24 Of The Best High-Proof Bourbons

24 Of The Best High-Proof Bourbons

Cask Strength bourbon, also known as barrel proof or barrel strength, is a formidable expression that captures the undiluted intensity and richness of a bourbon straight from the barrel. Unfiltered and untouched by water, these spirits are bottled at their natural, full-strength potency, often presenting an elevated alcohol by volume (ABV). Cask Strength whiskey enthusiasts appreciate the unbridled complexity and robust flavors that emerge during the aging process without any dilution. The lack of water intervention allows the drinker to experience the full spectrum of tasting notes, ranging from deep and intricate oakiness to intense bursts of spices, caramel, and other nuanced flavors.

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof

Barrel proof, though lacking a precise legal definition, typically signifies that the whiskey in the bottle hasn't been diluted before bottling, providing a near-authentic experience of drinking straight from the cask. Elijah Craig Barrel Proof, crafted at Kentucky's esteemed Heaven Hill distillery, stands out as one of the finest in this category. Released thrice annually, it consistently delivers excellence, with variations in both proof and age. Connoisseurs can explore the unique characteristics of different releases by sampling them side by side.

Booker's Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Prepare to indulge in a truly unique bourbon experience with Booker's, a remarkable spirit unlike any other. It stands out as one of the few bourbons that remains uncut, unfiltered, and directly drawn from the barrel. With a natural proof ranging between 121 and 127, and an aging period of six to eight years, Booker's captivates the palate with an array of intense flavors. From the bold presence of oak tannin and smoky vanilla to the subtler notes of mocha and coffee, each sip unveils a spectrum of complexity. To tailor the taste and finish to your liking, consider adding a touch of spring water. Booker's Bourbon is an unparalleled, straight-from-the-barrel gem, ensuring a bourbon experience that stands as the epitome of rarity and excellence.

Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel

Experience the epitome of bourbon authenticity with Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel, a robust expression celebrating the unfiltered essence of single-barrel bourbon. This tribute to Elmer T. Lee's innovation is undiluted and unapologetically bold, showcasing a unique proof with each bottle. Unveil a symphony of flavors, including caramel, vanilla, dark chocolate, and baking spices, harmonized by a rich oakiness from maturation in Warehouse H. For the whiskey connoisseur seeking an undisturbed experience, Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel is a crafted testament to authenticity, delivering a taste as pure as the day it was barrelled.

Colonel E.H. Taylor Barrel Proof

Colonel E.H. Taylor Barrel Proof bourbon stands as a testament to the rich heritage of Buffalo Trace Distillery and the legacy of its namesake, Colonel Edmund Haynes Taylor, Jr. This exceptional bourbon is meticulously crafted from hand-selected barrels, bottled directly from the cask, and left uncut and unfiltered, boasting a robust proof exceeding 125. Reflecting the traditional methods predating Prohibition, the whiskey pays homage to a bygone era of craftsmanship. A sensory journey begins with a nose of cooked berries, evolving into a rich caramel and subtly floral aroma. The palate delivers a bold and spicy experience, enveloping the mouth with notes of toasty vanilla, dried oak, and pepper. The finish is enduring, characterized by a powerful rye essence and lingering fruits, creating a smooth, potent, and uncompromising taste reminiscent of Colonel E.H. Taylor's legacy.

Still Austin Cask Strength Bourbon

This distinctive iteration of our classic Straight Bourbon boasts a bold and robust character, earning its reputation as the "metal" version of our beloved spirit. Crafted from a meticulous selection of premium barrels and bottled at a formidable 118 proof, it delivers a potent yet refined drinking experience. Our skilled distillers have expertly balanced power with subtlety, resulting in a spirit that captivates the senses. With aromas of brandied cherries mingling with fresh mint, alongside hints of blackberry cobbler and cinnamon toast in brown butter, each sip offers a harmonious fusion of intense flavors and nuanced complexity.

Weller Full Proof Wheated Bourbon

The Weller legacy has traversed time, originating with the renowned Stitzel-Weller Distilling Company in 1935, later finding a home at Buffalo Trace Distillery under Sazerac ownership. The W. L. Weller brand, now in the hands of Sazerac, showcases their commitment to robust flavors. In the realm of high-proof Bourbons, Weller Full Proof lives up to its name, presenting the famous wheated Bourbon at its unadulterated, cask strength of 57% ABV. The absence of chill filtration ensures an explosion of aromatic esters and essential oils, offering an intense flavor experience that stands boldly, even against the chill of ice, making Weller Full Proof a true rock star in the world of craft Bourbons.

