23 Top Rated Bourbons to Drink Right Now

23 Top Rated Bourbons to Drink Right Now

Bourbon, often hailed as the quintessential American spirit, holds a complexity that belies its seemingly straightforward nature. Beyond its surface lies a realm of intricate factors—additional regulations, hype, marketing tactics, and enduring myths—that contribute to its allure. Since its resurgence in 2008, bourbon has enjoyed a sustained boom, yet its roots remain firmly grounded in tradition. To navigate this rich landscape, we turn to esteemed bourbon expert Fred Minnick. With a wealth of experience and expertise, Minnick offers invaluable insights into this beloved libation, shedding light on its nuanced intricacies. As a prolific author, judge, and authority in the bourbon world, his perspective illuminates the true essence of this cherished American tradition. Shop Bourbons!

Best Overall Bourbon: Knob Creek Small Batch Bourbon

This bottle of Jim Beam's Small Batch Bourbon is a testament to the artistry of aging, having matured in flash-fired white oak barrels. The intense charring process imparts a layer of red caramelized wood, contributing to the deep amber hue and sweet flavor of this 100-proof whiskey. With a moderately full-bodied profile, the palate is graced by notes of marmalade, honey, and maple. It exhibits a rounded and fragrant character, with ample fruitiness harmonizing with rich woody elements. The finish is long, smooth, sweet, and undeniably delicious. Buy it now for $39.99.

Best Upgrade Bourbon: Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon

In 2024, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof will once again grace our home bar cart. This distinguished expression, paying homage to the Baptist preacher often credited with bourbon's invention, is released periodically throughout the year. While each batch may vary slightly, you can anticipate a palate brimming with flavors of toffee, peppery rye, vanilla beans, cinnamon sugar, oaky wood, and subtle wintry spices. Bold, rich, and full-bodied, it's a whiskey meant to be savored slowly, especially on a crisp evening. Buy it now!

Best Budget Bourbon: Evan Williams

This bourbon from Heaven Hill delivers a perfect balance of corn sweetness and oak depth, complemented by a subtle hint of mint that adds a refreshing touch without overwhelming the senses. Aged for extra years in the barrel, it boasts a smoother character that makes it ideal for savoring neat or over ice. Buy it now for $19.99!

Best Bourbon for Cocktails: Four Roses Bourbon

Subtle notes of corn and vanilla harmonize with floral aromas, intertwining with flavors of mint and spice. This whiskey is characterized by its simplicity and mellowness, culminating in a unique, long, and soft finish. Bottled at 80 proof, it serves as an excellent base for crafting mixed drinks with a sophisticated, contemporary flair. Buy it now for $23.99!

Best Craft Bourbon: New Riff Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

New Riff Distilling's core Bourbon expression is a robust and high-rye whiskey that delivers a full-bodied and savory character with a touch of spice. Adhering to the high standards set by America's 1897 Bottled-in-Bond Act, this bourbon is crafted without chill filtration, ensuring a premium and unadulterated experience. The mash bill features non-GMO grains, including 65% corn, 30% rye, and 5% malted barley, offering a unique take on Kentucky's esteemed whiskey traditions. Aged for four years in 53-gallon toasted and charred new oak barrels, New Riff Bourbon reflects a commitment to quality without any shortcuts in the production process. Buy it now!

Best Underrated Bourbon: Old Grand Dad 114 Bourbon

Introduced in 1882, Old Grand-Dad Kentucky Straight Bourbon 114 PF has stood the test of time, gaining renewed popularity among a younger generation of bourbon enthusiasts who are rediscovering vintage bourbons. Known for its distinctive flavor profile, this expression is crafted with a higher proportion of rye, contributing to a lighter and spicier taste. With a robust proof of 114, this Kentucky straight bourbon offers a unique and enduring character that has captivated whiskey drinkers throughout its long history. Buy it now!

