When I first encountered the 1792 Full Proof Bourbon, I was intrigued by its reputation as a bold and flavorful whiskey. As a bourbon enthusiast, I’m always excited to discover new expressions and share my thoughts with fellow whiskey lovers. In this article, I’ll be diving into a detailed review of this intriguing bourbon, discussing its flavor profile, price point, and its origins at the historic Barton 1792 Distillery.
As soon as I poured a glass of 1792 Full Proof, I noticed its burnt amber color and the striking legs that seemed to go on for days. The whiskey is bottled at its original 125 barrel entry proof, presenting a strong and full-flavored experience that combines smoky and sweet notes. But it’s not all smooth sailing – many reviews I came across describe the bourbon as having a marked spicy heat that can be both unbalanced and overbearing at times.
Before I delve deeper into my own tasting notes, let’s take a moment to appreciate 1792 Full Proof’s heritage at the Barton 1792 Distillery. As I continue with the review, I’ll explore how aspects of the distillery’s production methods may contribute to the flavor nuances found in 1792 Full Proof Bourbon.
Table of Contents
1792 Full Proof Bourbon Overview
Product History
The 1792 Full Proof Bourbon is produced by the Barton 1792 Distillery, a renowned company in the world of bourbon. This distillery was established in 1879 and is the oldest fully operational distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky. The Full Proof Bourbon was released in May 2016 by Sazerac Company Inc., the parent company of Barton 1792.
I find the 1792 Full Proof Bourbon unique as it is bottled at its original 125 barrel entry proof. This means it maintains the same proof it had when the barrels were first filled, giving it a distinct and robust flavor profile.
Price Range
The price of 1792 Full Proof Bourbon may vary depending on location, but it generally ranges from $50 to $70 for a bottle. Considering its deep and smoky taste with sweet vanilla and caramel notes, many bourbon lovers find the bourbon to be a great value for the price.
Mashbill and Distillery Process
The mashbill of 1792 Full Proof Bourbon is not officially disclosed, but it’s rumored to be around 75% corn, 15% rye, and 10% malted barley. This bourbon is aged in American white oak barrels, which contributes to its rich copper color and orange hue.
The filtering process for this bourbon does not include chill filtration, allowing it to retain its natural flavors and oils. Instead, a plate and frame filter is used to separate any impurities before bottling, resulting in a cleaner, more refined taste.
Age Statement
Although the 1792 Full Proof Bourbon comes with no age statement on the bottle, the press release mentions an age of 8.5 years. This gives the bourbon enough time in the barrel to develop its bold and smoky flavor, while also allowing for the sweet and caramel undertones to shine through.
To sum it up, the 1792 Full Proof Bourbon is a flavorful expression with a rich history, originating from the Barton 1792 Distillery in Kentucky. Offering a bold taste profile with a reasonable price range, it’s no wonder why it has gained popularity among bourbon enthusiasts like myself.
photo source: 1792bourbon.com
Tasting Notes
Aroma
Upon nosing the bourbon, I immediately noticed the sweet aroma of caramel and vanilla. There was also a hint of oak and lovely fruitiness, with subtle notes of orange and apple. Rye spice was present, but not overpowering, bringing a nice balance to my senses.
Flavor
As I took my first sip, I could taste the rich, bold flavors of caramel and butter dancing on my palate. The high proof added some heat, but it wasn’t overwhelming. The fruity notes started to develop further, as dark fruits and citrus flavors made themselves known alongside the more traditional vanilla and oak notes. I couldn’t help but remember the dark chocolate and mint flavors that reminded me of a dessert.
Finish
The finish was a delightful experience. It started with a warm, smoky sensation that lingered, then gradually evolved into a dry oak flavor. As the finish progressed, I began to appreciate the subtle sweetness of the Sweet Wheat and Port Finish, much like some Buffalo Trace offerings. The mouthfeel was smooth and velvety, with the rye adding a bit of spiciness towards the end.
