7 Bourbons From Beginner to Advanced

7 Bourbons From Beginner to Advanced

Bourbon holds a special place in my heart among all styles of whiskey. It was the first type that truly captivated me during my early days of tasting and learning about whiskey's history. With its wide range of styles influenced by factors like mash bill and bottling strength, bourbon can feel daunting for beginners. To help newcomers navigate this diverse category, here's a guide from beginner to advanced: Start with approachable bourbons like Buffalo Trace and Maker's Mark, then move to more complex options such as Elijah Craig Small Batch and Knob Creek. For those ready for an advanced exploration, bold and high-proof bourbons like Booker's and Blanton's offer intense flavors and unique characteristics. Each bourbon presents a distinct journey through its aging and production, making it a rewarding spirit to explore whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails.

Very Old Barton 100 Proof

Very Old Barton is a Kentucky straight Bourbon that has been matured for an average of four to six years in charred, American oak casks before being bottled at 100 proof. As a result, the whiskey has a rich amber color along with an aroma of vanilla beans and chewy leather. Very Old Barton is owned by the New Orleans-based Sazerac Company. Buy it now!

Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon Whiskey

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. Buy it now for $24.99.

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!

Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon

The Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon is a revered choice among bourbon enthusiasts globally, stands out for its unique flavor, smooth finish, and elegant design. Crafted with a mash bill of corn, rye, and malted barley, aged for a minimum of six years, it offers a complex palate of vanilla, caramel, and toasted oak. Best enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in classic cocktails, this Kentucky-distilled whiskey guarantees a unique and luxurious drinking experience. Hand-selected grains contribute to its exceptional smoothness, with caramel and toffee sweetness on the palate balanced by a lingering spice and subtle notes of vanilla and oak. Each bottle undergoes meticulous handcrafted processes, from barrel selection by the master distiller to filling, labeling, and sealing, making it a true work of art in every sip. Buy it now on sale for $179.99.

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. Buy it now!

Way Down the Mountain 25 Year Old Bourbon

An intriguing story surrounds a small parcel of bourbon distilled in 1996 and purchased by Hunter Laing, a Scottish independent bottler. This bourbon, aged mostly in Scotland, comes from ten of the twenty original casks and is now a 25-year-old small batch bourbon. Although the distillery remains undisclosed, many speculate it to be Heaven Hill. This bourbon, with its soft and layered profile, features pronounced cherry notes, rich and delicate flavors, soft spices, and a hint of mint, thanks to virgin oak maturation in Scottish weather. Currently available only in the UK, getting a bottle is a rare and fortunate opportunity. Buy it now!

William Larue Weller BTAC (Buffalo Trace Antique Release)

This particular bourbon holds a special place in any collection—People are willing to trade it for anything. The 2014 release, clocking in at a staggering 70.1% ABV, initially seemed like it might overwhelm me, but thankfully, it didn't deter my passion for whiskey. The allure of wheated bourbon, especially the Weller range, captivates with its sweet complexity and deep flavors. William Larue Weller, an annual gem from Buffalo Trace Distillery, is notoriously elusive, often selling out in a flash. Fortunately, whiskey bars offer a chance to savor its cherry, vanilla, caramel, sweet oak, toffee, and spicy maple complexity, with hints of red vermouth and maraschino that make each sip unforgettable. Buy it now!