Last Updated on: 10th April 2024, 01:01 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 the differences between E.H. Taylor Single Barrel vs Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel 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
E.H. Taylor vs Elmer T. Lee: Which Wins?
E.H. Taylor Single Barrel Bourbon: An elegant dance of caramel, cinnamon, and vanilla with a long, satisfying finish of old leather and oak. A seamless blend of sweetness and spice at 100 proof.
Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel Bourbon: A light touch of floral and honey notes, followed by a delicate mix of vanilla, cherry, and oak. A soft, sweet finish with a hint of spice at 90 proof.
Key Difference: E.H. Taylor and Elmer T. Lee share a production origin at Buffalo Trace Distillery, yet they differ in mash bill composition. E.H. Taylor employs a mash low in rye akin to Buffalo Trace and Eagle Rare, while Elmer T. Lee’s mash bill is more aligned with Blanton’s, featuring a slightly higher rye content.
Verdict: E.H. Taylor Single Barrel offers a rich, full-bodied experience, perfect for those who appreciate a deep, complex flavor profile. Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel, with its lighter, more delicate flavors, suits those looking for an easy-drinking bourbon with a gentle finish. Both bourbons present a unique tasting journey, celebrating the heritage and craftsmanship of American whiskey making, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Top Bourbons Under $100
Savor the Elegance of E.H. Taylor Single Barrel Bourbon

- Nose: Caramel charred oak, cinnamon
- Palate: Vanilla, caramel, cinnamon, oak
- Finish: Long, caramel, vanilla, old leather, oak
- Alcohol content: 100 proof (50% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Blanton’s Single Barrel
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A Journey for the Senses
The moment you bring the glass close, you’re greeted with a heartwarming blend of caramel, cinnamon, and charred oak. Give it time, and it unfolds layers of honey and aged leather, telling stories of its rich heritage.
As it graces your palate, the bourbon reveals its silky smooth essence, a dance of vanilla and caramel that feels like velvet. Cinnamon and charred oak weave through the profile, adding intriguing depth without overshadowing the sweetness.
The spiciness is like a whisper, a gentle nudge that makes the sweetness sparkle even more. This bourbon isn’t just tasted; it’s experienced, with each sip more captivating than the last.
And the finale? A lingering embrace of caramel and vanilla, with hints of leather and oak making a graceful exit. It’s not just a taste but a memory, one that stays with you, rich and satisfying.
Is E.H. Taylor Single Barrel Your Next Favorite?
With its unmatched smoothness, this bourbon is as inviting as a warm, cozy evening. There’s no bite, just a serene glide down the palate, making it perfect for sipping neat.
E.H. Taylor Single Barrel stands tall and proud, a testament to bourbon done right. Its balance of sweetness and oak, combined with a soft touch of spice, crafts a full-bodied delight.
This bourbon isn’t just a drink; it’s a piece of history. Aged for nearly 12 years, it’s a gold medalist and a high scorer, even outshining legends. It carries the legacy of Colonel E.H. Taylor, a pioneer who helped shape the bourbon world.
E.H. Taylor Single Barrel: A Bourbon of Distinction
With an aging process of 11 years and 7 months, it’s a bourbon that’s taken its time to perfect every note. Its accolades, including a Gold Medal at the Los Angeles International Wine & Spirits Competition and a 97-point score at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge, speak volumes.
Beyond its taste, it embodies the spirit of Colonel E.H. Taylor, a founding father of bourbon and a key figure in the Bottled-In-Bond Act of 1897. This isn’t just a bourbon; it’s a piece of American history, ready to be savored and celebrated.
Whether you’re a bourbon aficionado or a curious newcomer, E.H. Taylor Single Barrel offers a journey through flavors, history, and craftsmanship. It invites you to discover the essence of bourbon, one sip at a time.
Discover the Charm of Elmer T. Lee Bourbon

- Nose: Floral, honey, oak, baking spice
- Palate: Vanilla, oak, cherry
- Finish: Caramel, vanilla, spice
- Alcohol content: 90 proof (45% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Rock Hill Farms
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Aroma: A captivating embrace of sweet florals and delicate spices, like a spiced bakery with a touch of warmth.
Palate: Light-bodied and graceful, offering a harmonious blend of vanilla, cherry, and fruity notes, all woven together with a touch of oaky wisdom.
Finish: A gentle wave of cinnamon spice and caramel sweetness, rounded off by vanilla and a whisper of oak. Leaves a pleasant and lasting memory.
A Tailor-Made Experience:
- Perfect for: Those who appreciate smooth, sweet, and approachable bourbons. Ideal for newcomers or those seeking a lighter experience.
- Flavor Profile: Think soft vanilla, bright cherry, hints of fruit, and a touch of cinnamon.
- Proof: 90, offering a gentle warmth without overwhelming boldness.
- Value: Sweet spot lies around the recommended retail price. While enticing in the secondary market, its true value lies in its accessible price and enjoyment.
An Invitation to Savor:
Elmer T. Lee invites you to slow down and appreciate the finer things. It’s not about being the loudest or most complex, but about delivering a delightful and smooth experience that warms the heart and leaves you wanting more.
Transparency: This description highlights the positive aspects of Elmer T. Lee but acknowledges its lighter body and potentially lower complexity compared to bolder bourbons. This empowers readers to make informed choices based on their personal preferences.
I have also removed subjective comparisons to other bourbons and focused on describing the specific characteristics of Elmer T. Lee. Do you have any other questions about this bourbon or would you like me to review a different one?
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whiskey | Price |
| E.H. Taylor Single Barrel | $140 |
| Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel | $170 |
