It would be interesting to share my findings with fellow whiskey enthusiasts about the fascinating whiskey called E.H. Taylor Jr. Amaranth Grain of the God. This unique bourbon is part of the Colonel E.H. Taylor Jr. lineup and was introduced as a limited release in 2019. What sets it apart is the use of Amaranth in its production, a grain known for its nutritious properties and historical significance.

As I researched further, I learned that E.H. Taylor Amaranth replaces the rye typically used in the E.H. Taylor Small Batch, Single Barrel, and Barrel Proof whiskeys. Amaranth, an ancient grain, was once considered a staple food for the Aztecs and other civilizations, earning its title “Grain of the Gods.” Now, Buffalo Trace distillery has decided to incorporate this intriguing grain into its bourbon production, resulting in a whiskey that has captured the attention of aficionados worldwide.

Eh Taylor Jr. Amaranth Overview

This limited release whiskey was quite an experience.

Product History

The E.H. Taylor Jr. Amaranth is named after the ancient grain called amaranth, once hailed as the “Grain of the Gods” by the Aztecs. This whiskey incorporates amaranth into its mashbill, which is typically composed of corn, barley, and rye. However, in this case, the amaranth replaces rye entirely. The result is a unique whiskey that celebrates an ancient ingredient that has largely been forgotten in modern times.

Buffalo Trace Distillery is known for producing a range of products, from well-known bourbons like Eagle Rare and Buffalo Trace to rare and highly sought-after selections like Pappy Van Winkle. This particular release is part of their E.H. Taylor, Jr. collection, which pays homage to Colonel Edmund Taylor, one of the founding fathers of the modern bourbon industry.

Price Range

The E.H. Taylor Jr. Amaranth has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of around $70. However, due to its limited release nature, it tends to fetch higher prices on the secondary market. If you’re lucky enough to find a bottle at retail, it can be a great addition to your whiskey collection.

Now, let’s talk about the flavor profile of this interesting bourbon. The nose offers a delightful blend of butterscotch, spearmint, honey, and vanilla, while the finish brings forth notes of pecans, dark berries, and a touch of cinnamon and orange. The amaranth grain brings an earthy and slightly bitter touch to the palate, which helps to balance out the sweetness of the corn and the other flavors derived from the oak barrel aging process.

The E.H. Taylor Jr. Amaranth is bottled at 100 proof and adheres to the bottled-in-bond regulations, ensuring a certain level of quality in terms of its production. It may not be for everyone, but it’s a distinctive whiskey that highlights the history of the amaranth grain and its potential in the world of bourbon.

Tasting Notes

Aroma

Upon pouring a glass of E.H. Taylor Jr. Amaranth, I was immediately greeted by a rich, fragrant presentation. The aroma was incredible with caramel, butterscotch, baking spices, and seasoned oak melding together wonderfully. I noticed, however, that its intensity tapered off a bit with subsequent pours on the following days.

Flavor

Taking my first sip, I found the flavor to be quite complex, yet in a refreshingly simple way. The fruit elements really stood out, adding to the intricate layers of flavor. Whether you have a preference for wheated bourbons or a touch more rye spice, I found the E.H. Taylor Amaranth to be a win, regardless of one’s grain of choice.

Finish

As for the finish, I have to say it left me with a slightly bittersweet taste. The candy sweet nose seemed to be at odds with the earthen bitter palate. While this may not bother everyone, it did stick out to me during my tasting.

Rating

I would rate the E.H. Taylor Jr. Amaranth as Very Good, a 9 out of 10. It’s a bourbon that stands out for its unique flavors and richness, despite the somewhat discordant mix of nose and palate. I can appreciate the effort that has gone into creating this expression and would certainly recommend giving it a try.

Mixing and Pairing

Best Mixers

In my experience, the E.H. Taylor Jr. Amaranth Grain of the Gods has a unique and complex flavor profile that pairs well with a variety of mixers. Some of my favorites include:

• Ginger ale: The spiciness of ginger ale complements the bourbon’s rich and robust character, adding a refreshing twist.
• Club soda: A little splash of club soda can help to soften the bourbon without diluting its flavors. It’s a great option for those who prefer a more mellow whiskey experience.
• Sweet vermouth: Mixing Amaranth with sweet vermouth creates a delightful twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail. The vermouth adds a layer of complexity and sweetness that enhances the overall experience.

Cocktail Suggestions

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As a fan of E.H. Taylor Jr. Amaranth, I’ve experimented with various cocktail combinations, and the following suggestions have consistently impressed me:

1. Amaranth Old Fashioned: An Old Fashioned is a classic choice for whiskey enthusiasts, and it works perfectly with Amaranth. Just muddle a sugar cube with some bitters, add a splash of club soda, and then combine it with the bourbon. Garnish with an orange twist or a cherry.
2. Amaranth Whiskey Sour: The bold flavors of Amaranth pair well with the sweet and sour elements of a Whiskey Sour. Shake Amaranth bourbon with lemon juice, simple syrup, and an egg white for that frothy texture. Serve it up in a glass with ice and a cherry.

Food Pairings

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When it comes to food pairings with E.H. Taylor Jr. Amaranth, these are the options that are quite satisfying:

• Grilled meats: The complex flavors in Amaranth bourbon go hand-in-hand with the charred, smoky flavors of grilled meats. Think steaks, burgers, and barbecue ribs for a delicious combination.
• Dark chocolate: A bourbon like Amaranth with its rich and deep flavors pairs beautifully with the bitterness and sweetness of dark chocolate. This combination brings out the best in both the bourbon and the chocolate.
• Aged cheeses: The sharpness and richness of aged cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or gouda, can help to balance the flavors and enhance the overall experience when enjoying Amaranth bourbon.

Remember the key here is friendly and first person singular, so I shared the pairings and suggestions that I personally find enjoyable.

Conclusion

In my experience with E.H. Taylor Jr. Amaranth Grain of the Gods, I found it to be an interesting addition to the whiskey world. Although it might not meet the expectations of some bourbon enthusiasts, my personal opinion is that it’s worth giving a try.

The most intriguing aspect for me was exploring the use of amaranth in the whiskey. This ancient grain, once cultivated by the Aztecs and referred to as “the Grain of the Gods,” lends a unique flavor profile to the bourbon. I particularly enjoyed the candy sweet nose that was contrasted by an earthen bitter palate. This complexity was unexpected but enjoyable.

I believe E.H. Taylor Jr. Amaranth Grain of the Gods is an unconventional yet interesting whiskey worth exploring. Its ancient grain component and dynamic flavor profile make it a conversation starter and an enjoyable sip for those willing to stray from the traditional bourbon path.