Spirit of the Day: Colonel E.H. Taylor Barrel Proof (USA)

Colonel E.H. Taylor Barrel Proof

Colonel E.H. Taylor Barrel Proof is a premium Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey produced by the Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky. This expression is celebrated for its raw, powerful character, as it is bottled directly from the cask without the use of water for dilution or chill filtration. It serves as a tribute to the legacy of Edmund Haynes Taylor, Jr., a central figure in the history of American whiskey production.

Producer History

The Buffalo Trace Distillery, located along the Kentucky River, traces its roots back to 1775 when the site was first settled. In 1869, Edmund Haynes Taylor, Jr. purchased the facility, which he later named the Old Fire Copper Distillery. Taylor is widely recognized as the father of the modern bourbon industry for his early implementation of copper fermentation tanks, steam-heated warehouses, and advanced grain handling techniques. Today, the distillery is a National Historic Landmark that continues to honor these traditional methods while maintaining its status as a premier producer of American spirits.

Product History

The Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. line was created to honor the pioneering spirit and dedication to quality established by Taylor during the late 19th century. This specific barrel-proof expression is crafted from hand-selected barrels that are aged in historic warehouses constructed under Taylor's supervision over a century ago. The whiskey is produced using the distillery's signature Mash Bill number one, which features a low-rye content. By bottling the spirit uncut and unfiltered at over 125 proof, the distillery aims to replicate the bold, uncompromising character of bourbon as it existed before the Prohibition era.

Taste Profile

Appearance: The whiskey displays a deep, rich amber hue that reflects its extended time in charred oak barrels.

Aroma/Nose: The nose is characterized by prominent notes of cooked berries, followed by layers of rich caramel and subtle floral undertones.

Palate: On the palate, the spirit is powerful and intense, offering a complex profile of dark fruit, toasted oak, and a lingering sweetness that balances the high alcohol content.

Finish: The finish is long and warming, leaving a lasting impression of spice and oak that highlights the quality of the aging process.

Overall Character: This bourbon is defined by its robust and unfiltered nature, providing a sophisticated experience that remains smooth despite its significant strength.

Review

Based on independent assessments from sources including Breaking Bourbon, Distiller, and Whiskey Advocate, the Colonel E.H. Taylor Barrel Proof maintains a high reputation among enthusiasts. These professional reviewers consistently praise the depth of flavor and the successful preservation of the distillery's traditional character. The averaged score across these platforms is approximately 92 out of 100 points.

Serving Guide

Glassware: Glencairn glass | Serving temperature: Room temperature | ABV: Typically 125 to 131 proof

Serving Suggestions

• Served neat to appreciate the full complexity of the uncut spirit.
• Served with a few drops of distilled water to open up the aromatic profile.
• Served over a single large ice cube to slowly mellow the intensity of the proof.

Food Pairings

• Smoked brisket or barbecue ribs, as the rich, charred notes of the meat complement the caramel and oak flavors of the bourbon.
• Dark chocolate desserts, which provide a bitter contrast to the sweetness of the whiskey.
• Aged hard cheeses like sharp cheddar or gouda, which stand up well to the high alcohol content and bold spice profile.