Last Updated on: 8th April 2024, 02:46 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.
Explore the differences between Buffalo Trace vs 1792 Small Batch in my in-depth analysis, and choose your next Bourbon!
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
Buffalo Trace vs 1792 Small Batch: Comparison
Buffalo Trace: A versatile bourbon with a nose of caramel and cinnamon, leading to a palate rich in caramel, vanilla, and oak, and a finish of vanilla and baking spice. Perfect for those seeking a smooth everyday bourbon, great for sipping neat.
1792 Small Batch: Offers charred oak and banana on the nose, with a palate of cinnamon and ripe fruit, finishing with cinnamon and pepper. An accessible choice for bourbon enthusiasts, suitable for enjoying on the rocks or in cocktails.
Verdict: Buffalo Trace stands out for its smoothness and balance, making it a solid choice for daily enjoyment. 1792 Small Batch provides a straightforward, spice-forward option, appealing to those who prefer a bit more character in their sip or a whiskey to make cocktails. Both bourbons offer quality and versatility at their price points, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Buffalo Trace Similar Brands
Buffalo Trace Bourbon: A Smooth Everyday Sipper
- Nose: Caramel, cinnamon, baking spice, cereal
- Palate: Caramel, vanilla, oak, espresso coffee, chocolate
- Finish: Vanilla, baking spice, oak
- Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
- How to drink: Neat
- Similar to: Bradshaw Bourbon
Sweet and spicy aromas: Buffalo Trace greets your nose with subtle hints of caramel, vanilla, and baking spice, setting the stage for a pleasant experience.
Smooth and satisfying: The taste is gentle and approachable with a mild heat. Baking spices take center stage, joined by fruity and oaky notes for a well-balanced flavor. Caramel and vanilla sweetness add depth, creating a smooth and satisfying experience.
Enjoyable finish: The finish is moderate in length, leaving a pleasant taste of vanilla and baking spices. While not overly long-lasting, it provides a satisfying conclusion.
Overall: Buffalo Trace is a smooth and well-balanced bourbon with a medium to full body. Its easy-going nature makes it perfect for enjoying neat and ideal for those seeking an everyday sipper. However, its milder flavor may not be the best choice for bold cocktails.
Did you know?
- Buffalo Trace is aged around 6-8 years, although it carries no age statement.
- The exact mash bill (grain recipe) is a closely guarded secret.
- The unique aging process involves storing barrels in the middle floors for maximum temperature fluctuations.
- Small batches of 40 barrels are used to create each batch of Buffalo Trace.
1792 Small Batch Bourbon: A Straightforward Sipper
- 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
- Similar to: Elijah Craig Small Batch
History buffs? This bourbon’s name nods to Kentucky’s statehood year, 1792, not its founding date.
What’s it like? 1792 Small Batch offers an easy-drinking experience. Expect earthy and creamy aromas with hints of green apple and rye spice. The taste is smooth with cinnamon and oak flavors, though some may find it a bit one-sided. The finish is warm and slightly spicy, lingering with hints of cinnamon and oak.
While not the most complex bourbon, it’s forgettable for its drinkability and pleasant, albeit simple, flavors.
Additional notes:
- Previously aged for 8 years (no age statement now).
- Rye grain adds a spicy kick.
- Won awards in 2011 and 2012, but reception varies.
Remember, taste is subjective! If you’re curious, give 1792 Small Batch a try and see if it suits your preferences.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whiskey | Price |
| Buffalo Trace | $35 |
| 1792 Small Batch | $33 |