Buffalo Trace vs E.H. Taylor Small Batch

Last Updated on: 10th April 2024, 12:56 am

Discover the differences between Buffalo Trace vs E.H. Taylor Small Batch in this in-depth 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

Buffalo Trace vs E.H. Taylor Small Batch: Comparison

Buffalo Trace: Offers a smooth, easy-drinking experience with a warm aroma of caramel and spices, complemented by a balanced palate of caramel, vanilla, and oak, finishing with a touch of vanilla and spice. Perfect for those who enjoy a gentle sip with subtle complexity. Ideal for neat sipping, showcasing its approachable and versatile character.

E.H. Taylor Small Batch: Delivers a sweet and spicy experience, starting with a rich aroma of cherry and chocolate, moving into a palate of vanilla, caramel, and oak, and finishing with a lasting warmth of charred oak and black pepper. Suited for those who appreciate a more intense flavor profile with a bit of historical intrigue. Best enjoyed with a dash of water to unlock its full spectrum of flavors.

Key Difference: Buffalo Trace and E.H. Taylor, both from Buffalo Trace Distillery with the same mash bill as Eagle Rare and Benchmark, are aged similarly. E.H. Taylor, bottled in bond at 100 proof, differs from Buffalo Trace’s 90 proof.

Verdict: Buffalo Trace and E.H. Taylor Small Batch both highlight the craftsmanship of Buffalo Trace Distillery, offering distinct bourbon experiences: Buffalo Trace for a smooth and approachable sip, and E.H. Taylor Small Batch for a deeper dive into complexity and spice, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Best Bourbon Alternatives to the Buffalo Trace

Buffalo Trace: Smooth Sailing with Subtle Spice

• 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: Basil Hayden’s

Warm & Inviting Nose: Buffalo Trace welcomes you with a gentle aroma of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of cozy baking spices. Think freshly baked cookies cooling on a rack.

Spice & Oak Dance on the Palate: Don’t be fooled by the subtle nose. The flavor profile gets bolder with oak and fruity notes joining the party, balanced by sweet caramel and vanilla. Think autumn harvest pie with a sprinkle of pepper for complexity.

Smooth & Easy Sip: This bourbon is all about approachability. The soft, chewy mouthfeel makes for a smooth and enjoyable experience with minimal heat. Think sipping on a warm blanket on a chilly night.

Satisfying Finish, Not a Marathon: The finish might not linger forever, but it leaves a pleasant impression with lingering vanilla and baking spice notes. Think campfire embers with a sweet aftertaste.

Well-Rounded & Easygoing: Buffalo Trace is a jack-of-all-trades bourbon. It’s great neat or on the rocks, offering a balanced and enjoyable experience. Think of it as your reliable friend, always there for a good time.

Not a Cocktail Chameleon: While delicious, its subtlety might not make it the star of intricate cocktails. Think of it as a solo act, not part of a complex performance.

Bonus Facts: Made with a secret blend, aged with unique temperature variations, and crafted in small batches. Now that’s some bourbon intrigue!

Overall: Buffalo Trace is a solid choice for those seeking a smooth and easy-drinking bourbon with a touch of spice. It’s great for casual sipping or enjoying neat. Just remember, it might not be the flashiest ingredient for your next cocktail masterpiece. Cheers!

E.H. Taylor Small Batch: A Sweet & Spicy Sip with History

• Nose: Cherry, tobacco, chocolate, cinnamon, caramel
• Palate: Vanilla, caramel, spice, oak
• Finish: Charred oak, black pepper, vanilla, cherry
• Alcohol content: 100 proof (50% ABV)
• How to drink: Add water
• Similar to: E.H. Taylor Single Barrel

Cherry Chocolate Nose: Uncork a bottle of E.H. Taylor Small Batch and inhale the inviting aroma of cherry, chocolate, and tobacco, with a hint of warmth that fades with time. Think fancy dessert shop with a touch of aged charm.

Light Red & Rich: The unique light red hue adds to the intrigue. Take a sip and experience the thick, oily texture that coats your tongue. Don’t be surprised by an initial burst of heat and bitterness, but trust us, it gets better.

Sweet & Spicy Transformation: As the heat subsides, a wave of sweet vanilla, fruity flavors, and a touch of spice and oak washes over you. Think warm summer pie with a sprinkle of pepper for complexity.

Lingering Finish: The real star of the show is the finish. Imagine charred oak, black pepper, and lingering hints of vanilla and cherry, leaving a satisfying warmth that lingers long after the last sip. Think campfire embers with a sweet aftertaste.

Unlock the Brown Sugar: Want to elevate the experience? Add a dash of water! This releases hidden brown sugar notes, adding another layer of sweetness to the mix. Think caramel drizzle on your dessert.

Affordable Complexity: This bourbon is a solid choice, offering Blanton’s-like complexity with a slightly hotter kick and a more wallet-friendly price tag. Think classic bourbon with a modern twist.

Bonus Facts: Aged 7 years, bottled in bond, comes from a historic warehouse, and honors a bourbon legend. Now that’s a story worth sipping on!

Overall: E.H. Taylor Small Batch is a delicious and complex bourbon with a unique history. If you enjoy sweet and spicy flavors with a satisfying finish, this bottle is worth exploring. Just be prepared for the initial heat and embrace the water-unlocked brown sugar magic! Cheers!

Price Comparison

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Whiskey	Price
Buffalo Trace	$35
E.H. Taylor Small Batch	$80