Benchmark Small Batch Bourbon is a step up from the classic Benchmark Old No. 8, offering a richer, more refined flavor profile at a budget-friendly price. Produced by Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky, this bourbon is part of the expanded Benchmark lineup, crafted in small, hand-selected batches to highlight more developed oak and spice notes.
It’s smooth enough for casual sipping yet bold enough to elevate classic bourbon cocktails—making it one of the best value bourbons in the game.
Tasting Notes:
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Nose: Brown sugar, toasted oak, vanilla, and a hint of cherry
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Palate: Medium-bodied with flavors of caramel, baking spice, dark fruit, and a touch of rye-driven heat
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Finish: Clean and spicy with notes of oak, clove, and sweet corn lingering
Vital Stats:
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Type: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
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Mash Bill: Undisclosed (Buffalo Trace mash bill #1 — low rye)
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ABV: 45% (90 proof)
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Bottle Size: 750mL
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Distillery: Buffalo Trace Distillery – Frankfort, KY
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Style: Small Batch Bourbon
FAQ:
Q: Is Benchmark Small Batch different from Benchmark No. 8?
A: Yes—Small Batch is a richer, higher-proof expression with more complexity and better barrel selection than the standard No. 8.
Q: Is it good for cocktails?
A: Absolutely. It adds depth to Old Fashioneds, Manhattans, and Whiskey Sours while remaining affordable.
Q: How does it compare to other Buffalo Trace products?
A: It uses a similar mash bill but is more budget-friendly, making it a great everyday pour that shares DNA with more premium expressions.
Ideal For:
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Everyday Sipping
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Classic Bourbon Cocktails
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Buffalo Trace Fans on a Budget
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Entry-Level Bourbon Enthusiasts