20 Bartenders Weigh In On What’s the Most Underrated Bourbon

20 Bartenders Weigh In On What’s the Most Underrated Bourbon

In the ever-expanding world of bourbon, discerning true quality amidst the plethora of options can be a challenge. As popularity surges, so does the diversity of choices, making it difficult to distinguish between genuine excellence and mere hype. Enter the realm of underrated bottles, where hidden gems await discovery. To navigate this landscape, we sought the insights of bartenders nationwide, tapping into their expertise to uncover the bourbons that deserve far more recognition than they currently receive. From timeless classics like Four Roses to innovative blends marrying Eastern and Western techniques, these underrated selections not only deliver exceptional taste but also offer excellent value for their price. With many of these bottles readily available at local liquor stores, these recommendations promise to elevate any bourbon enthusiast's drinking experience.

Old Dominick Huling Station Straight Bourbon

Old Dominick Huling Station Straight Bourbon stands as a hidden gem among bourbons, hailing from Memphis with a remarkable smoothness that often goes unrecognized. Perfect for crafting classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Sazerac, this bourbon's distinguished profile sets it apart, inviting connoisseurs to savor it slowly, perhaps over a whiskey ball ice cube, appreciating its unique character even when enjoyed neat. Buy it now!

Old Grand-Dad Bonded

Old Grand-Dad Bonded is aged for a minimum of four years before being bottled at 100 proof. Made from Jim Beam’s higher rye Bourbon mash bill of 63% corn, 27% rye, and 10% malted barley, it is the product of one distillery and one distiller in a single season. Buy it now!

Eagle Rare 10-Year Single Barrel

Eagle Rare 10 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey undergoes a minimum ten-year maturation in new, American oak casks, developing a golden honey hue and enticing aromas of gentle toast, fresh tobacco, and bananas. On the palate, flavors of chocolate, almonds, melons, raisins, and dried fruits are accented by subtle vanilla undertones. The finish is enduring and robust, with lingering hints of roasted nuts and corn. Buy it now!

Sweetens Cove Kennessee

After conducting consumer blind taste tests, we opted to feature Sweetens Cove Kennessee in our Black Manhattan, a decision unanimously favored by participants. Despite its formidable 111 proof, Kennessee remarkably retains its mixability, seamlessly blending into our cocktail menu. Buy it now!

Medley Bros. Bourbon 102 Proof

Medley Bros. Bourbon 102 Proof, aged for at least four years, bears the hallmark of five bourbon aficionado brothers' craftsmanship spanning 75 years, offering enticing notes of vanilla, milk chocolate, roasted corn, and caramelized pineapple. Priced at around $30, it serves as the key ingredient in Bar Lesieur's Bourbon Beurre Blanc cocktail. Buy it now!

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!

Old Charter 8

When it comes to bourbon, one can't overlook Old Charter 8. In a landscape where obtaining many Buffalo Trace bourbons has become increasingly challenging, Old Charter stands out as a reliable option. Sharing the same mash recipe as several other highly sought-after Buffalo Trace offerings, the main difference lies in its maturation and age. What sets Old Charter apart is its accessibility and affordability, offering enthusiasts a satisfying option without the hefty allocation prices associated with other sought-after brands. Buy it now!

Four Roses Single Barrel

This Single Barrel from Four Roses presents a slightly proofed variation of their renowned OBSV recipe. The OBSV recipe is characterized by a delicate fruit yeast and a high-rye mash bill. Specifically chosen from the north side of Warehouse P—a cherished location for Four Roses' single barrel enthusiasts—this selection highlights the significant impact that barrel position and warehouse conditions can have on the whiskey's flavor profile. Buy it now!

Del Bac Normandie

Del Bac Normandie, an exclusive Tucson Annual Limited release whiskey, often flies under the radar despite its exceptional quality. Boasting a delightful citrus-forward aroma and a satisfying caramel fruity finish, it stands shoulder to shoulder with the esteemed Weller C.Y.P.B. Buy it now!

Ezra Brooks 99

Concluding this remarkable collection is the Ezra Brooks 99, hailing from Kentucky and boasting a commendable score of 92. At an approachable 49.5% ABV and priced at just $32, this bourbon embodies the spirit of Kentucky craftsmanship without breaking the bank. Its well-balanced profile and affordability make it a standout choice for those seeking a high-quality bourbon that delivers both on flavor and value. As the final entry in this curated list, Ezra Brooks 99 leaves a lasting impression, proving that exceptional whisky experiences can come at a modest price. Buy it now!

