Colonel EH Taylor Small Batch Review: A Bourbon Journey That Will Make You Lose Your Way (In The Best Way)

As someone who’s tasted their fair share of fine spirits, let me tell you about my recent encounter with Colonel Edmund Haynes Taylor’s Small Batch Bourbon. What started as a casual evening pour turned into quite the sensory expedition.

I settled into my favorite leather armchair as I poured myself a measure of this amber treasure. The moment I brought the glass to my nose, I knew I was in for something special. The aroma wafted up with all the warmth of a summer afternoon – vanilla and caramel dancing together like longtime partners at a grand ball, while toffee sweetness brought memories of childhood county fairs rushing back.

That first sip? Well, it was smoother than a well-rehearsed jazz solo. The bourbon greeted me like an old friend – all honey-sweet handshakes and caramel embraces. There’s a subtle nuttiness there too, like perfectly toasted almonds fresh from the oven.

As I ventured deeper into this liquid expedition, the complexity revealed itself like chapters in a compelling novel. Dark chocolate notes emerged alongside cinnamon spice, creating a richness that speaks to generations of careful craftsmanship. The texture was pure velvet, coating the palate with a luxurious warmth that invited contemplation.

The finale was nothing short of spectacular – a warm, lingering goodbye that stayed with me like memories of a perfect summer evening. The sweet notes of caramel and vanilla gradually gave way to gentle oak and leather, reminiscent of a well-loved vintage leather book.

Colonel Taylor has crafted something truly remarkable here. This isn’t just bourbon – it’s a liquid history lesson in American craftsmanship. At around $40-50 a bottle (if you can find it), it’s fairly priced, though the hunt for a bottle can sometimes feel like a treasure quest.

Bottom Line: This is the kind of bourbon that makes you appreciate the art of distillation. It’s sophisticated enough for formal affairs yet approachable enough for casual evening contemplation. Just remember to savor it slowly – this is one journey worth taking your time with.

Personal Note: While I typically prefer my bourbon neat, this one also holds up beautifully with a single cube of ice. The slight dilution opens up new layers of flavor without compromising its character.