E.H. Taylor vs Henry McKenna

Last Updated on: 9th April 2024, 01:37 pm

Discover the differences between E.H. Taylor vs Henry McKenna 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

E.H. Taylor vs Henry McKenna: Comparison

E.H. Taylor Single Barrel: Smooth caramel and charred oak on the nose; vanilla and cinnamon on the palate; long, satisfying finish of caramel and oak. A balanced, luxurious bourbon experience.

Henry McKenna 10: Ethanol and vanilla start, with a palate of caramel and spices; the finish is long with caramel and oak. A bold, spirited bourbon with a unique profile.

Verdict: E.H. Taylor Single Barrel offers a refined, smooth experience for those who appreciate subtlety and depth. Henry McKenna 10, with its bold flavors and bottled-in-bond distinction, appeals to enthusiasts seeking robust character and complexity, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Top Single Barrel Bourbons

E.H. Taylor Single Barrel: A Bottled-in-Bond Gem from Buffalo Trace

• 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: Stagg Jr.

E.H. Taylor Single Barrel, bottled by the renowned Buffalo Trace Distillery, promises a smooth and exceptional bourbon experience. But can it live up to the hype? Let’s delve into its characteristics and see if it truly shines:

Aroma: It greets you with a warm embrace of caramel, charred oak, and cinnamon, followed by subtle hints of old leather and honey. Think cozy fireplace on a cool autumn day.

Taste: Dive into a buttery and smooth haven where vanilla and caramel lead the way. Subtle touches of cinnamon, oak, and gentle spice add depth without overpowering the sweetness. Imagine a luxurious dessert with a hint of complexity.

Finish: It fades smoothly, leaving lingering traces of caramel, vanilla, old leather, and gentle oak. A satisfying conclusion that doesn’t overstay its welcome.

Exceptional Balance: This bourbon boasts smooth richness, minimal heat, and the perfect amount of oak influence. Each sip is a well-orchestrated symphony of flavors, offering a truly exceptional experience.

Neat Perfection: Enjoy it pure, without the distraction of water or ice. Trust its inherent smoothness and let the flavors bloom on your palate. However, be mindful – it’s easy to enjoy a bit too much thanks to its effortless drinkability.

E.H. Taylor Single Barrel Facts:

• Aged for 11 years and 7 months, ensuring depth and character.
• Gold Medal winner at the 2012 Los Angeles International Wine & Spirits Competition.
• Scored an impressive 97 points at the 2012 Ultimate Spirits Challenge, even surpassing the 95 points awarded to Pappy 23 Year Old!
• Named after Colonel E.H. Taylor, a bourbon pioneer and instrumental figure in the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897, adding to its legacy.

Is E.H. Taylor Single Barrel worth seeking out?

If you appreciate top-notch bourbon with exceptional smoothness, balanced flavors, and historical significance, then this single barrel gem is definitely worth the effort. But remember, its popularity and limited availability might make it challenging to find.

Ultimately, the best way to discover if it suits your taste is to try it yourself! Just be prepared for a potentially smooth and delicious journey that ends too quickly.

Henry McKenna 10: A Bold Bourbon with Unique Credentials

• Nose: Ethanol, vanilla, caramel, citrus, clove, nutmeg
• Palate: Caramel, brown sugar, vanilla, oak, baking spice
• Finish: Caramel, vanilla, oak
• Alcohol content: 100 proof (50% ABV)
• How to drink: Add water
• Similar to: Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond

Henry McKenna 10 stands out in the bourbon world with its “bottled-in-bond” and single-barrel status. But does its uniqueness translate to deliciousness? Let’s uncork the details:

Aroma: The journey begins with a whiff of ethanol, soon overtaken by sweet notes of vanilla, caramel, and a hint of spice. Think warm baking cookies with a touch of mystery.

Taste: Brace yourself for an initial burst of heat, but don’t worry, it fades into pleasing sweetness. Rich flavors of vanilla and caramel dominate, accompanied by a surprising touch of menthol – an intriguing twist.

Finish: The warmth lingers with notes of ethanol, rye spice, vanilla, caramel, and subtle oak. It’s a satisfying conclusion, but the ethanol might linger for some.

Water Works Wonders: A splash of water tames the heat, allowing the other flavors to shine brighter. Experiment to find your perfect balance!

Spirited and Enjoyable: Overall, this is a bold and flavorful bourbon that packs a punch. While the initial heat might surprise some, its sweetness and unique character make it an interesting choice.

Who’s It For? If you like your bourbon flavorful and don’t shy away from a bit of heat, Henry McKenna 10 could be your new friend. It’s also great for bold cocktails that require a strong base.

But Consider This: The ethanol presence might not appeal to everyone. If you prefer smoother bourbons, this might not be your top pick.

Henry McKenna 10 Facts:

• “Bottled-in-bond” means it’s from one distillery, season, and barrel, meeting specific age and proof requirements.
• Unique in the market as the only extra-aged, bottled-in-bond, single-barrel bourbon.
• Made with 78% corn, 10% rye, and 12% malted barley for a distinct profile.
• Acclaimed by experts like Jim Murray and Wine Enthusiast.

Ready to embark on a bold bourbon adventure? Henry McKenna 10 awaits. Just remember, its unique character might not be for everyone. Explore its depths and see if it becomes your next favorite pour!

Price comparison

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Bourbon	Price
E.H. Taylor Single Barrel	$150
Henry McKenna Single Barrel	$70