Last Updated on: 11th April 2024, 02:58 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 Elijah Craig Bourbon vs Elijah Craig Rye in this head-to-head comparison and decide which 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.
Written by: J Highland
Elijah Craig Bourbon vs Elijah Craig Rye: Comparison
Elijah Craig Small Batch: A spicy bourbon with wood, chocolate, and butterscotch notes. At 94 proof, it benefits from water. Great for those who enjoy a warm, spicy finish.
Elijah Craig Rye: A mildly spicy rye, leaning towards bourbon due to its low rye gran content, with vanilla and sweet grain. Also at 94 proof, perfect on the rocks or in cocktails. Ideal for those new to rye or preferring milder spice.
Verdict: Both Elijah Craig Small Batch and Elijah Craig Rye showcase the brand’s expertise in creating distinct flavors. Small Batch is for bold bourbon lovers, while Rye offers a gentler introduction to spicy spirits, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Best Elijah Craig Whiskeys
Elijah Craig Small Batch: Spicy Charm with a Warm Finish (Add Water for Smoothness)
- Alcohol content: 94 proof (47% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Knob Creek
First sniff: Oak takes center stage, followed by whispers of chocolate, cinnamon, and clove – a hint of what’s to come.
On the tongue: Spice hits first, then mellows into flavors of dark chocolate, butterscotch, vanilla, and a touch of orange.
The finish: Short and warm, with a spicy kick of cinnamon, black pepper, and clove. Butterscotch sweetness arrives late to balance the heat.
The verdict: A pleasant nose and satisfying taste, but the finish can be a bit hot and spicy. Adding a drop of water helps tame the heat and unlock more sweetness.
Here’s the thing: While enjoyable, it requires a bit more effort than other bourbons in its range. You might find smoother sippers with less commitment.
Elijah Craig Small Batch facts:
- Made using heavily charred casks, a technique pioneered by Elijah Craig himself.
- Mash bill includes corn, rye, and malted barley.
- Blends at least 200 casks aged at least 8 years.
- Previously had a 12-year age statement, now NAS (No Age Statement).
Remember: Spice preference is personal! If you enjoy a bolder, spicier bourbon, this could be your jam. But if you prefer a smoother finish, explore other options. And don’t forget the water – it can be your friend here!
Elijah Craig Rye: A Mildly Spicy Twist on Bourbon
- Alcohol content: 94 proof (47% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, Cocktails
- Similar to: Knob Creek Rye
Looking for a rye that’s smoother than your average? Elijah Craig Rye might be your match! With less rye than others, it leans towards a slightly spicier bourbon experience.
Think: Vanilla, sweet grains, baking spices, and a touch of oak char on the palate. It’s medium-bodied and finishes with a lingering spicy-minty kick.
Enjoy it: Neat or with ice. It’s not the strongest rye out there, so for classic cocktails like Old Fashioneds or Manhattans, you might want a higher-rye option.
Quick facts:
- Aged around 4 years
- Double Gold at San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2021 & 2022
Remember: Spice preference is personal! If you’re new to rye or prefer milder flavors, this could be your gateway drug. But if you crave intense rye spice, explore bolder options.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whiskey | Price |
| Elijah Craig Small Batch | $25 |
| Elijah Craig Rye | $27 |