Larceny Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Barrel Proof A124

The inaugural Larceny Barrel Proof release of 2024 embodies a timeless character. Inside the bottle, you'll find a harmonious blend of six- to eight-year-old bourbons sourced from the wheated bourbon barrels at Heaven Hill. These carefully selected barrels were batched and bottled in their pure, unaltered form, delivering an authentic and unadulterated expression of the whiskey within.

1792 Full Proof

The name Full Proof comes from the fact that the proof (125) of the bottle remains the same as it was before it went into the barrel. This powerful expression may not appeal to beginners, as it is unapologetically strong with a prominent oak presence on the nose. Unique tasting notes include caramelized sugar and dark chocolate, complemented by a range of baking spices. This bourbon offers a full-bodied flavor that enthusiasts will appreciate. For those looking to elevate their bourbon game with a high-proof spirit, this provides a memorable tasting experience.

Wild Turkey 101

The Wild Turkey 101 embodies both potency and flavor, showcasing the legacy of the Ripy Brothers who began distilling on Wild Turkey Hill in Kentucky in 1869. Their flagship product, Wild Turkey, soared to become the distillery's best-seller, prompting a name change in recognition of its success. Following various changes in ownership, the Campari Group, based in Italy, now oversees operations, producing a diverse range of Bourbons under the renowned Wild Turkey brand. As one of the world's most recognized Bourbon brands, Wild Turkey 101 stands out as America's #1 selling premium Bourbon. Aged in deeply charred barrels with a #4 "alligator char," it derives its complexity and depth of flavor that has garnered a devoted following across generations. Distinctively bottled at "101 proof" (50.5% ABV), the whiskey's name reflects its remarkable complexity and power, leading to consistent acclaim with numerous gold medals awarded over the years. Notably, Academy Award-winning actor Matthew McConaughey became the brand ambassador and art director for Wild Turkey last year. 

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.

Maker's Mark Cask Strength Bourbon

Maker's Mark Cask Strength is a testament to the legacy and innovation of Burk's Distillery, now owned by Beam-Suntory. Established in 1885 and revitalized by T. William "Bill" Samuels in 1953, Maker's Mark emerged as a pioneer in the premium bourbon market. The iconic red sealing wax on the bottles, introduced in 1958, remains a symbol of quality craftsmanship. Unlike its counterparts, Maker's Mark Bourbons prioritize taste over age, leading to the absence of an age statement on the label. Maker's Mark Cask Strength takes this commitment to the next level, presenting the bourbon in its unfiltered and uncut form, delivering an intense, front-row experience for enthusiasts seeking the pure, undiluted essence of this renowned spirit.

Denning's Point Distillery Beacon Bourbon, Cask Strength

A distinctive offering in the realm of straight bourbon whiskey, this special release stands as a testament to complexity and nuance. Unveiling its richness at cask strength and drawn from a single barrel, this show-stopping bourbon exhibits an exceptional character with a mouth-watering array of flavors. The experience begins with the enticing notes of vanilla, butterscotch, rye, and oaky spice, creating a captivating introduction. The palate is treated to a lingering symphony of maple, dark fruit, and cinnamon, weaving together a harmonious tapestry of tastes. With an impressive Alcohol By Volume (ABV) of 57.0%, this cask strength, single barrel bourbon promises a bold and unforgettable sipping experience.

Black Button Distilling Cask Strength Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Presenting our timeless Four Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey blend, now bottled at its undiluted, straight-from-the-barrel strength, delivering an entirely unique flavor experience. With a nose that reveals subtle hints of citrus and vanilla, the palate unfolds with a smooth butterscotch richness, concluding with a touch of woody spice in the finish. Even at cask strength, this bourbon maintains its reputation as an easy-drinking spirit, staying true to the distinctive characteristics that define Black Button Bourbon. With an Alcohol By Volume (ABV) of 55.1%, this exceptional whiskey is both distilled and bottled by Black Button Distilling in Rochester, NY.

