Small Batch Bourbon: The Craft You’ll Wish You Mastered

Noah Kurz

Apr 1, 2025 — 2 min read

Small Batch: The Bourbon Twist You Can’t Overlook

"Small Batch" might sound like a boutique buzzword, but it’s a craft approach that’s too good to ignore—if you’re not hip to it, you’re missing bourbon’s refined side. This term prioritizes care over mass production. Here’s the honest truth about Small Batch bourbon, from process to pour, and why it’s a 2025 must-try.

What Does Small Batch Mean?

Small Batch bourbon meets all U.S. legal standards—at least 51% corn mash, distilled to 160 proof max, barreled at 125 proof max, aged in new charred oak, and bottled at 80 proof minimum—but stands out by blending fewer barrels than large-scale runs. While there’s no legal cap on barrel count, it’s a curated mix designed for tighter control, setting it apart from standard production.

How Small Batch Bourbon Is Made

The journey starts with fermenting a mash of 51% corn or more into an 8-10% ABV liquid over three to five days, followed by distillation up to 160 proof. The spirit then ages in new charred oak barrels at no more than 125 proof for two years or longer—often four to eight—building flavor from the wood. When ready, a select handful of barrels are blended and bottled at 80 proof or higher, offering a refined take shaped by careful selection rather than mass volume.

What Small Batch Offers Your Glass

By blending fewer barrels, Small Batch bourbon achieves a precise balance, merging the corn’s sweetness with oak-driven vanilla or spice for a cohesive sip at 80 proof or above. Higher proofs over 100 can sharpen the edges, but the limited mix ensures a consistent yet distinctive taste, reflecting the craft focus behind each batch. It’s bourbon with intention in every pour.

Why Small Batch Rules 2025

Small Batch strikes a craft sweet spot—by 2025, grasping this term could point you to polished pours that blend quality with character. It’s the label that elevates bourbon beyond the every day—don’t let its finesse go unnoticed. Want to sip a small batch? Check out NEAT: Whiskey Finder—it’ll help you track down bourbon and whiskey near you.

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