Last Updated on March 20, 2024 by Lydia Martin
1792 Bourbon, a small-batch Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey, offers you premium taste and flavor without breaking the bank. While most premium bourbon bottles can cost you around $50-ish, this brand remains relatively cheaper at just north of $30.
Let’s look at 1792 Bourbon- price, ingredients, and everything you need to know about this drink.
All About 1792 Bourbon
1792 Bourbon was formerly known as Ridgewood Reserve 1792 and 1792 Ridgemont Reserve. Despite being a multi-award-winning bourbon, its various change in names could be why it’s not that popular today. The brand won the gold medal at the World Whiskies Awards in 2020 and double-gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2021.
As far as brands go, 1792 Bourbon is relatively new (only launched in 2002). However, the 1792 Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky, has been around since the 18th century. Over the years, it has exchanged quite a few hands in ownership and is now operated by spirits giant Sazerac.
Fun Facts
Main Ingredients
1792 Small Batch Bourbon is made from select corn, rye, and barley blended to create a unique high-rye mash bill. Although the specifics of the mash bill were never fully disclosed, the potent spiciness both on the nose and tongue is proof enough that there must be at least 25 percent rye in it.
If you can get past the heat, this is where the magic starts: fragrant notes of oak, vanilla, chocolate, and coffee bean greet you. On the palate, it is full-bodied and quite chewable. The finish is quite long.
Overall, the 1792 Bourbon is a bold, clean spirit with a smooth and balanced profile. However, if you are one of those unable to overlook the heat, we recommend cutting 1792 back with a pipette of water or serving it on the rocks.
How It’s Made
The 1792 Bourbon is created with precise craftsmanship. After the high-rye spirits have been aged, they are carefully selected and blended to achieve sophisticated and complex flavors. This bourbon is also higher in proof than most others (93.3 percent versus the leading 80).
The bottle used to carry an 8-year age statement, but they have since dropped it in 2013. We’re guessing that this is because they might be using younger bourbons in the spirit (about four to six years old).
Read: 1792 Bourbon vs Buffalo Trace
Changing the Name Twice
1792 was a monumental year for the bourbon industry — it was the year Kentucky, known as the Bourbon Capital of the World, was first legally recognized as a state [1]. The bourbon was first released as Ridgewood Reserve 1792, but after losing a lawsuit against Brown-Forman’s Woodford Reserve in 2004, they changed their name to 1792 Ridgemont Reserve instead.
The company later on decided to drop the whole name and go with 1792 Bourbon. Check out what’s happening at the Kentucky Bourbon Festival here.
Common 1792 Bourbon Prices
| Type | Size | Alcohol Proof | Average Price |
| 1792 Small Batch Bourbon | 750ml | 93.7 | Around $32.99 |
| Aged Twelve Years | 750ml | 96.6 | Around $109.99 |
| Bottled in Bond | 750ml | 100 | Around $45.99 |
| Full Proof | 750ml | 125 | Around $59.39 |
| High Rye | 750ml | 94.3 | Around $42.99 |
| Port Finish | 750ml | 88.9 | Around $42.89 |
| Single Barrel | 750ml | 98.6 | Around $46.99 |
| Sweet Wheat | 750ml | 91 | Around $65.99 |
Compared To Other Bourbons
Maker’s Mark Bourbon
While 1792 Bourbon might be more for those whose palates are more accustomed to bourbon, Maker’s Mark remains relatively mild to please whiskey beginners and aficionados alike. This is sweet bourbon, with heavy notes of caramel and vanilla and a long, warm finish.
A 750ml bottle of Maker’s Mark costs around $27, slightly cheaper than a bottle of 1792 in the same size.
Bulleit Bourbon
Bulleit Bourbon is another bourbon brand prominently known for its rye whiskey, which uses a whopping 95 percent rye. Like 1792, this is a drink with an upfront spice yet remains unbelievably smooth and crisp.
Both Bulleit and 1792 are within the same price point, about $30-ish.
Woodford Reserve
Woodford Reserve is probably the closest thing to 1792 in the bourbon market. Both have a rich and chewy mouthfeel, laced with caramel, chocolate, and toffee notes. However, Woodford is not as spicy as 1792, so you might want to check out this brand if you can’t look past the bite.
The two brands are also at par in terms of pricing. You can get a 750ml bottle of Woodford Reserve for around $31.
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Popular 1792 Bourbon Cocktail Recipes
The Gold Rush
The Gold Rush is a simple cocktail with only three ingredients. Here’s how you can make it with 1792 Bourbon.
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Total Time: 3 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 oz 1792 Bourbon
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 1 oz honey
- Ice
Instructions:
Fill the cocktail shaker and fill it with ice. Then pour all ingredients into the cocktail shaker, ensuring that the honey dissolves. Strain and pour the mixture into an old-fashioned glass filled with ice and serve.
Serving: 1
The Paper Plane
The Paper Plane is a surprisingly exotic flavor combination: you’ll get the bittersweet flavors from Amaro, contrasted with the zesty tang from the Aperol.
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Total Time: 2 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz 1792 Bourbon
- 0.5 oz Amaro
- 1.5 oz Aperol
- 1.5 oz lemon juice
Instructions:
Pour all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice and shake well until combined. Strain and pour into two cocktail glasses.