Chattanooga Whiskey Cask 111 Straight Bourbon

Chattanooga Whiskey Cask 111 Straight Bourbon embodies the spirit of Tennessee's distilling renaissance, breaking a century-long dry spell in Chattanooga. Pioneered by Tim Piersant and Joe Ledbetter, the distillery, legalized in 2015 after years of legislative efforts, brought forth its inaugural bottles in 2012. Distilled with a mash bill featuring 51% yellow dent corn and a blend of malted rye, caramel malted barley, and honey malted barley, this bourbon shares its roots with the acclaimed Chattanooga Whiskey 91. What sets Cask 111 apart is its near-cask strength of 55.5% ABV, contributing a delightful peanut candy note that enriches the overall flavor profile. Despite its relative newcomer status, this expression has garnered well-deserved recognition, clinching multiple Gold Medals, including prestigious Double Gold honors.

Angel's Envy Cask Strength Bourbon 2019 Release

Angel’s Envy Bourbons and Ryes, crafted by Louisville Distilling Co., represent the pinnacle of Master Distiller Lincoln Henderson's legacy. Universally acclaimed, their limited releases include a Port Finished Bourbon, a Rum-cask Finished Rye, and the esteemed Cask Strength Port Finished Bourbon. Anticipated annually by Bourbon enthusiasts, the Cask Strength edition, like the 2019 release, is a rare gem. Recognized as the "Best Spirit in the World" in 2015, it upholds the brand's stellar reputation. This particular expression, boasting a robust 61.2% ABV, is a spiritual journey for the senses, as each sip reflects the divine touch of port wine barrel finishing. With limited availability, this Angel's Envy offering is a must-have, embodying the artistry and excellence of craft distilling.

Brother's Bond Original Cask Strength Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Ian Somerhalder and Paul Wesley, renowned for their roles as the Salvatore Brothers on The Vampire Diaries, extended their real-life friendship beyond the screen to create Brother's Bond Bourbon. The Brother's Bond Original Cask Strength Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a testament to their collaboration, featuring a meticulous selection of 70 exceptional barrels. Crafted from a mash bill of 65% corn, 22% rye, with wheat and barley rounding out the mix, this high-rye Bourbon matures for a minimum of 4 years in virgin American oak barrels. The resulting palate is a harmonious blend of dried fruits, caramel, vanilla, and honey, showcasing the duo's commitment to crafting a bold and sophisticated Bourbon that celebrates brotherhood and exceptional spirits.

Broken Barrel Cask Strength Bourbon Whiskey

Seth Benhaim, the mastermind behind Infuse Spirits, embarked on his spirited journey at the young age of twenty-five, infusing Vodkas and Bitters in his garage. Infuse Spirits is known for its innovative approach, incorporating natural spices, fruits, and unique wood types into their creations. The Broken Barrels Cask Strength Bourbon Whiskey is a prime example, boasting a mash bill of 70% corn, 21% rye, and 9% malted barley. After aging for a year in new White oak, it undergoes a distinctive infusion process with a varied oak bill, including French oak, ex-Bourbon, and Sherry staves. This cask strength dram at 58% ABV delivers a full-volume experience, showcasing complexity and layered profiles in every sip. Cheers to Seth's ingenuity and the art of innovative whiskey-making.

Taconic Cask Strength Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Nestled in the heart of the Hudson Valley, Taconic Distillery found its roots on the historic Laured Beef Farms in 2010. The Coughlin family's commitment to preserving the rich Bourbon Whiskey tradition aligns with the area's culinary and historical significance. Embracing a non-chill filtered and unadulterated approach, Taconic produces their spirits below 160 proof, aging them in charred new oak barrels. The Taconic Cask Strength Straight Bourbon Whiskey stands out as a testament to their craft, initially aged in American oak barrels and finished in premium Mizunara casks. With notes of sweet vanilla, caramel, and baking spices, this bourbon offers a sublime and versatile addition to any home bar, suitable for sipping neat, on the rocks, or in your favorite cocktail. Cheers to the spirit of Taconic and the enduring legacy of Bourbon.

Garrison Brothers Single Barrel Cask Strength Texas Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Embarking on a journey into the world of Bourbon is always an exciting endeavor, and Garrison Brothers Single Barrel Cask Strength Texas Straight Bourbon Whiskey promises a thrilling and flavorful experience. This distinct bourbon, crafted with care by Garrison Brothers in the United States, stands out with its unique flavor profile. Far from ordinary, it captures the essence of true taste, making it a delight for both seasoned Spirits connoisseurs and those new to the adventure. With careful distillation and a bottling strength of 47.0, this well-rounded Bourbon invites enthusiasts to savor and enjoy the richness of its character. Cheers to the exploration of new and exceptional spirits!

