Whiskey Review: Colonel E.H. Taylor Jr. Four Grain Bourbon

Colonel E.H. Taylor Jr. Four Grain Bourbon is a small batch, limited release whiskey in the Colonel E.H. Taylor Jr. line. A four grain bourbon is an unusual style, but Buffalo Trace claims the mash bill of corn, malted barley, rye, and wheat is part of “honoring tradition.” Apparently, these were the four grains available to Colonel Edmond Haynes Taylor Jr. when he was originally bottling bourbon in the 1800’s. The brand also uses labeling similar to the original bottling, and even ships in wooden crates.

“The impetus behind this multi grain recipe was based on the success of Buffalo Trace’s existing rye and wheat bourbons, harkening back to Taylor’s thinking of using the best of the best, “ says a prepared statement from Buffalo Trace Distillery about this release. “We wanted to extract everything we like from both the rye and the wheat mashbills we currently use and combine them to see how they react,” said Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley. “Not surprisingly, it added complexity to the finished product.”

Also unusual, the four grain is a BiB whiskey, meaning it’s Bottled-in-Bond. To be a certified BiB, the requirements are stringent. The whiskey is made in one distillation season at a single distillery, then kept in a federally bonded warehouse under U.S. government supervision for at least four years (this one aged for 12), and lastly bottled at a perfect 100 proof. The BiB label must identify the distillery and bottling location as well. Quite a process! 

Tasting Notes: Colonel E.H. Taylor Jr. Four Grain Bourbon

Vital Stats: This spirit, made from corn, malted barley, rye and wheat, was distilled in 2005, and weighed in at 104 proof when barreled, aged 12 years, and then bottled at 100 proof. It retails for $69.99-85, and is a limited release. The next release is planned for spring 2018.

Appearance: This bourbon has a deep amber or ash wood color, with a touch of the aged oranges you sometimes see in cognac. It’s sun kissed, bronzed, and I can see yellow tinges around the edges of the glass. Legs are well spaced, slow and lingering.

Nose: Complex smells of sweet cinnamon, custard, and pecan pie take over this tantalizing scent, with hints of charred orange, salted caramel, vanilla and nutmeg, as well.

Palate: This opulent whiskey is sweet and spicy, with tingling oak spice on the front end, followed by lingering vanilla ice cream, and buttery pecan pie. Charred barrel and cinnamon toast make nice compliments and a little hint of tangy, astringent perfume, orangey like Grand Marnier, underpins the richness.