) quality.
- Part of the Brown-Forman family (Jack Daniel’s, Old Forester), ensuring heritage and excellence.
Woodford Reserve’s balanced profile, creamy texture, and pleasing spice notes make it a versatile and undeniably delightful choice for any bourbon enthusiast or curious newcomer.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whiskey | Price |
| 1792 Small Batch Bourbon | $33 |
| Woodford Reserve Straight Bourbon | $40 |