The Mastery of E.H. Taylor: A Tribute to Bourbon Excellence

E.H. Taylor bourbons represent not just a drink, but a storied tradition in the world of whiskey. Born from the legacy of Colonel Edmund Haynes Taylor, Jr., these bourbons are a testament to a man's relentless pursuit of perfection and his profound influence on the bourbon industry. With a lineage dating back to the post-Civil War era, E.H. Taylor's innovations and dedication have left an indelible mark, culminating in a range of bourbons celebrated for their depth, complexity, and exceptional quality.

A Legacy Cast in Copper and Oak

Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. was instrumental in establishing the foundations of what bourbon is today. His introduction of copper fermentation tanks, state-of-the-art grain equipment, and climate-controlled aging warehouses at the O.F.C. Distillery, which later became Buffalo Trace, revolutionized bourbon production. His commitment to quality and innovation is reflected in every bottle of E.H. Taylor bourbon, a collection that spans from foundational expressions to rare, limited editions each capturing a unique aspect of bourbon craftsmanship.

The E.H. Taylor Collection: A Spectrum of Excellence

The E.H. Taylor lineup is a showcase of bourbon-making at its finest, with each expression offering a distinct experience rooted in the same commitment to quality.

Small Batch: The Quintessential Sip

The Small Batch is often the introduction to the E.H. Taylor series, offering a balanced and approachable profile with notes of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of oak. It's a testament to Taylor's pioneering bottled-in-bond legacy, ensuring the highest standards.

Single Barrel: Uniquely Taylor

Each Single Barrel bottle is a unique expression of the E.H. Taylor crafting process. Aged in Warehouse C, built by Taylor himself, these bottles offer a singular tasting experience, where nuanced flavors of dark fruits, vanilla, and tobacco shine through.

Barrel Proof: Untamed and Unfiltered

The Barrel Proof is a robust offering, bottled directly from the barrel without dilution. This expression highlights the raw beauty of Taylor's bourbon, with a palate that balances spicy, sweet, and woody notes, culminating in a rich and complex bourbon.

Rye: A Spicy Departure

Diverging from the corn-based mashbill, the Straight Rye is a spicy, full-bodied whiskey that stands out in the collection. It's a nod to the versatility and breadth of Taylor's whiskey-making philosophy, offering something distinctly different yet equally esteemed.

The Limited Editions: Rare Gems

E.H. Taylor's limited editions, such as the Cured Oak, Seasoned Wood, Four Grain, and the celebrated 18 Year Marriage, are masterclasses in bourbon complexity and craftsmanship. Each limited release, from the richly layered Cured Oak aged in specially cured barrels to the Four Grain's harmonious blend of corn, rye, wheat, and malted barley, showcases the innovative spirit of E.H. Taylor. These bottles are highly sought after, not just for their exquisite taste but for their connection to bourbon history.

Savoring the Legacy

E.H. Taylor bourbons are more than just spirits; they are a journey through the history and art of bourbon making. Each sip is a tribute to Colonel Taylor's enduring legacy, his innovations, and his uncompromising standards that have shaped the bourbon industry. From the robust Barrel Proof to the rare and nuanced profiles of its limited editions, E.H. Taylor offers a bourbon experience that is both deep in heritage and rich in flavor.

For aficionados and collectors, E.H. Taylor bourbons represent the pinnacle of American whiskey, offering a diverse palette of flavors that celebrate the past while continuing to inspire the future of bourbon craftsmanship. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as the foundation of a sophisticated cocktail, E.H. Taylor bourbons invite you to explore the rich tapestry of stories, flavors, and traditions that are encapsulated in every bottle.

What makes E.H. Taylor bourbons unique?

E.H. Taylor bourbons are unique due to their strict adherence to the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897, a law that Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. himself was instrumental in passing. This act ensures the bourbon is the product of a single distillation season, by a single distiller, at a single distillery, and has been aged in a federally bonded warehouse for at least four years and bottled at 100 proof. This commitment to quality and transparency has set E.H. Taylor bourbons apart, offering a level of purity and consistency in each bottle.

Who was Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr.?

Colonel Edmund Haynes Taylor, Jr. was a significant figure in the bourbon industry, often referred to as the father of the modern bourbon industry. He was known for his innovative distilling techniques, high-quality standards, and for being a key advocate for the Bottled-in-Bond Act. Taylor's contributions to the industry have left a lasting legacy, influencing the way bourbon is produced and perceived today.

What are some of the most sought-after E.H. Taylor bottles?

The E.H. Taylor lineup includes several highly sought-after bottles, such as:

• E.H. Taylor, Jr. Small Batch: A staple for bourbon enthusiasts, known for its balanced and classic profile.
• E.H. Taylor, Jr. Single Barrel: Selected from exceptional barrels for its unique flavor characteristics.
• E.H. Taylor, Jr. Barrel Proof: An uncut and unfiltered bourbon, offering a robust and intense bourbon experience.
• E.H. Taylor, Jr. Four Grain: A limited edition that uses a rare four-grain mash bill, providing a distinct and complex flavor profile.
• E.H. Taylor, Jr. Warehouse C Tornado Surviving: A highly rare edition that gained legendary status after surviving a tornado, which exposed the aging barrels to unique conditions.

How does the mash bill of E.H. Taylor bourbons affect their flavor?

E.H. Taylor bourbons are crafted using Buffalo Trace’s Mash Bill #1, believed to be a low-rye recipe. This mash bill contributes to the bourbons' smooth and well-rounded profile, with a sweet and rich character complemented by subtle spice from the rye. The choice of grains, along with the careful aging process, results in a bourbon that is complex yet balanced, with layers of flavor that unfold with each sip.

Can E.H. Taylor bourbons be used in cocktails?

While E.H. Taylor bourbons are often enjoyed neat or with a splash of water to appreciate their complex flavors fully, they can also make an excellent base for cocktails. The Small Batch and Single Barrel expressions, with their balanced profiles, are particularly versatile for classic bourbon cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan, adding depth and character to these traditional drinks.