Elijah Craig’s producer, Heaven Hill Distillery, has made history with the launch of a new and tailored-made Small Batch expression at a lower ABV, created exclusively for Australia. It’s the first time the “Father of Bourbon” has released a lower proof expression—putting Australian drinkers at the centre of Bourbon’s global evolution.
Handcrafted by Heaven Hill’s Master Distillers and aged in level 3 charred oak barrels, this new expression offers silky notes of vanilla, caramel and sun-ripened fruit wrapped in toasted oak, before finishing with a spark of spice and a wisp of smoke. It’s smooth, versatile, and purpose-built for today’s drinkers.
“Australians are discovering Bourbon at record pace, and Elijah Craig is proud to lead that journey,” said Grant Shearon, Heaven Hill APAC Brand Ambassador. “With excise rates continuing to climb, this new Elijah Craig Small Batch makes our award-winning Bourbon more versatile and more accessible, while staying true to the craftsmanship and heritage that has made Elijah Craig a global icon.”
The new expression strengthens Elijah Craig’s footprint in Australia while offering newcomers an accessible entry point to one of Kentucky’s most respected distilleries, without compromising character or craft. Importantly, the move also responds directly to Australia’s rising excise rates: the new Elijah Craig Small Batch expression delivers more accessible pricing and easier pouring options for venues, while still capturing the spirit of the distillery.
Golden amber in colour, Elijah Craig Small Batch 40% offers aromas of vanilla and summer fruits on the nose. On the palate, smooth caramel and toasted oak flow into gentle spice and soft smoke, making it an easy fit for a refreshing highball, your go-to Old Fashioned, or simply enjoyed neat.
The launch further expands Elijah Craig’s footprint in Australia, joining the line-up of Toasted Barrel, Barrel Proof, Straight Rye and the rare 18-Year-Old Single Barrel. With the 40% release now pouring, Australians can experience Elijah Craig across the full spectrum; from casual sipping to prestige bottlings treasured by collectors.
“We are incredibly excited to introduce these five unique expressions of Elijah Craig to whiskey lovers in Australia,” said Master Distiller Conor O’ Driscoll. “From the approachable smoothness of our Small Batch Bourbon to the bold complexity of our Barrel Proof and the rare elegance of our 18-Year-Old Single Barrel, we’ve ensured there’s something for every palate. This expansion allows Australians to experience firsthand why our whiskeys continue to set the standard for quality, craftsmanship and innovation.”
Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon 40% is NOW available for purchase through Dan Murphy’s at RRP $79.99.