25 Mid-level Bourbons To Get Your Father For Father’s Day 2024

25 Mid-level Bourbons To Get Your Father For Father’s Day 2024

Celebrate Father’s Day 2024 by introducing your dad to a curated selection of 25 mid-level bourbons. These choices strike a balance between quality and affordability, offering nuanced flavors and a richer complexity than entry-level options. Each bottle showcases the craftsmanship and tradition of bourbon-making, with tasting notes that might include hints of caramel, vanilla, oak, and spice. Perfect for dads who have developed a taste for bourbon and are ready to explore more sophisticated expressions, these mid-level bourbons promise to elevate his sipping experience and provide a delightful journey through the diverse world of this beloved spirit. Shop bourbons now!

Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey stands as a revered choice among whiskey enthusiasts, boasting over two centuries of expert craftsmanship. Its meticulous blend of corn, rye, and barley malt undergoes careful fermentation and distillation before being aged in charred oak barrels for a minimum of eight years. This aging process imparts rich, smoky undertones and subtle notes of vanilla, caramel, and toffee, creating a complex flavor profile that can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in classic cocktails. With its timeless appeal and exceptional quality, Buffalo Trace Bourbon is sure to elevate any drinking experience. Buy it now!

Willett Pot Still Reserve Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Willett Pot Still Reserve continues the family legacy with its exceptional single-barrel Kentucky straight bourbon. Aged for eight to ten years, it received the Gold Medal for taste and the Double Gold Medal for design at the 2008 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. The distinctive bottle shape mirrors the traditional pot still used by the Willett Distilling Company for generations. Soft and refined on the nose, this bourbon offers delicate hints of vanilla, coconut, and cinnamon. Buy it now!

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. Buy it now!

Peerless Double Oak Bourbon Whiskey

Peerless Double Oak Bourbon Whiskey offers a unique and complex flavor profile achieved through a double barrel aging process. By exposing the bourbon to two separate casks, it extracts enhanced notes of grain, fruit, and herbs, resulting in a rich and balanced whiskey. Each barrel is carefully selected by our tasting team to ensure supreme quality and uphold the Peerless legacy, making it a standout choice for whiskey enthusiasts seeking depth and character in every sip. Buy it now!

Penelope Bourbon Four Grain

Named after the founders' newborn daughter, Penelope Bourbon is an award-winning company dedicated to crafting a series of approachable four-grain expressions that cater to both bourbon connoisseurs and novices. This Four Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey blends three bourbon mash bills sourced from MGP, incorporating corn, wheat, rye, and malt. Aged for 2-3 years and non-chill-filtered, the bourbon showcases a unique barrel char with #4 staves and #2 heads, boasting a proof of 80. Perfect for both new bourbon enthusiasts and seasoned whiskey lovers seeking their ideal "Sessions" of Bourbon, Penelope exemplifies a commitment to quality and palate satisfaction. Buy now starting at $46.00.

Baker’s

Baker’s, often overshadowed by its Beam premium siblings Booker’s and Basil Hayden, tends to fly under the radar — and whiskey enthusiasts prefer it that way. Unlike its higher-proof relatives, Baker’s is barreled at a lower proof, resulting in a sweet bourbon with just the right alcohol content to offset its sweetness. While its packaging may be the simplest of the Beam trio, its taste and value make it stand out as the top choice, all for a reasonable price of $50. Buy it now!

Bowman Brothers

Bowman Distillery stands out as the sole non-Kentucky distillery on this esteemed list, perhaps contributing to its under-the-radar status among whiskey aficionados. Despite Virginia's historical ties to Kentucky and its lesser-known whiskey-making reputation, A. Smith Bowman Distillery consistently earns recognition for its exceptional products. Their small batch offering, characterized by its easy-drinking nature and high-rye profile, has garnered numerous accolades, all while maintaining an unexpectedly affordable price point for the quality it delivers. Buy it now!

