The Difference Between Small Batch vs. Single Barrel Bourbon

Bourbon labels can feel like a language of their own. Words like single barrel, small batch, and double barrel aren’t just marketing—they describe production methods that shape the flavor in your glass. Understanding these terms helps you choose bourbon more confidently, and appreciate how those differences show up in cocktails like the Old-Fashioned.

Let’s break down the differences between these popular categories, and why they matter for bourbon lovers and cocktail fans alike.

What is Single Barrel Bourbon?

Single barrel bourbon comes from exactly what the name suggests: one barrel. Instead of blending multiple barrels together, the whiskey in your bottle was drawn exclusively from a single cask.

This gives single barrel whiskey a unique fingerprint. Two barrels filled on the same day and aged side by side can still produce slightly different flavors due to subtle variations in wood, warehouse placement, and climate. One may lean toward caramel and vanilla, while the other emphasizes spice and oak.

For drinkers, this means every bottle carries a one-of-a-kind experience. For distillers, it’s a chance to showcase the individuality of their craft.

What is Double Barrel Bourbon?

Double barrel whiskey, sometimes called double oaked, undergoes a second aging process. After spending years in its original charred oak barrel, the whiskey is transferred to a fresh barrel—often one that has been heavily toasted or uniquely finished. This second maturation intensifies flavors, adding layers of richness, sweetness, or spice. 

What is Small Batch Bourbon?

Small batch whiskey blends together a select number of barrels—fewer than the hundreds used in mass-market brands, but more than a single or double barrel bourbon. The exact number varies by distillery, but the idea is the same: balance and consistency.

By carefully choosing a handful of barrels, distillers can highlight certain flavor profiles while smoothing out extremes. The result is a bourbon that still feels handcrafted but delivers a reliable taste across each release.

Where single barrel is about individuality, small batch is about harmony. Both have their place, and both appeal to different palates and occasions.

What is Mass-Produced Bourbon?

Mass-produced bourbon is created by blending whiskey from hundreds of barrels to achieve a consistent flavor profile. While it lacks the unique character of single barrel or small batch offerings, it delivers uniformity that people can rely on. The process emphasizes scale, efficiency, and accessibility over craftsmanship.

Why This Matters for Old-Fashioneds

An Old-Fashioned is one of the simplest whiskey cocktails, and therefore, one of the most revealing. With just bourbon, bitters, sugar, and citrus, the quality of the base spirit makes all the difference.

A single barrel bourbon can create a bold, distinctive Old-Fashioned, full of personality. A small batch offers a more balanced and approachable flavor, ensuring every glass tastes consistent. Double barrel bourbons often bring added depth, with notes of caramel, chocolate, or toasted oak that pair well with bitters and citrus.

Truitt’s: Tradition, Bottled

At Soldier City Spirits in St. Cloud, FL, we understand that not every host wants to play bartender or spend time analyzing mashbills. Our award-winning Truitt’s Old-Fashioned was created to offer bar-quality cocktails with none of the hassle. Made with 5-year bourbon, Grade A maple syrup, Madagascar vanilla, bitters, and citrus, it honors the craftsmanship of whiskey while making Old-Fashioneds more accessible.

So whether you’re a single barrel purist, a small batch loyalist, or curious about double barrel innovation, Truitt’s delivers the cocktail that lets bourbon shine. Just pour over ice, garnish if you like, and enjoy the tradition without the wait. Order a bottle online or sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop on all things Soldier City Spirits—including discounts, events, swag, new releases, and more.