10 Whiskeys I Always Keep On My Shelf

10 Whiskeys I Always Keep On My Shelf

Whiskey lovers know the joy of a well-stocked shelf, where each bottle tells a story of flavor, craft, and occasion. Regardless of the occasion, my collection of ten go-to whiskeys strikes a balance between variety and reliability. Here’s a peek at the bottles I always keep within reach, ready to pour for any mood or moment.

Wild Turkey Rare Breed Bourbon

Top dog at 58.4% ABV and just $60, this one’s a steal. Cherries, cinnamon, and spice hit you like a freight train, and it sticks around forever. I keep a bottle stashed for late-night hangs, and it never fails to impress. It’s got that old-school charm with a modern kick—your fam will thank ya for bringing it to the table. Buy it now!

Green River Distilling Co. Straight Bourbon Whiskey

This 90 proof whiskey has a rich, golden-amber color and is aged on-site at some of the state's oldest warehouses. With a mashbill of 70% corn, 21% winter rye, and 9% malted barley, Green River is brewed from maize that is sourced locally. Warming spice flavors on the mouth and scent are a result of the higher rye percentage. Buy it now!

Noah's Mill Small Batch Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey

This small-batch Kentucky bourbon, which can be aged for up to 20 years, won the Double Gold Medal in the 2012 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Buy it now!

Blade & Bow Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

The final batch of whiskey produced at the original Stitzel-Weller Distillery is used to make this acclaimed solera-aged bourbon. Buy it now!

Sazerac Straight Rye Whiskey

Wine Enthusiast gave this whiskey, which has been aged for at least six years, a score of 95 points, making it a "Best Buy." Buy it now!

Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Straight Bourbon Whiskey

This bourbon, which was double-barreled in custom casks, won the Double Gold Medal at the 2013 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Buy it now!

W.L. Weller Special Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

This unique bourbon won a Silver Medal at the 2019 World Whiskies Awards and a Gold Medal at the 2019 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Buy it now!

Frey Ranch Farm Strength Uncut Bourbon

This Nevada gem packs a punch at 62.15% ABV, and it’s straight farm-to-glass goodness. I tried this at a buddy’s BBQ last summer, and it hit me with big cinnamon and leather vibes right off the bat. It’s got this buttery, sweet kick—like custard with a splash of tropical fruit—that makes every sip feel like a party in your mouth. Totally worth snagging for $80 if you wanna flex some unique flavor. Buy it now!

Ben Holladay Bottled In Bond Soft Red Wheat Bourbon

Coming outta Missouri, this 50% ABV bourbon is smooth as heck for just $52. It’s got this creamy, fruity thing going on—think pears and honey with a spicy clove twist. I cracked a bottle open during a chill night with my crew, and we couldn’t get over how it lingers with vanilla and oak. Perfect for newbies or pros who want something tasty without breaking the bank. Buy it now!

Michter’s 10-Year Bourbon

For $350, this 47.2% ABV single-barrel bourbon is a classic. It’s all leather and cherries with a sneaky chocolate finish. I got my hands on a bottle for my birthday, and sipping it by the fire was pure bliss—smooth but packed with flavor. It’s not crazy rare, so you can grab one and still look like the whiskey MVP at the party. Buy it now!