Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Barrel Proof (Batch 15, 127.2 Proof)

Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Barrel Proof Bourbon Whiskey is crafted from hand-selected barrels, this bourbon is bottled directly from the barrel; uncut and unfiltered at more than 125 proof. It reflects the way whiskey was produced in the days before Prohibition, when Edmund Haynes Taylor, Jr. was the owner of Buffalo Trace Distillery. Drawn from barrels aged in warehouses constructed over a century ago under Taylor's watchful eye, the taste is smooth, yet powerful and uncompromising, just like its namesake.

This 127.4 proof version of E.H. Taylor Barrel Proof is a stunner that will challenge you every step of the way. The nose is a fantastic array of sweet and spicy while the finish is extraordinarily long and rewarding. At times, the palate can drink hotter than its proof would lead you to believe, adding a few drops of water settles it down nicely into rich, dark layers of bourbon goodness. You won’t find the strong fruity character of other E.H. Taylor expressions, and instead will be rewarded with cinnamon, dark wood, with a hint of cherry woven throughout.

This release is best enjoyed neat in a Glencairn or tulip glass, allow a minute for the rich aromas to open after bottling. Because of its high proof, add a single drop of water or a large ice cube if desired, which will open further layers of dark fruit and oak without diluting the experience. Best enjoyed slowly to appreciate the evolving complexity. Pairs well with dark chocolate, toasted pecans or a bold cigar.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: rich cacao butter, rum cake, and butterscotch candies.

Palate: notes of cinnamon sweet bread which are balanced against a strong, toasted oak backbone. Adding a few drops of water brings out notes of sandalwood, burnt coffee grounds, and Werther’s Originals.

Finish: Long finish with a big Kentucky hug that settles nicely deep into the chest. The lingering finish is full of old wood, baking spices, and one last flash of cinnamon.