Top 10 Premium Bourbons You Must Try

Experiencing a sip of bourbon encapsulates American heritage. Recognized as the national spirit, this rich brown liquor has become a lucrative industry, generating over $8.5 billion in Kentucky alone, which produces about 95% of all bourbon.

What Is Bourbon?

Originating in the late 1700s, bourbon is America’s favorite whiskey style. Its unique production involves mashing at least 51% corn with other grains like wheat, then fermenting and distilling in traditional tubs and vats, resulting in a clear ‘white dog’ spirit. This is aged in new American oak barrels, with aging duration influencing flavor and quality. Varieties include straight bourbon aged two years and premium options aged over a decade, such as Pappy Van Winkle. The global demand continues to grow, prompting aficionados to explore the top bourbons available today.

Buffalo Trace

Known for its innovative releases, Buffalo Trace offers experimental options like E.H. Taylor's four-grain bourbon, blending corn, rye, wheat, and barley for a spicy, earthy flavor. Prices start around $60, and a 10-year single barrel offers an exceptional tasting experience.

Pappy Van Winkle

Celebrated as one of the world's finest bourbons, Pappy Van Winkle's limited editions are rare treasures, aged 15, 20, or 23 years, with bottles costing thousands of dollars. Its craftsmanship justifies the premium price tag.

Evan Williams

As Kentucky’s oldest distillery, Evan Williams offers robust flavors at accessible prices, around $30. Its single barrel variants boast notes of caramel and vanilla, appealing to both novices and connoisseurs.

Jim Beam

If warmth is what you seek on cold nights, Jim Beam White Label is a reliable choice. Aged four years, it features hints of spice and is a staple of Kentucky’s bourbon scene.

Angel’s Envy

Showcasing intricate bottles and award-winning flavor, Angel’s Envy is a premium bourbon aged under 8 years, perfect for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Four Roses

Named after Al Young, Four Roses features a blend of vintage bourbons with fruity and floral flavors like apple and pear. Its Yellow Label, aged five years, is highly regarded and collectible.

Woodford Reserve

Ideal for gift-giving, Woodford Reserve's small-batch bottles offer distinct flavors. A bottle costs approximately $60 and makes a memorable gift for special celebrations.

George T. Stagg

Part of Buffalo Trace’s high-proof collection, George T. Stagg is rare, aged 15 years, and only distributed twice annually. Valued around $700, it’s favored by bourbon aficionados.

Willet Pot

Willet Pot bourbon, aged 8 years and priced around $40, has gained recent popularity with roots tracing back generations, offering quality and tradition.

Eagle Rare

A distinguished Buffalo Trace bourbon, Eagle Rare features dark fruit and orange peel notes. Aged ten years in charred oak, it's smooth enough to enjoy neat with a hint of sweetness or spice.

Additional notable bourbons include Hudson Baby Bourbon, Blanton’s, Booker’s, Noah’s Mill, W.L. Weller, Old Forester Birthday, Old Ripy, and Black Maple Hill, perfect for expanding your collection. Whether enjoyed straight, over ice, or mixed in cocktails, bourbon provides a versatile drinking experience. Cheers to finding your next favorite bottle!