Hand Barrel Single Barrel Select Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Standing on the edge of a sprawling 100-acre farm site in Bardstown, Kentucky, the founders of Bardstown Bourbon Company embraced a "go big or go home" mentality, and it paid off. Established in 2013 and reaching full production in 2015, their facility swiftly became one of the world's largest and most innovative distilleries, producing an impressive 7 million gallons of Spirit and 110,000 barrels annually. Serving as the central production hub for numerous renowned brands such as Jefferson’s, High West, and James E. Pepper, Bardstown Bourbon Company is a powerhouse in the whiskey industry. Among their notable projects is Hand Barrel, a small-batch barrel-to-bottle endeavor that prioritizes protecting the golden juice from UV light harm. Their Single Barrel Select Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, crafted from a mash bill of 64% corn, 24% rye, and 12% malted barley, represents the pinnacle of this dedication. Bottled at 52.5% ABV and non-chill filtered, it promises a unique sipping experience, unveiling notes of oaky caramel, cinnamon spice, and winter clove. Buy it now for $77.99!

Tincup Fourteener 14 Year Bourbon Whiskey

Exploring new additions to your Bourbon collection is a thrilling and delicious endeavor, and Tincup Fourteener 14 Year Bourbon Whiskey promises a delightful experience. Admired for its distinct flavor profile, this Bourbon stands out from the crowd, offering a true taste adventure for both connoisseurs and novices alike. Crafted with care by MGP Indiana in the United States and bottled at 42.0, this well-rounded spirit invites enthusiasts to savor its nuanced complexities. Beyond the ordinary, Tincup Fourteener 14 Year Bourbon Whiskey is an invitation to venture into new and exciting flavors, showcasing the diversity available in the world of spirits. Buy it now for $67.99!

Basil Hayden 10 Year Old

The flagship bottle of Basil Hayden Kentucky Straight Bourbon is an excellent, affordable whiskey, but the 10-year expression is a step above. Smooth, elegant, and approachable, it stands out even after considering robust bourbons, making it an excellent choice for those new to whiskey. The palate offers a subtle rye warmth, with sweet notes of caramel and honey shining brightest, complemented by earthy flavors like toasted notes and light smoke for added complexity. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned connoisseur, this whiskey is sure to be loved by anyone. Buy it now!

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!

Hirsch The Horizon Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Hotaling & Co., bearing the name of a 19th-century San Francisco Spirits pioneer, traces its roots back to the distilling arm of Anchor Steam Brewery. Over time, a series of acquisitions, mergers, and rebranding efforts have shaped it into the diverse distiller and importer it is today, offering more than three dozen fine adult beverages from its base in the City by the Bay. Among its reintroduced and revitalized brands is Hirsch "The Horizon," crafted from two MGP Spirits. A majority, 94%, is composed of a high-corn Spirit (75% corn, 21% Rye, and 4% malted barley) aged over five years. The remaining 6% is a high-rye mash (60% corn, 38% rye, and 4% malted barley) aged more than six years. This unique blend is bottled at a perfect 46% ABV, housed in a flask-shaped bottle adorned with a wood stopper, showcasing the evolution and craftsmanship of Hotaling & Co. Buy it now for $31.99!

Widow Jane 10 Year Old Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Widow Jane, a hyper-small-batch Brooklyn-based distillery, is dedicated to reviving the art of blending by marrying the finest and rarest bourbons from Kentucky, Tennessee, and Indiana in exclusive five-barrel batches. Utilizing non-chill filtered bourbons, they proof their spirits with mineral water from New York's legendary Rosendale Mines, the same place that inspired their name. The Widow Jane 10 Year Bourbon is an uncompromising and bold expression with deep cherry notes and a charred oak finish, embodying the distinctive New York style. Noteworthy accolades include being named World's Best Small Batch Bourbon at the 2022 World Whiskies Awards and receiving a Double Gold Medal at the 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Buy it now!

Knob Creek 12

Knob Creek, a standout within the Jim Beam Small Batch Collection, has garnered praise for its excellent nine-year-old bourbon. However, the limited-edition 12-year-old variant, introduced a few years ago, elevates the experience even further. Utilizing the same mashbill and maintaining a robust 100 proof, this expression boasts the familiar rich and complex flavor profile characterized by vanilla, caramel, and spicy notes. The additional three years of barrel aging contribute a heightened level of complexity, placing the 12-year-old Knob Creek in a coveted middle ground that distinguishes it as one of the finest bourbons available. Buy it now!

