We’ve made it to Day 12 of The 12 Days of Bourbon Christmas, and what better way to wrap up this festive journey than with a true legend: E.H. Taylor Small Batch. Named after Colonel Edmund Haynes Taylor Jr., one of the founding fathers of modern bourbon, this bottle embodies tradition, quality, and craftsmanship—making it the perfect choice to close out our series.
This decision wasn’t easy. I debated long and hard between E.H. Taylor Small Batch and Weller Special Reserve, two phenomenal bourbons that represent the best of what Buffalo Trace Distillery has to offer. Ultimately, E.H. Taylor’s rich history and its bottled-in-bond pedigree gave it the edge. It also happens to be one of my absolute favorites!
The Story Behind E.H. Taylor Small Batch
E.H. Taylor Small Batch is steeped in legacy. Colonel E.H. Taylor Jr. was instrumental in shaping the bourbon industry as we know it, championing quality standards that led to the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897. Produced at Buffalo Trace Distillery, this bourbon is crafted in small quantities to ensure consistency and excellence.
The Bottled-in-Bond label signifies adherence to strict standards: aged at least four years, bottled at 100 proof, and produced in a single distillation season at one distillery. These requirements honor Colonel Taylor’s vision of transparency and quality in bourbon production—a legacy that continues to inspire.
Tasting Notes
Pouring a glass of E.H. Taylor Small Batch feels like unwrapping the ultimate holiday gift.
The nose is classic yet inviting, with aromas of toffee, butterscotch, and dried fruit mingling with hints of oak and baking spices. It’s warm, rich, and immediately intriguing.
The first sip reveals a perfectly balanced profile. Flavors of caramel, honey, and toasted oak unfold, complemented by subtle notes of cinnamon and clove. The Bottled-in-Bond process ensures a clean, bold experience, with the higher proof adding just enough warmth to keep it lively.
The finish is long and satisfying, leaving traces of vanilla, dark chocolate, and a gentle spice that lingers like a cozy winter memory. It’s a bourbon that invites reflection—a perfect way to close out the holidays.
Why E.H. Taylor Small Batch Is the Perfect Finale
E.H. Taylor Small Batch is more than just a bourbon; it’s a celebration of everything that makes bourbon special. It’s a bottle that blends history, craftsmanship, and flavor into a single, stunning pour. Whether you’re enjoying it neat or with a single rock, this is a bourbon to savor, share, and remember.
Its bold, balanced flavor makes it an excellent choice for seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Pair it with rich holiday desserts like pecan pie, spiced bread pudding, or even a dark chocolate tart for a match made in bourbon heaven.
A Holiday Toast
As we raise our glasses to Day 12 of The 12 Days of Bourbon Christmas, let’s toast to the bottles that bring us together, the memories we’ve created, and the joy of exploring America’s Native Spirit.
E.H. Taylor Small Batch reminds us of bourbon’s rich history and its boundless future—a fitting finale for this journey. For more on the man who made it possible, read my article, “The Man Who Pioneered the Bourbon Industry,” and to better understand the Bottled-in-Bond designation, check out “Bottled in Bond: Quality Assurance in Every Sip.”
Thank you for joining me on this holiday adventure. Until next time, may your glass always be full, your table surrounded by family and friends, and your bourbon unforgettable. Cheers!