Rating
Here’s my personal rating for the 1792 Full Proof Bourbon:
- Aroma: 4/5
- Flavor: 4/5
- Finish: 4/5
- Overall: 4/5
Overall, my experience with the 1792 Full Proof Bourbon was enjoyable. It definitely held its own when compared to Elijah Craig, Stagg Jr., and other barrel proof offerings. The combination of a rich flavor profile, the presence of heat, and a solid finish makes this bourbon a great addition to any whiskey collection.
Mixing and Pairing
Best Mixers
When it comes to mixing 1792 Full Proof bourbon, I’ve found that the best mixers tend to complement its rich flavor and oakiness while taming some of its heat. Some of my favorite mixers for this high-proof bourbon include:
- Ginger Ale: Pairs well with the spiciness of the rye and brings out the fruitiness.
- Soda Water: Adds a refreshing element while allowing the oak and aged flavors to shine.
- Orange Juice: This citrus mixer highlights the orange and apple notes in the bourbon.
Cocktail Suggestions
photo source: Shutterstock.com
If you’re looking to craft some cocktails using the bourbon, I’d recommend trying these:
- 1792 Old Fashioned:
- 2 oz 1792 Full Proof bourbon
- 1 sugar cube
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange twist for garnish
Muddle the sugar cube and bitters in a mixing glass, add the bourbon and ice, stir until well chilled, and strain into a rocks glass with a large ice cube. Garnish with an orange twist.
- Barton 1792 Sour:
- 2 oz 1792 Full Proof bourbon
- 75 oz fresh lemon juice
- 5 oz simple syrup
- 1 egg white
- Lemon wheel for garnish
Add all ingredients to a shaker without ice, shake well to emulsify the egg white, add ice, and shake again until well chilled. Strain into an old-fashioned glass with ice and garnish with a lemon wheel.
Food Pairings
photo source: Shutterstock.com
When enjoying 1792 Full Proof bourbon, there are a few food pairings that can enhance its flavors and create a more enjoyable dining experience. Here’s what I suggest:
- Grilled Meats: The richness and heat of the bourbon can stand up to the bold flavors of steaks, ribs, or chops, creating a fantastic pairing.
- Dark Chocolate: The oak, fruitiness, and spiciness of the bourbon complement the bitter-sweetness of dark chocolate, making for a delicious dessert pairing.
- Aged Cheeses: Pair your 1792 Full Proof bourbon with a strong, aged cheese to highlight the cask strength and oak characteristics of the drink.
With these mixers, cocktails, and food pairings, you can enjoy 1792 Full Proof bourbon to its fullest, showcasing the unique flavors of this Barton 1792 Distillery release. Remember to drink responsibly and enjoy the experience.
Conclusion
In my experience, 1792 Full Proof Bourbon is certainly an intriguing expression from the Barton distillery in Kentucky. Upon tasting, I noticed a pleasant balance of heat and flavor that developed over time. During the first 20-30 minutes, it came across quite fiery, but it mellowed out after 30-40 minutes, making for an enjoyable sip when treated with respect.
From a broader perspective of the 1792 lineup, I found this bourbon to have some unique characteristics. The palate featured notes of cinnamon, honey, and a hint of fruitiness, which gave a refreshing twist to this high-rye bourbon. In comparison to other offerings like Small Batch, I found the Full Proof to have its own distinct charm, despite any potential shortcomings.
It’s fascinating to see how 1792 Full Proof Bourbon stands in the landscape of American whiskeys. Within the Sazerac family, which also includes labels like Elijah Craig, the Full Proof holds its ground as an interesting option for those who appreciate a bit of a kick in their bourbon. Overall, I think it’s a solid choice for anyone looking to explore the diversity of flavors available in bourbons from the USA.
So, if you’re a fan of trying unique expressions and can handle the heat, I would recommend giving 1792 Full Proof Bourbon a try!