Barrell Armida Cask Strength Bourbon Whiskey

The mystery of the extra "L" in Barrell Craft Spirits may remain unsolved, but what is crystal clear is their dedication to preserving unique orphan casks of American Whiskey. Since its founding in 2014 by Joe Beatrice, Barrell Craft Spirits has been on a mission to unearth extraordinary casks of premium Bourbon and Rye, bottling them at full strength in distinct, ever-changing batches. With each release being a surprise, whether it's Tennessee-style Whiskeys, Kentucky Bourbon, or innovative finished wood expressions, Barrell Craft Spirits offers the best odd lots that might otherwise be overlooked. An exemplary creation from their repertoire is the Barrell Armida Bourbon Whiskey, a blend of three Straight Bourbons finished in Pear Brandy, Jamaican Rum, and Sicilian Amaro casks. Named after Joe's mother, this bourbon presents a journey for the palate with ripe, floral pear notes, spice, and arid citrus—a complex yet satisfying experience awarded 94 points at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge in 2020 and a Gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2019.

Filmland Moonlight Mayhem Extended Cut Cask Strength Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Troy Bolotnick's creative prowess and love for sci-fi converged to give birth to Filmland Spirits in 2020, an unconventional distillery that crafts its spirits with a cinematic touch. With a unique approach, each spirit begins as a story, envisioned like a movie script—complete with heroes, villains, plot, and setting. Only then do they consider the ingredients and the team required to bring this liquid narrative to life. Distilled and blended with precision, these spirits, adorned with original B-movie poster labels in pulp-style art, are unleashed to a waiting audience of eager drinkers. A prime example of their narrative-inspired creations is Filmlands Moonlight Mayhem Extended Cut Cask Strength Straight Bourbon Whiskey. This bourbon, as sweet and robust as the destined love that saves a planet from a werewolf invasion, is crafted from 75% corn, 21% rye, and 4% malted barley. Bottled at a formidable, uncut ABV of 57.5%, this spirit is not just a drink—it's a transformational experience, much like the tale of Tommy and Sylvane, where love conquers all in a world threatened by carnivorous creatures.

Rod & Hammer's SLO Stills Cask Bourbon Whiskey

Rodney "Rod" Cegleski, a California surfer, and Australian Jackaroo Hamlisch "Hammer" Marshall, met in 2012 and began experimenting with brewing and distilling at the SLO Brew brewery in San Luis Obispo. Their passion for distilling turned into a business, leading to the official opening of Rod & Hammer Slo Stills in 2019. The Slo Stills Cask Bourbon Whiskey, crafted by Rod & Hammer's, boasts a mash bill of 55% corn, 35% rye, and 10% malted barley. Aged for two years in new darkly-charred oak casks, this bourbon is presented at its full cask strength of 56% ABV, ensuring a premium and robust flavor profile, uncut and without chill-filtration.

Iron Smoke Casket Strength

Iron Smoke Distillery, situated in Upstate New York, embraces the local apple abundance in its craft distilling endeavors. Among their array of products, including Iron Smoke Straight Bourbon Whiskey and Rattlesnake Rosie's flavored expressions, the limited edition Iron Smoke CASKet Strength stands out. Recognizing the acclaim received by their Straight Bourbon, which secured Double Gold at the North American Bourbon & Whiskey Competition and a 95.5 rating in Jim Murray’s Whiskey Bible, Iron Smoke decided to elevate the experience further. This powerhouse release, bottled at 60% ABV (120 proof), intensifies the flavors, showcasing the distillery's commitment to pushing the boundaries of excellence.

Devils River Barrel Strength Texas Bourbon Whiskey

Devil’s River Whiskey, making its mark in the Spirits scene since 2017, achieved acclaim with its initial 90-proof Bourbon release. President and co-founder Mike Cameron has propelled this Texas-based distillery toward national prominence, culminating in the opening of their San Antonio distillery in Q4 of 2019. Their Devil’s River Texas Bourbon, bottled at 45% ABV, became a standout hit. Building on this success, Devils River Barrel Strength Texas Bourbon Whiskey offers the same award-winning Bourbon experience, maintaining the original mash bill of 75% corn, 21% rye, and 4% barley. The distinguishing factor is the elevated bottling strength at nearly full cask strength — an impressive 58.5% ABV, inviting enthusiasts to savor a bolder expression of the Devil’s River legacy.