Elijah Craig Small Batch is indeed sweet. When I first tried it, I immediately noticed a prominent caramel note that hit my palate. It was rich and indulgent, giving the whiskey a nice sweetness. Alongside the caramel, there was a distinct vanilla flavor that added a smooth and creamy element to the overall taste.
As I continued to sip, I also detected a hint of nuttiness. It was subtle but added a pleasant depth to the sweetness. Additionally, I noticed some citrus notes, which provided a slight tanginess that balanced out the sweetness. It was like a burst of freshness amidst the richness.
One interesting flavor that emerged was cherry. It wasn’t overpowering, but it added a fruity undertone that complemented the other flavors well. It was a nice touch of sweetness that made the whiskey even more enjoyable.
Another element that I picked up on was a subtle licorice flavor. It added a touch of complexity to the overall profile, bringing a hint of bitterness that countered the sweetness just enough to keep it from becoming cloying.
Of course, the oak notes were present as well. They gave the whiskey a slight smokiness and woody flavor that added depth to the sweetness. It was a nice balance between the sweetness and the earthiness of the oak.
In terms of spice, I noticed hints of cinnamon and clove. They weren’t overpowering, but they added a subtle warmth to the whiskey. It was like a gentle touch of spice that enhanced the overall flavor profile.
While the flavors in Elijah Craig Small Batch aren’t necessarily big, deep, or complex, they do have a certain richness and depth to them. The sweetness is definitely a prominent characteristic, but it is well-balanced with other flavors to create a pleasant drinking experience. Additionally, I found that the whiskey didn’t have much heat, making it easy to enjoy without any harshness or burn.