Rock Hill Farms Single Barrel Bottled in Bond

Introduction / Overview

Rock Hill Farms is a single barrel bourbon produced under the Sazerac umbrella (Buffalo Trace / related operations) in Frankfort, Kentucky. FineLiquors+3Wikipedia+3Distiller – The Liquor Expert+3

It is part of Buffalo Trace’s “mash bill #2” family—the same grain bill used by Elmer T. Lee, Blanton’s, Hancock’s Reserve, and Ancient Age. Straight Bourbon+3Distiller – The Liquor Expert+3Sazerac+3

Although it carries the descriptor “Single Barrel,” it is typically Non–Age Statement (NAS), and it is bottled at 100 proof (50 % ABV). Sazerac+3FineLiquors+3Bourbon Roxx+3

The “Bottled in Bond” aspect means it meets the legal requirements of the U.S. Bottled-in-Bond Act, which imposes strict standards on distillation season, aging, storage, and bottling (see below).

Its collectible nature, limited availability, and the reputation of its mash bill peers help drive interest from bourbon enthusiasts. But, as with many “hyped” bourbons, opinions on value, consistency, and drinkability vary widely.

Key Characteristics & Production

To understand Rock Hill Farms properly, here are its defining elements:

• Mash bill / lineage: Uses Buffalo Trace Mash Bill #2, sharing DNA with Elmer T. Lee, Blanton’s, and others. Distiller – The Liquor Expert+3Straight Bourbon+3Sazerac+3

• Proof / ABV: 100 proof (50 % ABV). Kings Wine and Spirit+3FineLiquors+3Bourbon Roxx+3

• Age: No age statement is given; many assume aging is in the range of 6–8 years, though official sources do not specify. Whiskeys and Bourbons+3FineLiquors+3Bourbon Roxx+3

• Single barrel: Each bottle comes from a single barrel rather than being blended across barrels. This contributes to variation from bottle to bottle. Sazerac+4Wikipedia+4Distiller – The Liquor Expert+4

• Bottled‑in‑Bond: To be legitimately labeled “bottled in bond,” it must meet the requirements of the U.S. Bottled-in-Bond Act (single distillation season, aged at least 4 years in a bonded warehouse, bottled at 100 proof, etc.). Whiskeys and Bourbons+3Wikipedia+3Sazerac+3

• Presentation: It is packaged in a decanter‑style bottle with a heavy glass stopper, often in a décor that emphasizes horses or pastoral themes. Bourbon Roxx+4Whiskeys and Bourbons+4Sazerac+4

• Availability / Rarity: While not officially marketed as a “limited edition,” its release is not as common as some core bourbons. Many enthusiasts call it “hard to find.” The Whiskey Ramble+6Whiskeys and Bourbons+6Distiller – The Liquor Expert+6

Tasting Notes & Impressions

Because each barrel is different, the flavor experience can vary. Below are commonly cited tasting notes, followed by impressions from the bourbon community.

Typical / Official / Retail Tasting Notes

From retailer descriptions and bottled reports:

• Nose / Aroma: Figs, nuts, dry spices, oak, vanilla, light peppermint or mint hints. bourbonmart.com+5Kings Wine and Spirit+5Jeff Christopher Liquor Store+5

• Palate / Taste: Cocoa, toffee, caramel, rye spice interplay, cherry / fruit undertones, buttery or creamy textures. Distiller – The Liquor Expert+4Kings Wine and Spirit+4Jeff Christopher Liquor Store+4

• Finish: Walnut, honey, vanilla, oak, anise, lingering spices and a medium length. Jeff Christopher Liquor Store+3Kings Wine and Spirit+3Whiskeys and Bourbons+3

• Body / Mouthfeel: Medium body; not extremely heavy nor extremely thin. Sazerac+3Bourbon Roxx+3Distiller – The Liquor Expert+3

Community / Reviewer Impressions

The bourbon community has a wide range of opinions, including praise, critiques, and caveats. Below are representative examples:

• One reviewer placed Rock Hill Farms as “pleasant, slightly funky, and enjoyably fruity,” comparing it favorably to Blanton’s and Elmer T. Lee for the price. The Whiskey Ramble

• On Reddit, a taster noted:

  “The cinnamon is decently strong … charred oak is more present than I thought … well‑rounded pour … everything that shows up in the palate is solid.” Reddit

• Others are more critical:

  “Burnt caramel, very thin mouthfeel … bitter, sour, hot … I don’t think … worth the risk if you get this.” Reddit

• Another reviewer who opened a bottle many years ago said it had flaws (grassy nose, bitter finish) and considered it a letdown. Reddit

• Yet some enthusiasts glow:

  “Lots of oak from the barrel, a little vanilla, and a sweet nose! Absolutely loved it … top shelf.” Reddit

• One longtime fan called it among their favorite expressions from the Mash Bill #2 lineup, especially citing the proof/ drinkability balance. Reddit

In summary, many see Rock Hill Farms as very good rather than exceptional. Its variability means some bottles hit the sweet spot while others may underwhelm.

People Also Ask (PAA) — Common Questions & Answers

Here are typical “People Also Ask”–style questions and informed answers.