Garrison Brothers Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey

Garrison Brothers Distillery holds the distinction of being Texas' inaugural legal whiskey distillery. Their Small Batch Texas Straight Bourbon Whiskey, bottled at 94 proof, boasts a sumptuous blend of top-tier ingredients. Crafted from a sweet mash bill, this bourbon undergoes a heat-intensive maturation process under the blazing Texas sun, extracting maximum flavor from new American white oak barrels. The result is a bourbon with a deep, rich, and full-bodied character that sets it apart. Whether savored neat to appreciate its bold complexity or incorporated into a meticulously crafted cocktail, Garrison Brothers Small Batch stands as a testament to Texas whiskey craftsmanship. Buy it now for $84.99!

Wild Turkey Rare Breed

Wild Turkey 101 is undeniably among the finest budget-friendly bourbons available. However, for those willing to invest a bit more, exploring Rare Breed, the exceptional cask-strength variant from this esteemed Kentucky distillery, is highly recommended. A masterful blend of six, eight, and 12-year-old bourbons, this offering stands out as one of the top choices under the $100 mark. Just under 113 proof, it boasts formidable strength without overpowering with alcohol, gradually unveiling a spectrum of intricate flavors layer by layer. Buy it now!

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!

Noah's Mill Small Batch Bourbon

Noah's Mill, crafted by the Willet Distillery, stands as a remarkable Bourbon, a homage to Kentucky's post-Revolutionary War pioneers who distilled excess corn into precious spirits. This small-batch, rare gem marries different Bourbons, creating a harmonious blend with unmatched depth and complexity. Aged for two decades in solitude, it emerges bottled at 114 proof in limited batches, defying expectations with its smoothness and lack of afterbite. This exceptional spirit, boasting spicy flavors and sweet, creamy aromas, earned the Double Gold Medal at the 2012 San Francisco World Spirits Competition and a notable 93 points from Jim Murray. Truly, it's a testament to high-class sorcery. Buy it now!

Longbranch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Crafted with a touch of Texan flair, Kentexas brings you Longbranch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, co-created by the Bourbon legend Eddie Russell of Wild Turkey. This expression serves as a welcoming bridge between Kentucky and Texas, symbolized by an extending hand. The unique twist lies in the use of Mesquite, a grilling wood native to Texas, which imparts a distinct aroma to the Bourbon. Developed by Master distillers Jimmy and Eddie Russell, Longbranch is an 8 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon refined with American Oak and mesquite charcoals. The result is an exceptional whiskey with deep complexity, offering flavors of caramel, pear, and subtle hints of smoke, sweetness, and spice. Whether sipped neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, Longbranch promises a rare and special potion that should not be missed. Buy it now for $41.99!

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!

Henry McKenna Bottled-in-Bond Single Barrel Bourbon

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!

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.

Noble Oak Double Oak Bourbon Whiskey

Nestled in Ohio's unassuming town of Newtown, a hidden gem named Noble Oak has emerged, transforming the town's reputation with its exceptional double-gold double-oak Bourbon. This quality crafted American Whiskey brand not only delivers outstanding spirits but also boasts a philanthropic heart—every bottle sold contributes to tree planting initiatives. What sets Noble Oak apart is its meticulous maturation process. Spending a minimum of twelve months in charred new American white oak barrels imparts a sweet vanilla character. Employing time-honored methods, the whiskey achieves a unique body, deep color, and richness of flavor. To add an extra layer of distinction, Spanish Sherry oak staves are introduced, resulting in a noble Bourbon that experts praise for its superb, aromatic, and pleasing qualities. However, it goes beyond the expected, offering an exciting and slightly exotic profile that truly sets it apart. Buy it now for $39.99!

Eagle Rare 10 Year Old

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!

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. Buy it now!