Best Tennessee Bourbon: George Dickel Bourbon Whisky Aged 8 Years

While George Dickel is celebrated for its Tennessee Whiskeys, their lesser-known bourbon is equally impressive. With a mash bill comprising 84% corn, 8% rye, and 8% malted barley, this 90-proof bourbon, aged for a minimum of eight years in charred oak barrels, offers a delightful complexity at an affordable price. Its palate boasts flavors of orange peel, candied cherries, vanilla, caramel, and oak, making it an ideal choice for everyday enjoyment. Buy it now!

Best Affordable Sipping Bourbon: Larceny Small Batch Bourbon

The Larceny Kentucky Straight Bourbon, steeped in historical legacy, traces its roots back to John E. Fitzgerald, a post-Civil War distiller who founded a distillery along the Kentucky River. Fitzgerald's Old Fitzgerald Bourbon, renowned for its quality, eventually landed in the hands of Julian P. "Pappy" Van Winkle, sealing its fate as one of the world's most celebrated bourbons. Larceny pays homage to Fitzgerald's discerning taste and the Old Fitzgerald brand, incorporating a unique mash of corn, wheat, malted barley, and rye. Distilled in Kentucky limestone water and fermented with a proprietary yeast strain, Larceny honors tradition by choosing wheat as its secondary grain, creating a distinctive and flavorful bourbon. Buy it now for $30.99.

Best Bourbon to Pair with Food: Maker's Mark

Crafted by Bill Samuels, Sr. with the intent of making a bourbon that he would personally savor, Maker's Mark stands out for its smooth and approachable nature, offering an easy finish that was revolutionary compared to the prevalent hot and harsh whiskies of its time. Produced gradually in small batches within our National Historic Landmark distillery in Loretto, Kentucky, Maker's Mark has become a staple in enhancing various cocktails. Nevertheless, many enthusiasts still prefer to enjoy it neat or over ice with a splash of water, highlighting its versatility and appeal as a standalone whiskey. Buy now for $33.49.

Best Kentucky Straight Bourbon: 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.

Best Bourbon for a Party: Early Times Bottled-in-Bond

This genuine American bourbon adheres to strict regulations, being bottled in bond, ensuring its high quality and authenticity. With a robust 50% ABV, it boasts vibrant and fruity notes of peach, raspberry, and dried apricot, offering a refreshing and flavorful experience with every sip. Buy it now!

Best Gateway Bourbon: Four Roses Small Batch

The Four Roses perfects the marrying 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%. Buy it now for $39.99.

Best Versatile Bourbon: Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Bourbon undergoes a unique maturation process, where the award-winning Distiller's Select Bourbon is matured a second time in deeply toasted, lightly charred bourbon barrels. This double-barreling technique extracts additional soft, sweet oak character, resulting in a rich and vibrant flavor profile distinct from other Kentucky whiskeys. Master Distiller Chris Morris emphasizes the significance of "double the maturation, double the wood exposure" in achieving the Double Oaked character. Aromas of dark fruit and marzipan lead to flavors of vanilla, dark caramel, and hazelnut, culminating in a long, creamy finish. Recognized for its exceptional quality, Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Bourbon was honored as a Double Gold Medal Winner at the 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Buy it now!

Most Nuanced Bourbon: Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style Bourbon Whiskey

Old Forester holds a distinctive position as one of the select distilleries granted a special permit to continue production during Prohibition. In the 1920s, Owsley Brown I, then the company president, laid down a barrel sample that had been batched at the onset of this historical period. This expression is a tribute to that specific barrel sample, crafted to celebrate the uninterrupted legacy of whiskey distillation by the company. Bottled at a robust 115 proof, the whiskey reveals a nose characterized by potent notes of cherry jam and oak spice. The palate offers a delightful interplay of caramel, malty nutty flavors, and spices interwoven with cedar undertones. The finish is elegantly prolonged, leaving a lingering hint of campfire marshmallows—a testament to the enduring craftsmanship and heritage of Old Forester. Buy now for $64.99.

Best Bourbon to Drink Neat: 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!

