From the Vault
It's funny revisiting reviews from the early days of our podcast--we were certainly harsher with our scoring than we are now. Not that we've softened up our stance on whether we like something, but I think now we have a better understanding of, say, a product's value compared to the rest of the market, and not based solely on our enjoyment of it.
I say all of that because as I look through our scores from 2021 on Jefferson's Small Batch Bourbon--they seem a bit harsh. Should we revisit this one? Were we overly critical? Or did we get it just right? Read on to find out.
This review is taken from our episode "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban / Jefferson's Small Batch." Click the link to listen to this review in audio format.
What’s Unique About Jefferson’s Small Batch Bourbon?
Jefferson’s Small Batch Bourbon is an entry-level expression from Jefferson’s, a brand celebrated for its experimental approach to whiskey. Founded in 1997, Jefferson’s blends sourced whiskey with distillate from its own Kentucky Artisan Distillery. Known for innovations like Jefferson’s Ocean—barrels aged at sea to extract unique flavors—this 82.3-proof bourbon offers a more traditional take. While the mash bill isn’t disclosed, this bourbon invites curiosity, especially from those intrigued by Jefferson’s reputation for pushing boundaries.
Jefferson’s Small Batch is an 82.3-proof bourbon offering a classic take from a brand known for experimental whiskeys.
What Does Jefferson’s Small Batch Bourbon Smell Like?
Nose
- Brad: This is a simple and light nose with hints of floral notes, light oak, and corn. It smells slightly young, but it’s not bad. 6/10
- Bob: For me, it smells bright and citrusy, almost astringent. I picked up notes of apple peel and citrus, but it reminded me of a high-proof Bud Light Lime. Unfortunately, it smells cheap. 5.5/10
The nose offers light floral and citrus notes but lacks depth, with scores of 5.5-6/10.
How Does Jefferson’s Small Batch Bourbon Taste?
Taste
- Brad: It reminds me of cherry cola, with hints of vanilla and oak. But there’s not much going on beyond that—it’s just okay. 5/10
- Bob: This tastes more like a sweeter Irish whiskey than a bourbon. The maltiness and light smoke dominate, but it’s pretty flat overall. 5.5/10
Jefferson’s Small Batch features light cherry, vanilla, and malt notes but lacks complexity, scoring 5-5.5/10.
How Long Does the Flavor of Jefferson’s Small Batch Bourbon Last?
Finish
- Brad: This has one of the shortest finishes I’ve ever had. Outside of a light oak note, the flavors disappear almost immediately. 4/10
- Bob: It’s short, with lingering bitter oak and a slight Kentucky hug. It’s not unpleasant, but there’s nothing memorable here. 4.5/10
The finish is short and dominated by oak, with scores of 4-4.5/10.
Is Jefferson’s Small Batch Bourbon Well-Balanced?
Balance
- Brad: It struggles across all categories. While not bad, there’s nothing standout here, making it a very average bourbon. 5/10
- Bob: The lack of standout notes makes it hard to call this balanced. It’s consistent in mediocrity, unfortunately. 5.5/10
Jefferson’s Small Batch is average in its balance, scoring 5-5.5/10.
Is Jefferson’s Small Batch Bourbon Worth Its Price?
Value
- Brad: At $31.99, this is overpriced for what it offers. I’d expect to pay $18-$21 for a bourbon of this quality. 2/10
- Bob: While not egregiously priced, there are better options at this level, like Old Grand-Dad Bottled in Bond. 5/10
Jefferson’s Small Batch struggles to justify its $31.99 price, with value scores ranging from 2-5/10.
Final Scores: Is Jefferson’s Small Batch Bourbon Worth Trying?
- Brad: 22/50
- Bob: 26/50
With an average score of 24/50, Jefferson’s Small Batch falls below the halfway mark, making it difficult to recommend. While it may appeal to fans of lighter, spicier bourbons, it lacks the complexity and depth of similarly priced options.
Recommendation: For those looking for value, explore alternatives like Old Grand-Dad Bottled in Bond or Four Roses Yellow Label.
FAQ: Common Questions About Jefferson’s Small Batch Bourbon
1. What is the flavor profile of Jefferson’s Small Batch Bourbon?
Jefferson’s Small Batch offers light cherry, vanilla, and oak notes with hints of citrus and malt, but it lacks depth and complexity.
2. How much does Jefferson’s Small Batch Bourbon cost?
This bourbon is priced around $31.99 but is considered overpriced for its quality.
3. Is Jefferson’s Small Batch Bourbon worth buying?
With a score of 24/50, it’s below average compared to other bourbons in its price range.
4. What proof is Jefferson’s Small Batch Bourbon?
Jefferson’s Small Batch is bottled at 82.3 proof, making it a lighter bourbon.
5. Who might enjoy Jefferson’s Small Batch Bourbon?
This bourbon may appeal to fans of lighter, less sweet bourbons with a spicier profile, similar to Four Roses or Old Grand-Dad.
