I’m still a fan of 1792 even though my initial 1792 craze has subsided now that I’ve tried them all so when I heard they were releasing a 12 year I was excited then I heard it was only going to be 96.6 proof which seemed like an odd choice but it was close enough to 100 that I was still game to try it.
1792 12 Year
Age: 12 years
Abv: 96.6 proof
Price: $50
Neat
Nose: Oaky with some of that classic 1792 caramel and vanilla sweetness lurking beneath the oak.
Taste: The palate starts somewhat sweet with vanilla and chocolate notes then transitions into a heavy, dry oak.
Finish: Dry and oaky finish with mere hints of vanilla.
0 Stars - Fine: I would not specifically choose to drink this over other readily available options
Conclusion
As expected for the first high age statement product released under the 1792 label this was very oaky. I still enjoyed it and this made me understand why Barton 1792 tends to release younger bourbon. I’m still glad I picked this up but I won’t be getting another. There are too many good 1792 Full Proof and Bottled in Bond picks out there to justify hunting this down and if I am going to hunt 1792 I am looking for Sweet Wheat over this guy.
I’m surprised how well balanced Cream of Kentucky is in comparison and I can sort of see why the price point on that bottle is so high now. Barton must have parted with some of their best well aged bottles.
TL;DR: Oaky but good, stick with store picks or Sweet Wheat for 1792