Best Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon: Henry McKenna Bottled-in-Bond

While some might argue that shining a light on this bottle contradicts our quest for hidden gems, McKenna has quietly remained under the radar for far too long. Offering a bottled-in-bond single barrel is commendable on its own, but Heaven Hill has gone above and beyond by maintaining a 10-year age statement at an incredibly affordable price point. Sharing the same mash bill as Elijah Craig and Evan Williams, McKenna boasts quality that surpasses its recognition. With its value and potential, it's only a matter of time before this hidden treasure gains the attention it deserves, so it's wise to stock up while you can. Buy it now!

Best Wheated Bourbon: Wilderness Trail Straight Wheated Bourbon

Wilderness Trail Wheated Bourbon stands as a testament to exceptional craftsmanship, representing a small-batch, small-grain Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Bottled in Bond. Distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky, this Small Batch selection is crafted from 100% local grains and benefits from premium cooper select barrels utilizing 18-month-old air-dried staves. With a distinctive mash bill featuring 64% corn, 24% wheat, and 12% malted barley, utilizing Wilderness Trail's proprietary yeast strains, it boasts one of the highest wheat ratios in a Kentucky Bourbon. Aged for a minimum of four years in #4 char barrels at a low 110 proof upon entry, this results in a rich, non-chill filtered small batch Bourbon. Expect a flavor profile that includes vanilla, charred oak, cinnamon, and a long, sweet finish characterized by oak spices, toffee, and dark fruits. Buy it for $63.99.

Best Giftable Bourbon: 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!

Best High-End Craft Bourbon: Stellum Bourbon

This bourbon blend is crafted from whiskeys sourced from Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee, showcasing the artistry of master blenders. Bottled at a robust cask strength of 115 proof, its flavor profile is characterized by intensity and complexity, offering a rich and nuanced drinking experience. Buy it now!

Best Pappy Van Winkle Alternative: W.L. Weller Bourbon 12 Year Old

Belonging to the distinguished wheated bourbon family, the twelve-year-old W.L. Weller stands out by undergoing an extended aging process uncommon among most wheated bourbons. The result is a smooth, approachable, and well-balanced bourbon, distinguished by its beautiful deep bronze color. This expression reflects the meticulous craftsmanship and commitment to quality synonymous with the W.L. Weller brand. Buy it now on sale for $50.

Best Hidden Gem Bourbon: Old Ezra Brooks 7 Year Old Straight Bourbon Whiskey

The Old Ezra Brooks 7 Year Old Straight Bourbon Whiskey stands as a testament to the art of bourbon-making. This Kentucky straight bourbon undergoes a patient aging process in new, charred white oak barrels, maturing gracefully over seven years. What sets it apart is its commitment to authenticity, as it is bottled at barrel strength. The result is a finely crafted bourbon that captures the essence of time, showcasing the rich interplay of flavors and complexity that can only be achieved through meticulous aging. With every sip, the drinker embarks on a journey through seven years of maturation, making seven the truly lucky number for those seeking a genuine bourbon experience. Buy it now!

Best Blended Bourbon: Barrell Foundation Bourbon

Barrell Craft Spirits, renowned for their cask-strength single barrels and blended batches of bourbon, rye, and American whiskey, has ventured into the realm of non-cask-strength bourbon for a broader audience. This whiskey represents a blend from Kentucky, Indiana, Tennessee, and Maryland, meticulously proofed down to a smooth 100-proof expression. Buy it now for $54.99!

Best Grail Bourbon: William Larue Weller Bourbon 2023

The William Larue Weller Bourbon 2023 invites connoisseurs into a realm of unrivaled craftsmanship and tradition, showcasing the pinnacle of premium bourbons at an impressive 133.6 proof. This release, part of the esteemed Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, elevates the sensory experience with a symphony of Islay mastery. The nose delights with candied notes of dark brown sugar and vanilla bean, setting the stage for a warm and full palate that unfolds layers of stewed cherry and brown sugar crumble. The finish is robust and dense, enriched with baking spice nuances and a subtle hint of maple syrup. Whether you're a seasoned bourbon enthusiast or embarking on a journey into premium whiskies, the William Larue Weller 2023 promises a tasting experience that is both profound and memorable, encapsulating the essence of Kentucky's rich bourbon heritage. Buy it now for $1,999.99.