Serving: 2
The John Collins
John Collins is one of the oldest cocktails in circulation. Here’s how you can make this classic bar staple.
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Total Time: 2 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz 1792 Bourbon
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- Club soda
- Maraschino cherry
- Orange peel
- Ice
Instructions:
Pour all liquid ingredients (except the club soda) into a highball glass filled with ice and gently stir until combined. Top off the remaining with club soda. Garnish with the orange peel and maraschino cherry.
Serving: 1
FAQs
How much is a barrel of 1792 Bourbon?
The 1792 Bourbon Single Barrel costs around $46.99. This special selection is taken from only the barrels deemed “exceptional” both by taste and quality and bottled individually.
Is the 1792 Bourbon top shelf?
Yes, the 1792 Bourbon is top shelf! This small-batch bourbon will grant you the full American bourbon experience, from its sophisticated and complex flavor to the packaging. If you have this in your bourbon cabinet, consider yourself lucky — they are quite rare!
What does 1792 Bourbon taste like?
1792 Bourbon is known for its rich and complex flavor profile, characterized by notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and spice. On the nose, it offers enticing aromas of caramelized sugar, toasted oak, and vanilla, with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg adding depth and warmth. Upon tasting, 1792 Bourbon delivers a smooth and balanced palate, with flavors of sweet caramel and creamy vanilla complemented by robust oak and subtle undertones of baking spices. The finish is long and lingering, with a gentle warmth and a touch of sweetness that leaves a satisfying impression. Overall, 1792 Bourbon is prized for its depth of flavor, smoothness, and complexity, making it a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.
How much alcohol is in 1792?
1792 Bourbon typically has an alcohol by volume (ABV) content of 46.85%, which is 93.7 proof. This ABV level is standard for many bourbon whiskeys and contributes to the spirit’s robust flavor profile and smooth drinking experience. The higher alcohol content provides a warming sensation on the palate while allowing the whiskey’s flavors to shine through, resulting in a well-balanced and enjoyable drinking experience.
How much is 1792 sweet wheat bourbon?
The price of 1792 Sweet Wheat Bourbon can vary depending on factors such as location, retailer, and availability. Generally, 1792 Sweet Wheat Bourbon falls within the mid-range pricing category for bourbon whiskeys, offering exceptional quality at a relatively affordable price point compared to some other premium brands.
In the United States, a standard 750ml bottle of 1792 Sweet Wheat Bourbon typically ranges from $35 to $50, although prices may vary slightly based on local taxes and distribution. Limited edition releases or specialty bottlings may command higher prices due to their rarity and collectibility. Overall, 1792 Sweet Wheat Bourbon offers excellent value for its quality, making it a popular choice among bourbon enthusiasts seeking a unique and flavorful drinking experience.
How old is 1792 Bourbon?
1792 Bourbon is not explicitly aged for 1,792 years, despite its name. Instead, the name pays homage to the year Kentucky joined the Union. The age of 1792 Bourbon typically refers to the aging process in oak barrels, which can vary depending on the specific expression. Most 1792 Bourbons are aged for at least eight years, although some special releases may have different aging durations.
The aging process in charred oak barrels imparts rich flavors and complexity to the bourbon, allowing it to develop its signature taste profile over time. While the age of the bourbon is an important factor in determining its flavor and character, the quality of the ingredients, distillation process, and barrel selection also play significant roles in creating a premium bourbon like 1792.
How do you drink 1792 Bourbon?
1792 Bourbon is typically enjoyed neat, meaning it is served at room temperature in a glass without any additional ingredients. This allows the drinker to fully appreciate the bourbon’s complex flavors and aromas without dilution. When drinking 1792 Bourbon neat, pour a small amount into a tulip-shaped glass or a whiskey tumbler, allowing the spirit to breathe for a few moments before taking a sip. Sip the bourbon slowly, letting it coat your palate and exploring its various flavor nuances. Some may also prefer to add a few drops of water or a single ice cube to slightly lower the proof and open up the flavors further, although purists often prefer it neat to fully appreciate its complexity.
Why does bourbon smell so good?
Bourbon’s enticing aroma can be attributed to a combination of factors, including its ingredients, distillation process, and aging in charred oak barrels. Bourbon is made primarily from corn, along with other grains such as rye or barley, which contribute to its sweet and grainy aroma. During the distillation process, compounds called congeners are produced, which contribute to the whiskey’s complex aroma profile. These congeners can include fruity esters, spicy phenols, and aromatic aldehydes, which combine to create bourbon’s distinctive scent.
Additionally, aging bourbon in charred oak barrels allows the whiskey to absorb flavors and aromas from the wood, including caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak, which further enhance its aroma. The interaction between the bourbon and the wood during aging also facilitates the development of new flavor compounds and the mellowing of harsher elements, resulting in a smooth and aromatic whiskey that delights the senses. Overall, bourbon’s appealing aroma is a result of the careful craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into its production, making it a beloved spirit for enthusiasts and novices alike.
1972 Bourbon Price: Is It Worth It?
One of the best things about the 1792 Bourbon is its generosity to provide us with a premium American bourbon at a relatively low price. Each bottle is carefully handcrafted and manually tested to ensure that you get to experience nothing less than the best bourbon.
If you get the opportunity to chance upon this rare bottle, we suggest that you give it a try and let your friends and family in on it, too!
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