Last Updated on: 30th April 2024, 12:50 am
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 everything about Broken Barrel Small Batch Bourbon in this in-depth review that answers all your related questions!
Reviewed by: J Highland
Broken Barrel Small Batch: A Pleasantly Warm and Robust Rye-Forward Bourbon (Great Value)
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Broken Barrel Small Batch positions itself as a bold and satisfying choice for rye bourbon enthusiasts, particularly those on a budget. Let’s explore its strengths and weaknesses:
Strengths:
- Satisfying for the Price: Broken Barrel offers a delightful drinking experience, especially considering its attractive price point.
- High Rye Content with Character: This bourbon boasts a notable rye content, similar to established brands like Bullet Bourbon and Four Roses, delivering a spicy and flavorful profile.
- Full-Bodied & Robust: It presents a rich and full-bodied taste, perfect for those who enjoy a more substantial bourbon experience.
- Pleasant Warmth: While it has a slight peppery heat, it’s not harsh, but rather provides a satisfying warming sensation.
- Balanced & Enjoyable: The peppery notes are well-integrated for a balanced and enjoyable drinking experience.
Who Should Try It:
- Rye bourbon enthusiasts seeking a robust and flavorful option.
- Budget-conscious drinkers looking for a good value bourbon with rye spice.
Verdict:
Broken Barrel Small Batch is a fantastic choice for those who enjoy the rye spice character in bourbon. It offers a full-bodied and flavorful experience with a pleasant warming sensation, all at a very attractive price point.
While it might have a bit more heat than some other options, this translates to a satisfying warmth for many. If you’re looking for a bold and spicy nightcap bourbon without breaking the bank, Broken Barrel Small Batch is definitely worth a try, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
- Related: Best Bourbon Selections under $40
- Learn more: Broken Barrel Website
What’s unique about the Broken Barrel?
The foundation of this whiskey is Kentucky straight bourbon (70% corn, 21% rye, 9% malted barley) crafted by Owensboro Distilling Co.
After aging for 2 years the bourbon is then transferred and aged further with a combination of oak staves, including 40% former bourbon barrels, 40% new French oak, and 20% sherry cask.
Tasting Notes
- Nose: Corn Flakes, rye
- Palate: Rye spice, corn, berries, vanilla
- Finish: Rye spice, oak, vanilla
- Alcohol content: 95 proof (47.5% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
- Similar to: Bulleit
- Price: $30-$35
Broken Barrel reveals a unique aroma reminiscent of Corn Flakes.
It is complemented by subtle hints of rye spice and a fleeting touch of ethanol.
Upon tasting, this bourbon displays a rich and full-bodied texture, providing a good mouthfeel.
The flavor experience starts with a welcoming warmth that is immediately noticeable upon the first sip.
The distinct presence of rye spice takes center stage, gradually revealing delicate notes of mixed berries and a hint of vanilla, adding layers of depth and complexity.
The finish is remarkably long, leaving behind a lingering and gratifying warmth as it gracefully concludes.
FAQ
A quick FAQ to address your doubts:
How to drink it?
- Adding water releases oak and caramel, making it easier to sip.
- It is suitable for making cocktails and sits at a comfortable price range for that purpose.
- Works well in Old Fashioned with its balanced spice profile.
Mash bill
- 70% corn, 21% rye, 9% malted barley
- The higher rye content gives Broken Barrel its slightly spicier character compared to the average bourbon.
Age
- Minimum of 2 years
- Though no age statement is provided, Broken Barrel is aged for at least 2 years according to the distillery’s website.
How is Broken Barrel made?
- After initial aging, the bourbon is further aged in a steel tank with selected oak staves.
- 40% of the staves are from former bourbon barrels, 40% are new French oak, and 20% are sherry casks.
Where is Broken Barrel made?
- Owensboro Distilling Co.
- Broken Barrel Whiskey is distilled and sourced from Owensboro Distilling Co. located in Owensboro, KY.
Who owns Broken Barrel?
The company was founded by Seth Benhaim, CEO of Infuse Spirits, specializing in vodkas infused with natural ingredients.
When Benhaim entered his first vodka releases in the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, he became the youngest person to win both Best in Show and Double Gold at just 25 years old.
Alternatives
- Broken Barrel can be a substitute for Bulleit Bourbon, offering a more robust and polished experience due to its higher rye content.
- Maker’s Mark 46 is a notable alternative, known for its oaky hints, additional vanilla notes, and a refined version of the classic Maker’s Mark taste.
- Four Roses Small Batch is also worth considering, providing a well-balanced spicy bourbon with enjoyable caramel notes.
Alcohol content
- 95 proof (47.5% ABV)
Does it expire?
- Alcoholic beverages do not expire if stored properly.
- Store it in a cool place, away from sunlight.
- It is recommended to consume the whiskey once the content reaches 25% to avoid any potential development of undesirable flavors.
How did I review Broken Barrel Small Batch?
I run a pub and a liquor store, granting me extensive access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller.
My evaluations include my insights and feedback from customers and patrons and whiskey expert opinions from Neil Coleman who has been for decades in the liquor business.
I also corroborate my views with online research to ensure accuracy.
Our ratings are determined primarily by four key factors: aroma, taste, finish, and value for money. While we do consider packaging, it is of lesser importance to us, as we prioritize the quality of the liquid inside over the aesthetics of the bottle.
⭐ – Poor, ⭐⭐ – Average, ⭐⭐⭐ – Good, ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Very Good, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Excellent.
Broken Barrel Small Batch: Specs
| Type of Whisky | Bourbon |
| Age statement | 2 years |
| Proof | 95 |
| ABV | 47.5 |
| Is it good? | Yes |
| Is it top-shelf? | No |
| Does it expire? | No |
| Sweet? | Moderately |
| Warm? | A bit |
| Peaty? | No |
| Good for beginners? | No |
| Good for cocktails? | Yes |
| Good with Coke? | No |
| Calories per shot | 108 |
| Gluten-free | Yes |
| Keto-friendly | Yes |