Russell’s Reserve 10 Year Old

Handcrafted by Master Distiller Jimmy Russell and his son Eddie, this small batch bourbon captivates with a woody, piney aromatic surface layered over dry scents of grain and resin. Initial notes of corny sweetness give way to a subtle hint of butterscotch, culminating in a full-bodied, sweet, and clean flavor profile. Recognized with a Gold Medal at the 2007 San Francisco Spirits Competition, this bourbon exemplifies excellence and craftsmanship. Buy it now!

W.L. Weller Special Reserve

The W.L. Weller Special Reserve is an essential choice for bourbon enthusiasts, especially those embarking on a journey into the world of this exceptional spirit. With a remarkable, well-balanced, and velvety smooth character, this bourbon stands out in its price range. What distinguishes it is the unique mash bill incorporating wheat, providing a softer and sweeter flavor. Presented in a one-liter bottle, it's perfect for sharing with friends, family, or at bourbon-themed gatherings. Whether sipped solo or in cocktails, W.L. Weller Special Reserve 1L enhances any occasion, making it an excellent gift for whiskey aficionados, paired with fascinating facts about this award-winning spirit. Its versatility extends to Southern cuisine pairings, elevating the enjoyment of dishes like smoked pork, ribs, and spicy gumbo. With its ample size and attractive price point, W.L. Weller Special Reserve 1L is sure to leave a lasting impression at holiday parties and special events. Buy it now for $99.99.

Four Roses

The Four Roses Bourbon Yellow Label is a timeless classic known for its smooth and approachable character. This bourbon, crafted by the esteemed Four Roses Distillery, boasts a mellow and well-balanced profile that has earned it a permanent place among bourbon enthusiasts. With a blend of ten distinct bourbon recipes, the Yellow Label expression showcases a harmonious combination of sweet, fruity, and spicy notes. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in your favorite cocktail, Four Roses Bourbon Yellow Label offers a versatile and enjoyable sipping experience, making it a go-to choice for those seeking a reliable and satisfying bourbon. Buy it now!

Resurgent Young American

Resurgent Young American bourbon offers a delightful complexity that shines in cocktails while retaining its appeal when sipped neat. With a robust 104 proof, it caters to whiskey enthusiasts who seek a balance beyond the sweetness often found in higher-shelf bourbons. A perfect complement to cocktails like the Black Manhattan, especially when paired with Amaro Averna and Dolin Rouge, Resurgent Young American bourbon delivers a nuanced and satisfying drinking experience. Buy it now!

High West American Prairie Bourbon Whiskey

High West Distillery presents a delectable blend of Bourbons from the American West, crafted in support of the American Prairie Reserve—an admirable charitable organization dedicated to preserving and restoring a vast area of Great Plain Prairie. With 10% of post-tax profits contributing to this meaningful cause, the whiskey itself is a blend of spirits aged between 2 to 13 years, bottled at 46% ABV, and remains non-chill filtered. Notably, the blend's high Rye mash bills bring forth an intriguing spice note, contributing to the allure of this exceptional bourbon. Enjoy a sip of this whiskey while also supporting the preservation of natural landscapes. Buy it now!

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!

J. Rieger & Co. Bottled in Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Hailing from Kansas City, Missouri, this small craft whiskey is created from a mash bill consisting of 56% corn, 30% rye, and 14% malted barley. The whiskey is patiently aged for six years before undergoing batching, proofing, and bottling. Buy it now!

Legent Bourbon Whiskey

This bottle of Legent is not just a bourbon; it's an unparalleled creation that defies traditional boundaries. This extraordinary whiskey is the brainchild of a groundbreaking collaboration between two legends in the whiskey world—Fred Noe, the seventh-generation Master Distiller from the founding family of bourbon and Jim Beam, and Shinji, the Chief Blender from the founding house of Japanese whisky and Suntory. What began as a passion project evolved into a fusion of Kentucky bourbon-making heritage and Japanese whisky-blending techniques, pushing the limits of both traditions. After years of meticulous collaboration, Buy it now!