Single Barrel, Small Batch, Barrel Proof: How to Read a Bourbon Label

Bourbon labels are full of phrases that sound important. Understanding a few of the most common ones makes it much easier to compare bottles and ask for what you want.

Single barrel

In everyday terms, "single barrel" means the whiskey in the bottle came from one individual barrel rather than a blend of many. Because barrels age differently, two single barrel bottles of the same brand may taste a little different. Labels sometimes list a barrel number or bottling details. For a well-known example, read our Blanton's story.

Small batch

"Small batch" usually means the whiskey was blended from a relatively limited number of barrels. However, there is no single universal size for a "small" batch, and producers define it in their own ways. Treat it as a description from the producer rather than a precise measurement, and compare bottles by what you actually enjoy.

Barrel proof

"Barrel proof" (sometimes "cask strength") generally means the whiskey was bottled at or near the strength it had coming out of the barrel, with little or no water added. These bottles are often noticeably stronger than standard bottlings.

Barrel proof does not by itself mean a bottle is rare or better. It describes strength, not quality. Many people enjoy adding a few drops of water or a large ice cube to a barrel proof pour.

Read the ABV, every time

Bourbon is not all bottled at the same strength. Labels list proof or ABV (proof in the U.S. is twice the ABV: 90 proof is 45% ABV). Two bottles from the same brand can be very different strengths. Checking this number helps you know what to expect and how to pour responsibly.

Other words you may see

• Age statement: how long the whiskey aged, if stated. See our Eagle Rare 10 Year article for how age statements work.
• Straight: a term often used for whiskey that meets certain production and aging standards; ask about a specific bottle if you are curious.
• Wheated: bourbon that uses wheat as a secondary grain. See our Weller guide.
• Bottled in bond: a traditional designation with its own requirements; ask our team about specific bottles.

For exact legal definitions, see the federal labeling rules.

Compare by style and preference

Once you can read a label, you can describe what you like: "a higher-proof single barrel," or "a lower-proof wheated bourbon." That description is more useful than a brand name when the bottle you want is not available, as our tips on finding rare bourbon explain.

Ask the Stanley's team

Bring a label photo or a description of what you enjoy, and our team will show you available bottles that fit. Visit 1049 S State Street or call (601) 353-0331.

Please enjoy responsibly. Must be 21+ to purchase.