10 Classic Bourbons to Keep on Your Shelf

10 Classic Bourbons to Keep on Your Shelf

Classic bourbon bottles and brands that will never go out of style are those iconic spirits that have withstood the test of time, embodying the essence of American whiskey craftsmanship. These timeless expressions, often recognized by their distinctive bottle designs and rich histories, have earned a permanent place in the hearts of bourbon enthusiasts.

Michter's US*1 Kentucky Straight Bourbon

This Michter’s Bourbon is crafted from a meticulously chosen mashbill showcasing top-tier American corn, Michter's US1 Bourbon undergoes a maturation process that extends beyond eight years, reaching optimal perfection. This genuinely small-batch bourbon is meticulously curated, usually consisting of no more than two dozen barrels per batch, eliminating the possibility of blending imperfections and demanding excellence from each barrel. Embodying the essence of Kentucky's Bluegrass State, Michter's US1 Kentucky Straight Bourbon offers a nuanced, mellow, and earthy profile, capturing the true spirit of its origin.

Elijah Craig Bourbon Small Batch

This bottle of Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon stands out as a remarkable value, offering an exceptional experience for bourbon enthusiasts. The inviting bouquet opens with delightful aromas of honey, sweet corn, vanilla, and brown sugar, setting the stage for what unfolds on the equally luscious palate. This bourbon strikes a perfect balance, combining boldness with smoothness, as flavors of honey, vanilla, and molasses take center stage, complemented by a subtle dry oakiness. Whether savored neat or with a touch of water, Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon delivers a memorable and satisfying drinking experience.

Knob Creek Small Batch Bourbon

This bottle of Knob Creek, which is a distinguished bourbon brand under the Jim Beam umbrella, is celebrated for its commitment to traditional craftsmanship and robust flavor. Named after Abraham Lincoln's childhood home, this small-batch Kentucky straight bourbon is aged for a patient nine years, longer than most counterparts, in charred American oak barrels. With a proof of 100, Knob Creek delivers a rich and full-bodied taste characterized by deep caramel, vanilla, and nutty undertones, embodying a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Recognized for its consistency and bold character, Knob Creek has carved a niche as a go-to choice for bourbon enthusiasts seeking a hearty and well-aged whiskey experience.

Four Roses Small Batch

Marrying the art of mingling multiple Bourbon recipes, our Master Distiller has expertly selected four original and limited Bourbons at the pinnacle of maturation. The result is a perfectly balanced small batch Bourbon that unveils a mellow symphony of rich, spicy flavors complemented by sweet, fruity aromas and nuanced notes of sweet oak and caramel. The finish is soft, smooth, and pleasantly long-lasting. Best enjoyed straight up, on the rocks, or with a splash, this exceptional Bourbon boasts a proof of 90 and an alcohol/volume of 45%.

Maker's Mark Bourbon

The Maker's Mark Bourbon is an iconic American whiskey known for its distinctive red wax-dipped bottles and handcrafted approach. Produced in Loretto, Kentucky, Maker's Mark has maintained a commitment to quality and tradition since its inception in 1958. This bourbon, crafted with corn, red winter wheat, and malted barley, offers a smooth and approachable taste. The signature sweetness of the wheat complements the notes of caramel, vanilla, and subtle spice, creating a well-balanced flavor profile. Maker's Mark is carefully aged in charred American white oak barrels, contributing to its rich amber hue and mellow finish. With its recognizable bottle and consistently satisfying taste, Maker's Mark Bourbon stands as a classic choice for bourbon enthusiasts and those exploring the world of American whiskey.

Bulleit Bourbon

The Bulleit Bourbon, a standout in the world of American whiskey, is recognized for its distinct high-rye mashbill and unique frontier-inspired bottle design. Produced by the Bulleit Distilling Company, this Kentucky straight bourbon offers a bold and spicy flavor profile with prominent notes of rye, complemented by hints of vanilla and dried fruit. Aged in charred American oak barrels, Bulleit Bourbon embodies a well-balanced complexity, making it a versatile choice for sipping or crafting classic cocktails. Its smooth finish and character have contributed to Bulleit's popularity among whiskey enthusiasts seeking a robust and flavorful bourbon that pays homage to its Old West heritage.

Buffalo Trace

The Buffalo Trace, a venerable name in the bourbon world, hails from the eponymous distillery in Kentucky and is revered for its rich history and exceptional craftsmanship. As a Kentucky straight bourbon, Buffalo Trace is meticulously crafted from a mashbill of corn, rye, and barley and aged in new charred oak barrels. Known for its approachable yet complex profile, this whiskey offers notes of toffee, vanilla, and a hint of spice, creating a well-balanced and smooth sipping experience. What sets Buffalo Trace apart is its reputation for consistency and quality, making it a favorite among both casual drinkers and seasoned bourbon aficionados alike. The distillery's commitment to tradition and innovation has solidified Buffalo Trace as a cornerstone in the world of American whiskey.

Woodford Reserve

The Woodford Reserve, a distinguished Kentucky bourbon, stands as a testament to meticulous craftsmanship and a commitment to excellence. Distilled in the iconic Woodford Reserve Distillery, this small-batch bourbon is crafted from a carefully selected mashbill of corn, rye, and malted barley. Notably, it undergoes a triple distillation process, contributing to its remarkable smoothness. Aged in new charred oak barrels, Woodford Reserve boasts a rich and complex flavor profile with notes of dried fruit, vanilla, and a touch of spice. With its copper pot stills and commitment to tradition, Woodford Reserve has garnered a reputation for producing a premium and well-balanced bourbon that appeals to both connoisseurs and newcomers to the world of fine whiskey.

Wild Turkey 101

The Wild Turkey 101 is a renowned Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey celebrated for its bold and robust character. Distilled by the Wild Turkey Distillery, this 101-proof spirit derives its name from the high alcohol content of 101 proof (50.5% alcohol by volume). With a rich amber hue and a complex flavor profile, Wild Turkey 101 boasts notes of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of spice, delivering a warm and full-bodied experience. Its distinctive taste is attributed to a longer-than-average maturation process in new charred American oak barrels. This bourbon has garnered a loyal following among whiskey enthusiasts who appreciate its intense and well-balanced flavors, making Wild Turkey 101 a timeless and classic choice for those seeking a hearty bourbon experience.

Jim Beam Bourbon Whiskey

The Jim Beam Bourbon, a venerable American whiskey, is a cornerstone of the bourbon landscape with a heritage dating back to 1795. Produced by the Jim Beam Distillery, this Kentucky straight bourbon is renowned for its smooth and approachable character. Distilled from a mash bill predominantly composed of corn, aged in charred oak barrels, and bottled at 80 proof, Jim Beam offers a mellow sweetness with notes of vanilla, caramel, and a subtle touch of oak. It has become a staple in bars and households alike, enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as a key ingredient in classic cocktails. Jim Beam's enduring popularity lies in its consistency and accessibility, making it a go-to choice for bourbon enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.