Colonel E.H. Taylor Small Batch + Sazerac Rye

Combining Colonel E.H. Taylor Small Batch and Sazerac Rye creates an exciting tasting experience that showcases the best of both bourbon and rye whiskey. Both of these spirits are produced by Buffalo Trace Distillery and are highly regarded in the whiskey community. Here’s a detailed overview of each, along with how they complement each other:

Colonel E.H. Taylor Small Batch

Overview:
Colonel E.H. Taylor Small Batch is a premium bourbon that pays homage to the legacy of Colonel Edmund Haynes Taylor Jr., a pioneer in the bourbon industry. This bourbon is crafted using traditional methods and is known for its rich flavor and complexity.

Flavor Profile:

• Nose: The aroma is inviting, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, accompanied by hints of spice and dried fruit.
• Palate: On the palate, it is rich and full-bodied, featuring flavors of sweet corn, honey, and a touch of baking spices. The mouthfeel is smooth and well-rounded.
• Finish: The finish is long and warming, with lingering notes of vanilla, oak, and a hint of spice.

Proof:
Colonel E.H. Taylor Small Batch is typically bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV), providing a robust and flavorful experience.

Sazerac Rye

Overview:
Sazerac Rye is a premium rye whiskey that is named after the classic Sazerac cocktail, which is one of the oldest known cocktails in the United States. This whiskey is known for its spicy character and smooth finish, making it a favorite among rye enthusiasts.

Flavor Profile:

• Nose: The aroma is vibrant and spicy, with notes of rye grain, pepper, and hints of citrus and vanilla.
• Palate: On the palate, Sazerac Rye is smooth and well-balanced, featuring flavors of baking spices, caramel, and a touch of mint. The rye spice is prominent but not overwhelming, making it approachable.
• Finish: The finish is clean and crisp, with lingering notes of spice and a hint of sweetness.

Proof:
Sazerac Rye is typically bottled at 90 proof (45% ABV), providing a flavorful yet smooth experience.

Tasting Experience: Colonel E.H. Taylor Small Batch + Sazerac Rye

When tasting Colonel E.H. Taylor Small Batch alongside Sazerac Rye, you can appreciate the distinct characteristics of each whiskey while also exploring how they complement one another:

1. Contrast in Flavor Profiles:

   • The rich, sweet notes of the Colonel E.H. Taylor Small Batch contrast beautifully with the spicy, grain-forward profile of Sazerac Rye. This contrast allows for a dynamic tasting experience where each sip reveals different layers of flavor.

2. Versatile Pairing:

   • Both whiskeys can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails. You can experiment with creating classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned or the Manhattan using Colonel E.H. Taylor Small Batch, while Sazerac Rye is perfect for crafting a traditional Sazerac cocktail.

3. Cocktail Creation:

   • Consider mixing a cocktail that incorporates both spirits. For example, a variation of the Sazerac cocktail could use Colonel E.H. Taylor Small Batch as the base bourbon, adding a splash of Sazerac Rye for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

4. Flavor Exploration:

   • Tasting them side by side allows you to explore the nuances of each whiskey. You might notice how the sweetness of the bourbon enhances the spiciness of the rye, creating a well-rounded flavor experience.

Conclusion

The combination of Colonel E.H. Taylor Small Batch and Sazerac Rye offers a delightful exploration of bourbon and rye whiskey. Each spirit brings its own unique characteristics to the table, allowing for a rich tasting experience that highlights the craftsmanship of Buffalo Trace Distillery. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, this pairing is sure to please whiskey enthusiasts and newcomers alike.