Welcome to Day 2 of The 12 Days of Bourbon Christmas! As we continue this festive journey, we’re diving into the world of small-batch bourbons—a category that celebrates craftsmanship, consistency, and exceptional flavor. Today’s featured bourbon is Elijah Craig Small Batch, a bottle that’s often referred to as one of the best values in bourbon. With its rich history, balanced profile, and accessible price point, Elijah Craig Small Batch earns its spot as a holiday favorite. Let’s explore what makes this bourbon so special.
The Story Behind Elijah Craig
Elijah Craig is a name steeped in bourbon history. Often credited as the “Father of Bourbon,” Reverend Elijah Craig was a Baptist preacher and entrepreneur who lived in Kentucky during the late 1700s. While the legend claims he was the first to age whiskey in charred oak barrels—a process that gives bourbon its signature flavor—modern historians debate this. Regardless, the Elijah Craig name has become synonymous with tradition and innovation in bourbon-making.
For more about the fascinating story behind Elijah Craig, check out my blog post titled “Elijah Craig: The Man Behind the Legend,” where I dive deeper into his life, the myths, and the impact he left on the bourbon industry.
The Elijah Craig Small Batch bourbon we know today is crafted by Heaven Hill Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky. Heaven Hill is a family-owned operation and one of the largest producers of bourbon in the world, but they’ve managed to maintain the quality and care that make Elijah Craig Small Batch a standout.
Tasting Notes
Elijah Craig Small Batch invites you in with an aroma that feels like stepping into a cozy kitchen on a winter evening. The nose is rich and warm, offering layers of caramel and vanilla that immediately wrap you in a sense of comfort, while subtle hints of toasted oak and a whisper of citrus add complexity.
Taking a sip, you’re greeted with a velvety smoothness that balances bold and delicate flavors in perfect harmony. The toffee sweetness dances across your palate, mingling with butterscotch and a gentle cinnamon spice that feels like the warm embrace of holiday cheer. There’s a nuttiness, like freshly roasted pecans, that lingers in the background, grounding the sweetness with a hint of earthiness.
The finish is where Elijah Craig truly shines. It’s long and satisfying, with a gentle warmth that spreads like a cozy blanket. Notes of sweet oak and a light peppery spice stay with you, leaving a memory of that perfect first sip and inviting you to take another. It’s a bourbon that feels timeless, like a classic holiday movie you return to year after year.
Perfect for the Holidays
Elijah Craig Small Batch is a small-batch bourbon that punches above its weight. At its price point, it offers exceptional value, making it an ideal addition to your holiday bar cart. Whether you’re serving guests at a party or enjoying a quiet evening by the fire, this bourbon shines in any setting.
For holiday pairings, consider sipping Elijah Craig alongside spiced holiday cookies, pecan pie, or roasted nuts. It also works beautifully in classic bourbon cocktails like an Old Fashioned or a Boulevardier, where its bold flavors can hold their own against the other ingredients.
A Holiday Toast
Elijah Craig Small Batch embodies the best of small-batch bourbon: tradition, quality, and value. It’s a reminder that great bourbon doesn’t have to break the bank, and its versatility makes it a perfect choice for celebrating the season. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon fan or new to the world of small-batch whiskeys, this bottle offers something to love.
As we raise our glasses to Day 2 of The 12 Days of Bourbon Christmas, let’s toast to the “Father of Bourbon” and the enduring legacy of small-batch craftsmanship. And don’t forget, for more insights into the legend of Elijah Craig, check out my earlier post “Elijah Craig: The Man Behind the Legend.” Join me tomorrow for another holiday bourbon adventure as we explore yet another classic bottle. Cheers to Elijah Craig and the spirit of the season!