Benchmark vs Henry McKenna; Bourbon Comparison

Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 01:39 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 Benchmark vs Henry McKenna 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.

Written by: J Highland

Benchmark vs Henry McKenna: Comparison

Benchmark Bourbon: Offers a pleasant nose of maple, vanilla, and banana bread, leading to a palate and finish dominated by vanilla, caramel, and oak spice. It’s an affordable and smooth option for those new to bourbon.

Henry McKenna Bourbon: Features aromas of caramel and vanilla with a simple yet smooth palate of caramel, vanilla, corn, and oak spice. An easy-drinking bourbon that provides good value.

Verdict: “Both Benchmark and Henry McKenna bourbons present themselves as smooth, budget-friendly options for everyday enjoyment. Benchmark leans towards a sweeter, more aromatic experience, while Henry McKenna offers a straightforward, classic bourbon taste. “, states whisky expert Neil Coleman.

Benchmark Bourbon: A Budget-Friendly Option

Nose: Maple, vanilla, banana bread
Palate: Caramel, cinnamon, oak
Finish: Vanilla, oak spice, caramel
Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
How to drink: Add water
Similar to: Buffalo Trace

Looking for a smooth and easy-drinking bourbon without breaking the bank? Benchmark, from the acclaimed Buffalo Trace Distillery, might just be your answer. This affordable choice shares the same mash bill as renowned names like Eagle Rare and Buffalo Trace but with a shorter 2-year age statement and lower 80-proof bottling.

Aromatic Allure: On the nose, Benchmark entices with sweet notes of maple syrup, vanilla, and even a hint of banana bread. It’s a pleasant and inviting fragrance, setting the stage for a smooth sip.

Tasteful Simplicity: The palate is thin and light, showcasing basic vanilla and caramel flavors. While it lacks the complexity of pricier bourbons, it avoids the harshness sometimes found in similar options. Hints of oak spice add a touch of maturity.

Fleeting Finish: The finish is brief and subtle, leaving behind lingering traces of vanilla, caramel, and oak. It’s clean and gentle, without any lingering heat.

Value for Your Buck: While not boasting award-winning depth, Benchmark shines in its affordability. It’s smooth, easy to drink neat, and avoids unpleasant surprises found in some budget-friendly spirits. However, its thinness and lack of complexity might not translate well into vibrant cocktails.

Fun Facts:

Aged for just 2 years.
Full name: McAfee’s Benchmark Old No. 8.
Named after the McAfee brothers who journeyed west to establish what is now Kentucky.

Benchmark might not be your top-shelf choice, but for its price point, it delivers a surprisingly smooth and inoffensive experience. Consider it a no-frills option for casual sipping or mixing into simple cocktails.

The Easygoing Charm of Henry McKenna Bourbon

Nose: Caramel, vanilla, corn
Palate: Caramel, vanilla, corn, oak spice
Finish: Caramel, oak spice
Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
Similar to: Evan Williams

Light, sweet, and surprisingly smooth, Henry McKenna offers a pleasant sipping experience that belies its affordable price tag. Produced by the renowned Heaven Hill Distillery, this bourbon shares its mash bill with iconic names like Elijah Craig and Evan Williams.

Aged for at least 4 years, Henry McKenna meets the “Straight Bourbon” requirements, ensuring quality standards. While bottled at a moderate 80-proof, its smoothness reigns supreme.

Enticing Aromas: Take a whiff and discover light caramel sweetness followed by subtle hints of vanilla and corn. It’s a simple yet inviting fragrance that sets the stage for the sip to come.

Easy on the Palate: Forget about harshness – this bourbon is remarkably smooth and sweet. Caramel and vanilla notes dance on the tongue, accompanied by corn undertones that add a touch of familiarity. Gradual oak spice emerges, adding complexity without overpowering the sweetness.

Intriguing Twist: A unique mineral note adds a layer of interest, making the sip more dynamic than expected. This subtle touch elevates the experience beyond its price point.

Finish with Finesse: The finale is relatively short, leaving behind lingering whispers of caramel and oak spice. It’s pleasant and gentle, devoid of any unwanted heat.

More Than Meets the Eye: While not designed for award-winning complexity, Henry McKenna delivers excellent value. It’s smooth, sweet, and easy to drink, surpassing expectations for its price range. No off-putting surprises here, just straightforward enjoyment.

Want to Know More?

Aged at least 4 years
Mash bill: 78% corn, 12% malted barley, 10% rye

Ready to try Henry McKenna for yourself? Its affordability and easygoing nature make it a great choice for casual sippers and bourbon newcomers alike.