Here’s my 1792 Small Batch review in one line: a proper bourbon at a sensible price, with a name that sounds like a tax year.
What is 1792 Small Batch?
Barton 1792 Distillery is in Bardstown, Kentucky, and it belongs to Sazerac. The 1792 is the year Kentucky became a state, which is a lot of history to put on a label. It’s aged in new charred American oak, has no age statement, and it’s reckoned to be a higher-rye recipe than the cheaper stuff.
The strength is the odd bit: 46.85%, which is 93.7 proof. Someone clearly wanted that exact number.
1792 Small Batch tasting notes: nose, palate and finish
Caramel and vanilla on the nose, with a bit of baking spice and a hint of sweet oak. Nothing shy.
In the mouth it’s sweet first, then a little rye bite, some oak and a warm, peppery finish that lasts a medium amount of time. It’s got more going on than the entry-level bottles and doesn’t make a fuss about it.
1792 Small Batch: neat, with water or in a drink
Neat or with a few drops of water is good, since the 93.7 proof can take it. It also makes a solid Old Fashioned and a decent Manhattan, where the rye gives it backbone.
Is 1792 Small Batch worth the money?
At about £36 for 70 cl it sits a step above the budget bourbons and a way below the fancy ones, which is exactly where it should be. You get a stronger, more flavoursome whiskey for a few pounds more. For today’s 1792 Small Batch price, the retailer link on this page is the quickest check, and it’s worth comparing a couple of shops.
1792 Small Batch alternatives
Four Roses Small Batch is the obvious rival, Woodford Reserve is smoother and pricier, and Bulleit Bourbon is the easier-going cousin. If you want to spend less, Buffalo Trace is the safe bet.
Who should buy 1792 Small Batch?
Anyone who has done the entry-level bourbons and wants a bit more spice and a bit more strength without a big bill.
1792 Small Batch: my verdict
A well-made, spicy-sweet bourbon with real presence for the money. Not thrilling, but never disappointing. Caskable score: 75 out of 100.
Caramel and vanilla, with a little baking spice and sweet oak.
Sweet at first, then rye bite, oak and warm pepper.
Medium, warm and peppery.
A well-made, spicy-sweet bourbon with real presence for the money.
Thomas Grønvold is the founder of Caskable and a whisky enthusiast who believes the best way to learn about whisky is simply to drink it, compare it, and stay curious. From supermarket favourites to bottles from distilleries around the world, he writes about what he actually tastes and experiences, without pretending you need to be an expert to enjoy a good dram.
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