1792 Aged Twelve Years brings welcome sophistication to the brand—this is a bourbon that “drinks its age.” It exudes mature oak structure and warmth, tempered by subtle, refined sweetness. It’s not flashy, but it’s well-calibrated—great for those looking for a grounded, transparent expression of aged Kentucky bourbon.

Overview & Background

Age Statement: A full 12 years in new charred American white oak barrels—returning truth and transparency to the 1792 series.
Proof: 96.6 (48.3% ABV)
Mash Bill: Marketed as a high‑rye recipe, typically believed to range from 15–25% rye.
Distillery: Barton 1792 Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky, now owned by Sazerac.

Tasting Notes

Nose
Rich caramel apple, raspberry brightness, and confectioners’ sugar—layered over classic oak and vanilla base; a beautifully inviting aroma.

Palate
Silky caramel unfolds into milk chocolate, brown sugar, and nougat. The aged character shines through with mature, roasted oak notes that temper the sweetness—delivering a grounded, elegant experience.

Finish
Rye spice steps forward amid charred oak, supported by subtle accents of mixed nuts, graham cracker, and cocoa nibs. This is a thoughtfully reserved finish—steady and composed.

Critic Impressions & Value

Praised for the return of a meaningful age statement and honest maturity.
Whisky Advocate gave 90 points, noting layered aromas of chocolate-covered cherries, pound cake, blackberry, cedar, and licorice. The palate echoing honeyed cedar and baked cookies, finishing with brown sugar, chocolate, peanut shell, and cracked pepper.

Summary Table

Attribute	Details
Age & Proof	12 years / 96.6 proof (48.3% ABV)
Mash Bill	High-rye bourbon
Nose	Caramel apple, raspberry, confectioners’ sugar, oak, vanilla
Palate	Caramel, milk chocolate, brown sugar, oak-forward maturity
Finish	Rye spice, charred oak, nuts, graham cracker, cocoa
Character	Mature, reserved, oak-driven, less flashy—traditional
Verdict	A solid, honest age-statement bourbon—quietly mature and dependable

1792 Bourbon