1. What proof is Rock Hill Farms Bourbon?

It is bottled at 100 proof, which is 50 % alcohol by volume (ABV). Bourbon Roxx+4FineLiquors+4bourbonmart.com+4

Because it is a Bottled-in-Bond product, 100 proof is also required under U.S. law for that designation. Wikipedia+2Sazerac+2

2. Is Rock Hill Farms aged 8 years (or what is its age)?

There is no official age statement on Rock Hill Farms. It is thus classified as NAS (no age statement). FineLiquors+5Distiller – The Liquor Expert+5Sazerac+5

Many sources and enthusiasts speculate that its age falls in the range of 6 to 8 years (some say about 8 years) based on flavor, comparison, and tradition. Straight Bourbon+4FineLiquors+4Sazerac+4

However, this is an estimate and not confirmed by the producer.

3. What mash bill is Rock Hill Farms?

Rock Hill Farms uses Buffalo Trace’s Mash Bill #2, which is the same mash used by Blanton’s, Elmer T. Lee, Hancock’s Reserve, and Ancient Age. Bourbon Roxx+4Straight Bourbon+4Sazerac+4

Because it shares this mash bill lineage, flavor patterns, spice levels, and character may align with those related bourbons—though the single barrel nature can amplify or mute certain elements.

4. Is Rock Hill Farms worth the price?

That depends on which price you pay (retail vs secondary market) and what your expectations are:

• At or near retail price, many reviewers feel it offers reasonable value—delivering solid flavor for $60–$100 (depending on market). bourbonmart.com+4The Whiskey Ramble+4Sazerac+4

• When sold on the secondary / collector market at inflated prices (often 2×–5× above retail), many feel it becomes harder to justify. As one review put it: “It sure ain’t over $300 good.” The Whiskey Ramble

• Because of barrel-to-barrel variation, there is a risk of getting a “less stellar” example—some bottles are praised, others are criticized for dryness, bitterness, or imbalance. The Whiskey Ramble+3Reddit+3Reddit+3

• For collectors and fans of single barrel / mash bill #2 bourbons, its rarity and brand cachet may provide added intangible value.

So, many bourbon lovers regard it as “worth it at the right price and from a good barrel,” but not a guaranteed slam dunk at high markup levels.

5. How should one drink / enjoy Rock Hill Farms?

Here are some best practices:

• Neat in a good glass (Glencairn, copita, or similar) is the default. The 100 proof strength is solid, but not overly fiery.

• A few drops of water or letting it rest can help open aroma and loosen flavors.

• Avoid ice, especially large dilution, which can mute subtle notes.

• Because it’s a single barrel, sip slowly to appreciate the complexity and evolution in the glass.

• Given its variability, tasting with friends and comparing bottles (if possible) can be rewarding.

6. Why is Rock Hill Farms hard to find?

There are a few reasons:

• It is single barrel, thus production (per barrel) is inherently limited.

• It’s not a mass-market bourbon; it tends to be released in more limited allocations.

• Demand from enthusiasts / collectors often outstrips supply, driving secondary market interest and sometimes scarcity.

• Some retailers inflate markups or hold for “allocations,” making it less visible.

• Because Buffalo Trace has many brands and allocations (e.g., BTAC, Weller, etc.), shelf space and distribution may favor other products.

As one reviewer remarked, “I’ve literally noticed one bottle of Rock Hill Farms on display at a liquor store in the past two years.” The Whiskey Ramble

Strengths, Weaknesses & Comparative Context

Strengths

• Single barrel complexity: Because each bottle comes from a unique barrel, you may discover exceptional expressions.

• Higher proof (100) relative to some peers gives it a bit more punch without being over the top.

• Mash bill pedigree: Sharing mash bill #2 connects it to well-regarded bourbons (Blanton’s, etc.), which raises baseline expectations and interest.

• Decanter-style bottle & presentation: The packaging enhances shelf appeal and collector interest.

• At fair prices, good value: When priced reasonably, it can punch above its weight in flavor and character.

Weaknesses / Risks

• Bottle-to-bottle inconsistency: You might get a “good” barrel or a “so-so” barrel; consistency is not guaranteed.

• Overvaluation in secondary market: Many critics argue that prices are inflated beyond what the liquid merits.

• Lack of age statement: Some consumers prefer an explicit age to anchor expectations.

• Dryness, bitterness, oak influence: Some bottles veer toward dryness, sharp oak, or bitterness if not carefully matured. Reviewers have flagged these in certain examples. Sazerac+3Reddit+3Reddit+3

• Scarcity: Difficult to reliably acquire, especially at reasonable retail.

Where It Sits Relative to Peers

Compared to Blanton’s (often more hyped) or Elmer T. Lee (another and more accessible mash bill #2 bourbon), Rock Hill Farms attempts to sit “above” in proof and prestige. Some reviewers believe it outperforms those at similar cost; others argue you’re better off sticking with well-known favorites unless you get a supremely good barrel.

In reviews, some have ranked it above certain Blanton’s bottles, or at least as strong competition for its price. Whiskeys and Bourbons+3The Whiskey Ramble+3Straight Bourbon+3 But again, many emphasize that at high secondary prices, its edge can vanish.

Conclusion

Rock Hill Farms Single Barrel (Bottled in Bond) is a fascinating bourbon in the modern landscape of American whiskey. It combines several attractive features:

• The intrigue of single barrel production (each bottle is unique)

• A solid proof (100) that gives both presence and balance

• Connection to the well-regarded Mash Bill #2 family

• A distinguished bottle design and collector appeal

However, it also carries risks inherent to single barrel products: inconsistency, the possibility of less desirable barrels, and strong dependence on paying the “right” price. Many bourbon fans will tell you that it makes excellent sense if you can find it close to retail and from a barrel you trust. At heavily inflated prices, it becomes more of a gamble.