Review of E.H. Taylor Barrel Proof, 131.1 Proof
Introduction: A Classic Reimagined at Full Strength
The E.H. Taylor line of bourbons from Buffalo Trace Distillery is renowned for honoring Colonel Edmund Haynes Taylor, Jr., one of the founding fathers of the bourbon industry. The series includes some of the most sought-after expressions, with each bottle paying tribute to Taylor’s legacy through a blend of traditional methods and exceptional craftsmanship. Among the line-up, the E.H. Taylor Barrel Proof stands as a bold and uncut offering that’s intended to showcase bourbon in its most raw and unfiltered state. Bottled at a powerful 131.1 proof, this barrel-proof expression is a pure, intense experience that’s designed for the bourbon enthusiast who craves robust flavor, depth, and intensity.
What Sets It Apart: A Journey from Barrel to Bottle
E.H. Taylor Barrel Proof is crafted using a high-rye mash bill, which means that alongside corn and malted barley, rye is a key component. This adds a layer of spice that enhances the rich sweetness typically found in bourbons. What makes this offering unique is that it’s bottled straight from the barrel, without any dilution or chill-filtration. This allows the bourbon to retain all of its natural oils, flavors, and proof, delivering a whiskey that’s as close to the original barrel strength as you can get.
With no water added to bring down the proof, the result is an unbridled bourbon that is both a challenge and a reward for those who seek out big, bold flavors. Let’s explore how this intensity translates across its appearance, nose, palate, and finish.
Appearance: Deep Amber with Golden Glints
In the glass, E.H. Taylor Barrel Proof boasts a rich, deep amber hue with golden highlights. The color reflects its time spent aging in charred American oak barrels, where the whiskey develops its deep, warm tones. The thick legs that cling to the sides of the glass hint at the uncut, full-bodied nature of this bourbon, suggesting a rich, mouth-coating experience.
On the Nose: A Symphony of Classic Bourbon Notes with Added Depth
The nose is where the complexity of E.H. Taylor Barrel Proof begins to reveal itself. Upon first nosing, you’re greeted with the classic bourbon notes of caramel, vanilla, and toffee. However, these familiar aromas are amplified by the high proof, making them more pronounced and concentrated. As you delve deeper, additional layers of spice emerge—cinnamon, clove, and cracked black pepper mingle with sweeter elements like brown sugar and maple syrup.
But it doesn’t stop there. Subtle undertones of dark fruit—think dried cherries and plums—begin to weave their way through the nose, along with hints of toasted oak and a touch of tobacco. There’s a notable intensity here, but it’s well-balanced, with each aroma blending seamlessly to create a nose that’s as rich as it is inviting. For those who appreciate a deep, multi-dimensional bouquet, this bourbon offers an olfactory experience that’s both complex and satisfying.
The Palate: Bold, Powerful, and Surprisingly Nuanced
The first sip of E.H. Taylor Barrel Proof is an explosion of flavor, as expected from a bourbon bottled at 131.1 proof. The high proof delivers an immediate warmth that spreads across the palate, making it clear that this is not a bourbon for the faint of heart. But beyond the intensity lies a bourbon that’s rich, layered, and full of character.
The front of the palate is greeted by rich, sweet flavors of caramel, toffee, and vanilla, which are quickly followed by a wave of rye spice. The cinnamon and pepper notes that were present on the nose make their way onto the palate, adding a lively, tingling sensation that balances the sweetness. As the bourbon evolves on the palate, deeper notes of dark chocolate, roasted coffee beans, and oak come into play, giving the whiskey a robust, almost savory quality.
Despite the high proof, the mouthfeel is surprisingly smooth and luxurious. The natural oils that are preserved through the lack of chill filtration create a creamy, coating texture that enhances the richness of the flavors. As the whiskey continues to develop, hints of dried fruit, honey, and a touch of citrus add brightness, keeping the profile dynamic and preventing it from becoming overly heavy.
One of the most impressive aspects of this bourbon is its balance. Even at such a high proof, the sweetness, spice, and oak are harmoniously integrated, allowing each flavor to shine without overwhelming the others. Every sip offers something new, making it a bourbon that rewards those who take the time to explore its depth.
The Finish: Long, Warming, and Exceptionally Satisfying
The finish of E.H. Taylor Barrel Proof is long, warming, and thoroughly satisfying. The initial heat slowly gives way to lingering flavors of toasted oak, caramelized sugar, and a hint of baking spice. The spice remains vibrant, with notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove leaving a lasting impression. As the finish continues, a subtle dryness emerges, reminiscent of leather and tobacco, adding an extra layer of complexity.
What’s most notable about the finish is its ability to maintain balance even as the intensity fades. The warmth remains present without becoming overwhelming, allowing you to fully appreciate the depth and richness of the flavors as they slowly taper off. The finish leaves you with a gentle reminder of the bourbon’s boldness, inviting you to take another sip and explore it all over again.
A Bourbon Lover’s Dream in a Glass
E.H. Taylor Barrel Proof is a bourbon that stands as a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship that Buffalo Trace has become known for. It’s a whiskey that doesn’t shy away from its bold nature, offering an intense, full-throttle experience that’s balanced by remarkable complexity and depth. The combination of sweet, spicy, and oaky notes makes it a bourbon that’s rich and rewarding for those who appreciate big flavors and high proof.
This is not an everyday sipper—it’s a whiskey best reserved for special occasions or for those moments when you want to fully immerse yourself in a bourbon that demands your attention. The high proof makes it ideal for savoring neat, but a few drops of water can open up even more layers of flavor, allowing the subtler notes to shine through.
If you’re a bourbon enthusiast who enjoys the challenge and reward of cask-strength offerings, E.H. Taylor Barrel Proof is a must-try. It delivers a powerful experience that’s balanced by sophistication and craftsmanship, making it a worthy addition to any whiskey collection. Whether you’re enjoying it with fellow connoisseurs or savoring it solo, this bourbon is sure to leave a lasting impression as one of the most memorable expressions in the E.H. Taylor lineup.
