The 1792 Bourbon is crafted by the Sazerac Company, a globally renowned beverage alcohol giant. In 2009, Sazerac acquired the brand and its distillery, which is now known as Barton 1792 Distillery. Previously, the bourbon was known as Ridgewood Reserve before undergoing a rebranding to its current name, 1792.
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of exploring various bourbon brands and understanding their origins. The story behind 1792 Bourbon is one that showcases the rich history and craftsmanship of the spirit.
The Barton 1792 Distillery, where the 1792 Bourbon is produced, is located in Bardstown, Kentucky. Bardstown is often referred to as the “Bourbon Capital of the World” due to its deep-rooted bourbon heritage. The distillery itself has a long history, dating back to 1879 when it was founded as the Tom Moore Distillery.
One of the unique aspects of the 1792 Bourbon is its small batch production method. The term “small batch” indicates that the bourbon is made in limited quantities, allowing for greater attention to detail and quality control. This approach ensures that each bottle of 1792 Bourbon is crafted with care and precision.
The production process begins with carefully selected grains, including corn, rye, and malted barley. These grains are milled and combined with water to create a mash. The mixture is then fermented using yeast, which converts the sugars into alcohol. This fermentation process can take several days, allowing for the development of complex flavors.
After fermentation, the mash is distilled in traditional copper pot stills. Distillation is a crucial step in bourbon production, as it helps to refine the spirit and create its distinct character. The distillate, also known as “white dog,” is then aged in new, charred oak barrels.
The aging process is where the magic truly happens. The bourbon must be aged for a minimum of two years to be legally classified as bourbon. However, 1792 Bourbon is typically aged for much longer, allowing it to develop rich flavors and aromas. The interaction between the bourbon and the oak barrels imparts notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice, contributing to its complexity.
Once the bourbon has reached its desired maturity, it is carefully selected and blended by the master distiller. The blending process ensures consistency in flavor profile across different batches, maintaining the high standards that 1792 Bourbon is known for.
In my personal experience, I have found 1792 Bourbon to be a delightfully smooth and well-balanced bourbon. Its rich, amber color immediately catches the eye, hinting at the depth of flavors to come. On the palate, the bourbon offers a harmonious blend of sweet caramel, toasted oak, and a touch of spicy rye. The finish is long and warming, leaving a pleasant lingering taste.
The 1792 Bourbon is made by the Sazerac Company at the Barton 1792 Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky. This small batch bourbon is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, using carefully selected grains, traditional distillation methods, and extended aging periods. The result is a premium bourbon that showcases the rich history and craftsmanship of the spirit.