Colonel E.H. Taylor Amaranth Grain of the Gods Bourbon is a special bourbon made at Buffalo Trace Distillery. What makes it unique is its use of amaranth, an ancient grain known as the “Grain of the Gods.” This innovative approach to bourbon-making introduces a wide range of flavors that are both interesting and enjoyable.

Amaranth brings a whole new dimension to bourbon. Known as the “Grain of the Gods,” it was a staple food for the Aztecs and prized for its nutritious and versatile properties. In this bourbon, amaranth adds a unique twist by imparting earthy and herbal notes that distinguish it from traditional rye-based bourbons.

Aging for over ten years, this bourbon reveals layers of complexity that only time can bestow.

Classification: Straight Bourbon

Company: Sazerac Company, Inc.

Distillery: Buffalo Trace

Release Date: July 2019

Proof: 100

Here is my review and tasting notes for Colonel E.H. Taylor Amaranth Grain of the Gods Bourbon.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Sweet Cherry Juice, Floral Tones, Earthy Herbal Scents.

Colonel E.H. Taylor Amaranth Grain of the Gods Bourbon introduces an aromatic profile that is nothing short of a sensory journey. With each inhale, sweet cherry juice takes center stage, offering a luscious and inviting sweetness that sets the tone for what follows. This isn’t your standard bourbon bouquet; it’s enriched with floral tones, an intriguing layer of earthiness, and herbal scents reminiscent of medicinal roots grounding the nose.

Additional Nuances: Subtle hints of hazelnut and almond make their presence known, mingling with whispers of oak. There’s a harmonious balance between sweet and nutty, rich yet refined.

Palate: Butterscotch, Caramel, Summer Fruits Delight

Delightful and unique, It starts with the rich sweetness of butterscotch and caramel, then introduces hints of candied ginger and strong oak. There’s also a subtle touch of leather that adds complexity. A rich, creamy sweetness coats the palate. The spicy kick is complimented with earthy undertones and leather, a savory-sweet play.

Finish and Mouthfeel: Medium-Length Finish with Leather and Tobacco Undertones

I really enjoy the thin yet vibrant mouthfeel, leading to a medium-length finish. My senses are fully captivated and activated –this unique bourbon’s finish is marked by leather and tobacco undertones, which intertwine seamlessly with the initial bursts of flavors. 

There’s a lingering bitterness and tannic qualities. The subtle elements form the backbone of the bourbon’s nuanced flavor profile; the amaranth stands on its own.

Exploring the Unique Mash Bill: Amaranth as the Grain of the Gods

In the world of bourbon, mash bill is a term that is highly regarded and analyzed. Traditionally, bourbon mash bills are made up of a combination of corn, barley, and rye, with each grain adding its own unique qualities to the spirit. However, Colonel E.H. Taylor Amaranth Grain of the Gods Bourbon takes a bold step by replacing rye with amaranth, an ancient grain with its own rich history.

Pricing, Availability, And Final Thoughts On Colonel E.H. Taylor Amaranth Grain of the Gods Masterpiece…

The Colonel E.H. Taylor Amaranth Grain of the Gods Bourbon has a retail price of around $70. However, because it is only available in limited quantities, prices can go up significantly on the secondary market. (Pricing from 2023 was at $1,200+ This scarcity makes it highly sought after by collectors and bourbon enthusiasts, making it a prized addition to any bourbon lover’s collection.

In my opinion, this bourbon is an impressive experiment with the ancient grain amaranth. On a scale of 1 to 5, I would give it a solid 4.2 for its bold attempt at redefining tradition while providing a one-of-a-kind tasting experience.

I’m eager to hear your thoughts! How did this bourbon resonate with you? Feel free to share your tasting notes and review of Colonel E.H. Taylor Amaranth Grain of the Gods Bourbon in the comments below.