Colonel E.H. Taylor Barrel Proof Uncut & Unfiltered Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey

Powerful rye spice, dark caramel, and seasoned oak rise immediately from the glass of Colonel E.H. Taylor Barrel Proof Uncut & Unfiltered Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey, a release that stands among the most elusive and uncompromising expressions in the Colonel E.H. Taylor portfolio. Drawn straight from the barrel without dilution or filtration, this whiskey represents the fullest articulation of rye as envisioned through the historic standards championed by Colonel Edmund Haynes Taylor Jr. Produced in extremely limited quantities and released only through tightly controlled allocations, it reflects a legacy built on innovation, discipline, and unwavering respect for quality.

Product Details:

• ABV: Barrel proof, varies by batch
• Producer: Buffalo Trace Distillery
• Owner: Sazerac Company
• Distiller: Harlen Wheatley
• Classification: Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
• Filtration: Uncut and unfiltered
• Release Type: Extremely limited allocation

Sensory Description:

The nose is dense and expressive, opening with assertive rye spice layered with molasses, toasted oak, dried orange peel, and baking spices. On the palate, the whiskey is commanding yet structured, delivering waves of cracked pepper, dark caramel, cinnamon bark, and roasted grain, all framed by the natural intensity of barrel proof strength. Despite its power, the texture remains cohesive, with oak tannin, leather, and subtle vanilla emerging as the whiskey opens in the glass. The finish is long, warming, and deeply resonant, marked by lingering spice, charred oak, and a dry, savory rye snap. Compared to more restrained rye expressions, this release leans fully into concentration and structure, showcasing rye in its most muscular and unfiltered form while maintaining balance through precise barrel selection and maturation.

Producer’s Background:

Colonel Edmund Haynes Taylor Jr. is regarded as one of the founding figures of modern American whiskey, instrumental in establishing quality standards that would later influence the Bottled in Bond Act. His legacy lives on at Buffalo Trace Distillery, where his namesake line is produced under the stewardship of master distiller Harlen Wheatley and the broader Buffalo Trace production team. Owned by the Sazerac Company, Buffalo Trace Distillery is known for its deep inventories, historic methods, and meticulous barrel management. The Colonel E.H. Taylor range reflects a commitment to traditional techniques, careful maturation, and reverence for whiskey history, with the Barrel Proof Rye representing one of the most limited and technically demanding expressions in the portfolio.

Serving Suggestions:

Best approached neat in a Glencairn or similar nosing glass to fully appreciate its aromatic depth and evolving structure. A few drops of water may be added to open the whiskey and temper its intensity, revealing additional layers of sweetness and spice. This whiskey pairs naturally with rich, savory fare such as smoked meats, aged cheeses, or dark chocolate, though it is equally suited to contemplative sipping on its own.