High Bank Small Batch Bourbon Batch 03

High Bank Small Batch Bourbon Batch 03

A little background

High Bank Distillery Co., based in Columbus, Ohio, draws its name from the historic “High Bank” site where the state capital was established in 1812, overlooking the Scioto and Olentangy Rivers. The distillery embodies that pioneering spirit through its commitment to house-distilled spirits, blending traditional craftsmanship with local innovation. Founded as part of the High Bank restaurant group, it produces a range of whiskeys using grains sourced from Ohio farms, emphasizing small-batch production and barrel selection to highlight regional terroir.

High Bank Small Batch Bourbon Batch 03 is a wheated bourbon crafted from a house-made blended mash bill of five unique barrels, aged for at least six years. Bottled at 93 proof in 750mL format, it retails of around $45 depending, making it an accessible entry into the distillery’s portfolio. This release underscores High Bank’s focus on balanced, approachable expressions suited for both neat sipping and classic cocktails.

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)

Color

Light Gold

Nose

Caramel, vanilla, oak, malted chocolate, raw corn grain

Palate

Caramel, corn sweetness, honey, candied nuts, and creamy vanilla.

Finish

Leather, black pepper, dried apricot, sand dry oak.

In closing

High Bank’s Small Batch Bourbon Batch 03 feels like a confident step forward for the distillery’s in-house program. While traces of youth and a somewhat abrupt finish keep it from hitting full maturity, the underlying distillate shows genuine promise. The balance of caramel, honeyed corn, and nutty sweetness reflects a thoughtful wheated mash bill that stands apart from many sourced competitors. At around $45, it’s a fair, even commendable value for a whiskey that showcases authenticity, restraint, and room to grow. It’s one I’d happily recommend to anyone curious about High Bank’s direction—especially those who appreciate a lighter, approachable pour that still carries a sense of local character and craft.
 

NOTE: The sample used for this review was provided at no cost courtesy of High Bank Distillery. We thank them for the sample and for allowing us to review it with no strings attached.

High Bank Small Batch Bourbon Batch 03

High Bank Small Batch Bourbon Batch 03
7.9

Nose

 8.0/10

Palate

 7.9/10

Finish

 7.8/10

Complexity

 7.9/10

Value

 8.0/10

The Good

  • Distilled by High Bank
  • Approachable

The Bad

  • Youthful
  • Short finish
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Matthew Evans

Matthew is the founder and visionary behind Whiskey Consensus. What began as a project to explore the Instagram platform and share a love for whiskey has evolved into so much more. Professionally, Matthew works in digital marketing as a solutions engineer and sales leader, bringing innovative strategies to the table. Outside of work, Matthew is an avid runner, as well as a car and watch enthusiast. He is also deeply committed to giving back to the community through various volunteer responsibilities.