First Impressions
1792 Small Batch — named for the year Kentucky became the 15th US state. From Barton 1792 Distillery in Bardstown, the oldest fully-operating distillery in the town. Originally released as 'Ridgemont Reserve 1792,' later simplified. Now owned by Sazerac.
The High-Rye Character
High-rye mashbill, bottled at 93.7 proof (46.85% ABV). The distillery sits on 196 acres with 29 barrel warehouses. In one notable blind tasting, 1792 Small Batch outperformed Blanton's — proof that price doesn't always correlate with quality.
Tasting
Cherry and cinnamon raisin bread nose with vanilla. Chewy palate of honey, liquorice, and dried orange peel with roasted oak. Medium finish with rye spice leading into caramel. Bold character for the price.
The Verdict
1792 Small Batch earns a 7 — strong value bourbon in the sub-£35 category. The high-rye mashbill gives it more character than sweeter bourbons at the price. A reliable daily sipper named after the birth of bourbon's home state.
