What Is Small Batch Bourbon?
For those asking, “what is small batch bourbon”, the answer begins with scale. Rather than producing thousands of barrels at a time, small batch bourbon is crafted from a select group of barrels chosen for balance and character. This approach creates a spirit with individuality in contrast with mass-produced bourbons that emphasize uniformity above all else.
Some distillers define “small batch” differently, but the unifying principle is quality over quantity. Each release reflects intentional selection, offering a tasting experience that feels curated rather than generic.
Beyond the Definition
When people ask, “what is small batch whiskey?”, they’re often looking for more than a technical explanation. At its best, small batch whiskey captures the artistry of a distiller’s hand: the way grains are chosen, barrels are treated, and flavor is guided from fermentation to bottle.
It isn’t just about fewer barrels; it’s about creating a whiskey that tastes like it was made for discovery.
The Forbidden Approach
At Forbidden, we see small batch as an opportunity to highlight what makes our grain-to-glass process distinct. Our Small Batch Select draws on a carefully chosen blend of white corn, white wheat, and barley. Each grain is 100% food-grade, selected for its ability to shape flavor rather than maximize yield.
The result? A bourbon with clarity, texture, and layers of sweetness and spice that speak directly to the quality of its ingredients.
Big Personality in Every Glass
While definitions can make small batch seem like a technical category, the truth is that these bourbons are often brimming with individuality. At Forbidden, our Single Barrel Bourbon showcases that same philosophy at an even more personal level, where no two casks are exactly alike.
Together, these expressions show how small-scale production can unlock nuance and depth—traits that can get lost in large-scale operations.
Why It’s Worth the Pour
So, what is small batch bourbon when you pour it into the glass? It’s a spirit that balances tradition with personality. It carries the care of selection, the character of grains chosen for flavor, and the creativity of a distiller who values expression as much as consistency.
At Forbidden, small batch means more than a production size. It means bourbon crafted to surprise, invite exploration, and reward every sip.
