All Nations Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon by Garrard County Distilling Co. Review

Distillery: Sourced from undisclosed Kentucky distilleries.

Proof: 107.0 (53.5% ABV)

Age: Blend of 6 -9 barrels aged 4-7 years old

Mashbill: Undisclosed blend

MSRP: $55

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Who They Are

Whiskey and history often go hand-in-hand.  All Nations Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey from Garrard County Distilling Co. takes a playful twist on the historical story of Carrie A. Nation.  Nation, the famous (or infamous) figure of the Temperance Movement, wielded a hatchet to bust up saloons in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Ironically, her crusade led to the phrase “All Nations Welcome Except Carrie” being plastered in bars across the country—an now amusing legacy now reclaimed by Garrard County Distilling Co. for its bourbon label.

Garrard County Distilling Co. is still in its early days, having only been distilling for little more than a year. As such, All Nations Small Batch Bourbon is a carefully selected blend of Kentucky-sourced bourbons, aged between four and seven years, and bottled at a bold 107 proof. This release follows the launch of their Flagship Bourbon (96 proof, white label) and Single Barrel Bourbon (111 proof, red label), with each expression a different take on their vision for Kentucky bourbon.

Garrard’s website indicates the small batch process involves marrying six to nine barrels at a time.  When I visited the Distillery in March 2025, my notes indicate they are moving to a blend of thirty-six barrels.  Regardless, their aim is to allow each batch to balance traditional bourbon spice and sweetness.

A panel of seasoned industry veterans—including individuals with previous experience at some other industry heavyweights—collaborates to craft and blend each release with an aim for complex and well-rounded profiles.

All Nations Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon by Garrard County Distilling Co. Review: Tasting Notes

Nose – 4.5/5

A well-balanced combination of sweet and spice leads the way on the Nose, with notes of caramel corn, brown sugar, and some rye spice.  Subtle dark cherry and a light pastry-like toastiness adds depth. The proof is pronounced and creates anticipation for a sip.

Palate – 4.5/5

Sweet and inviting to start, with caramel, honey and buttered popcorn.  Mid-palate, the spice builds with noticeable cinnamon notes, rye spice, and a touch of citrus zest.

Finish – 4.25/5

The transition from sweet to spice carries into a moderately long finish. Mild pepper, oak, and a lingering citrus zest makes for a wonderfully refined bold exit. A hint of mild char and light sweetness remain in the background.

Value – 4.75/5

At $55 MSRP, All Nations Small Batch Bourbon lands in the mid-premium range amid some fierce competition. With its collaborative blending approach, significantly rich flavor profile, and high proof, this bourbon presents an outstanding value for those who enjoy a balanced pour with bold spice and layers of fruit complexity.

All Nations Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon by Garrard County Distilling Co. Review: The Verdict

All Nations Small Batch Bourbon is a highly impressive release from Garrard County Distilling Co. It delivers rich sweetness alongside structured spice, making for a highly engaging sipper. While it may lean a bit dry and spicy on the finish, it is well-rounded and makes a great choice whether enjoyed neat or over a rock.  While I have not tried it in a classic cocktail, I am confident it will hold up very nicely.

Verdict – 4.5/5

We score each bourbon based on nose, palate, finish, and value.

Scoring System:

• Platinum – 4.5 – 5
• Gold – 4 – 4.5
• Silver – 3 – 4
• Bronze – <3