Elijah Craig Bourbon: Everything You Need to Know
Elijah Craig is one of the most well-known and highly regarded names in the bourbon world. Whether you’re a bourbon enthusiast or someone just beginning to explore the vast landscape of American whiskey, chances are you've heard of Elijah Craig. But is it really a "cheap" bourbon? Is it sweet? And most importantly, is it good for cocktails like an Old Fashioned? In this blog, we’ll answer all of these questions and more to help you understand why Elijah Craig is a go-to choice for so many bourbon lovers.
Is Elijah Craig a Cheap Bourbon?
When people refer to a bourbon as "cheap," they often mean it in terms of price, not quality. Elijah Craig Bourbon is not considered "cheap" in terms of quality. It’s a premium product that delivers exceptional flavor at a reasonable price point for its quality.
Price Range: Elijah Craig typically ranges from $30 to $60 depending on the expression you choose. The Elijah Craig Small Batch (the most common version) generally falls in the $30-$40 range, making it affordable for many bourbon drinkers who want a quality product without breaking the bank. In comparison to other premium bourbons, this price range is considered mid-range, offering solid value for the quality you receive.
So, while Elijah Craig isn't "cheap" in the sense of low-cost, it is one of the best value-for-money bourbons available in its category.
Is Elijah Craig a Sweet Bourbon?
Elijah Craig is known for its rich, full-bodied flavor profile, but it's not overwhelmingly sweet. Bourbon, by definition, must contain at least 51% corn, which imparts a natural sweetness. Elijah Craig’s sweetness is balanced by a complex mix of spice, oak, vanilla, and caramel notes.
Tasting Notes:
- Initial taste: You’ll likely notice a smooth, sweet vanilla and caramel flavor when you first sip Elijah Craig.
- Mid-palate: As the whiskey settles, hints of toffee and dark fruit (like dried cherries) may emerge, along with a touch of spice.
- Finish: The finish is long and warm, with a slight oakiness and honeyed sweetness lingering on the palate.
While the bourbon does have a sweet undertone, it’s well-balanced with a spicy and oaky finish that keeps it from being overly sugary or cloying. If you prefer a bourbon with a pronounced sweetness, this could be the right choice for you, but it’s not the overly sweet kind of bourbon some people might expect.
Is Elijah Craig Good for Old Fashioned Cocktails?
When it comes to making an Old Fashioned, the choice of bourbon is key to creating a balanced, flavorful cocktail. Elijah Craig’s rich flavor profile makes it an excellent choice for an Old Fashioned.
Why Elijah Craig Works for Old Fashioneds:
- The spicy notes of Elijah Craig pair beautifully with the bitters and sugar used in an Old Fashioned.
- The sweetness of the bourbon complements the sugar and enhances the overall flavor of the drink.
- The complexity and body of Elijah Craig add depth to the cocktail, making it stand out without being overpowered by the bitters or citrus peel.
If you're a fan of Old Fashioneds and looking for a bourbon that will shine in the glass, Elijah Craig Small Batch is a fantastic option. It strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and spice, giving your cocktail a rich, full flavor that doesn't get lost among the other ingredients.
Is Elijah Craig a Bourbon or a Rye?
Elijah Craig is a bourbon whiskey, not a rye. The difference between bourbon and rye comes down to the grain bill (the mix of grains used in the mash).
- Bourbon must be made from at least 51% corn.
- Rye whiskey must be made from at least 51% rye.
Elijah Craig’s mash bill is based on a higher percentage of corn, making it a bourbon. While rye can sometimes be spicier and more robust, bourbon tends to be sweeter and smoother. Elijah Craig’s signature sweetness comes from its corn content, balanced with oak and spice, which makes it a favorite for sipping and mixing alike.
Elijah Craig’s Popular Expressions
Elijah Craig offers several different expressions, each with its own unique qualities:
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Elijah Craig Small Batch
- Aged for 8-12 years and crafted from a blend of different barrels, this is the most widely available and is the one that most bourbon drinkers are familiar with.
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Elijah Craig Barrel Proof
- For those who love a high-proof bourbon, this version is bottled at cask strength, delivering a bold and intense flavor. It’s a favorite among whiskey enthusiasts looking for a full-bodied, uncut experience.
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Elijah Craig Single Barrel
- This is a more limited offering, showcasing the flavors of individual barrels. Each bottle may vary slightly, but it generally delivers a richer, more nuanced flavor profile compared to the Small Batch.
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Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel
- This unique release finishes the bourbon in toasted oak barrels, providing an extra layer of caramelized sweetness and complexity.
Why Elijah Craig is Loved by Bourbon Enthusiasts
Elijah Craig’s rise in popularity can be attributed to its consistent quality and affordable price. It’s a smooth, approachable bourbon that appeals to both beginners and experienced drinkers. Whether you’re sipping it neat, on the rocks, or mixing it into cocktails, Elijah Craig delivers depth, richness, and balance—making it an ideal bourbon for a wide range of occasions.
Final Thoughts
- Is Elijah Craig cheap bourbon? Not exactly, but it’s an excellent value for its quality and offers a mid-range price for a premium product.
- Is Elijah Craig a sweet bourbon? Yes, it has a noticeable sweetness, but it’s well-balanced with oak and spice, making it versatile for sipping and mixing.
- Is Elijah Craig good for Old Fashioneds? Absolutely! Its rich, balanced profile makes it a fantastic choice for creating a flavorful Old Fashioned.
- Is Elijah Craig bourbon or rye? Elijah Craig is a bourbon, made primarily from corn, which gives it that classic bourbon sweetness.
If you’re looking for a bourbon that offers great flavor at a reasonable price and performs well in both cocktails and neat pours, Elijah Craig is a fantastic choice. Give it a try next time you’re on the hunt for a quality bourbon, and you’ll understand why it’s so beloved by the whiskey community.