12 Basic Bourbons That Everyone Must Try

12 Basic Bourbons That Everyone Must Try

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. Shop iconic bourbons!

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. Buy it now for $28.99.

Woodford Reserve Bourbon

This Woodford Reserve Bourbon, has a proof of 90.4, unveils a brilliant honey amber appearance that captivates the senses. The nose is a symphony of rich dried fruit, nuanced hints of mint, and a subtle interplay of oranges coated in a delicate dusting of cocoa. Undertones of faint vanilla and tobacco spice add depth to the aromatic experience. Upon tasting, the bourbon reveals its richness with a chewy, rounded, and remarkably smooth texture. Complex notes of citrus, cinnamon, and cocoa dance on the palate, accompanied by a delightful ensemble of toffee, caramel, chocolate, and spice. The finish is the pièce de résistance – silky smooth and almost creamy at first, leaving a long, warm, and wholly satisfying tail. This exceptional bourbon has garnered numerous accolades, including Gold Medals at prestigious competitions like the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and the International Spirits Challenge, affirming its status as a true connoisseur's choice. Buy it now for $40.00.

Four Roses Single Barrel Bourbon

The Four Roses distinguishes itself in the world of bourbon by producing ten distinct distillate flavors annually. Each flavor undergoes individual aging in new white oak charred barrels, resulting in bourbons characterized by floral and fruity aromas, coupled with smoothness and mellowness. Jim Rutledge, the master distiller, meticulously selects one of these ten flavors for the Four Roses Single Barrel, a treat for bourbon connoisseurs. This particular bourbon exhibits additional flavor nuances, featuring notes of honey, maple syrup, and subtle hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. Each barrel undergoes careful sampling and selection based on superior quality before being hand-bottled. With each bottle labeled by hand, detailing the warehouse and racking location, this limited inventory of Single Barrel Bourbon offers a unique and exquisite tasting experience, with each bottle containing 100 proof Bourbon and filling approximately 235 bottles per barrel. Buy it now for $48.99.

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. Buy it now for $26.99.

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 wheated 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. Buy it now for $29.99.

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. Buy it now for $55.99.

Jim Beam Bourbon

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. Buy it now for $14.99.

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. Buy it now for $39.99.

Old Forester Bourbon 100 Proof

The Old Forester Bourbon 100 Proof is a testament to the bourbon craftsmanship, offering robust and inviting aromas that beckon bourbon enthusiasts. The bouquet unfolds with notes of rich vanilla, dried roses, warm baking spices, and the sweetness of corn. This bourbon stands as a classic representation of the genre, providing a full and satisfying experience for the discerning palate. The accolades it has received, including the 2020 Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, the 2019 Gold at Whiskies of The World, and the Gold at the 2019 International Spirits Challenge in the Straight Bourbon, 10 Years and Younger category, underscore its exceptional quality and appeal among connoisseurs. Buy it now for $40.99.

Bulleit Bourbon

The Bulleit Bourbon  is crafted from the identical high-rye mash bill used in the original expression. The chosen barrels are blended into a single batch and bottled at Stitzel-Weller in Louisville, Kentucky. Staying true to its name, this iteration is presented uncut and unfiltered, directly from the barrel. Notably, each batch exhibits a unique alcohol by volume (ABV), fluctuating between 118 and 125 proof. Buy it now for $39.99.

Angel's Envy Bourbon

Thai bottle of Angel’s Envy takes pride in its meticulous craftsmanship, producing bourbon in small, artfully curated batches. With a commitment to excellence, only eight to twelve barrels are selected at a time for blending, ensuring a precise flavor profile. Each barrel undergoes a thorough tasting process, guaranteeing that only the finest spirits contribute to the final product. What sets Angel's Envy apart is its unique finishing process; after the initial maturation, the bourbon undergoes a finishing touch in ruby port casks sourced from Spain. This distinctive step adds an extra layer of complexity to the flavor profile. Throughout this entire journey, every detail is carefully overseen by the Master Distiller, Lincoln Henderson, reflecting the brand's dedication to achieving unparalleled quality and taste in every bottle. Buy it now for $45.99.

Elijah Craig Bourbon Small Batch

The 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. Buy it now for $22.99.