Hidden Gem Bourbons Worth Adding to Your Shelf

7 Overlooked Bourbons You Should Pick Up Now

Some bourbons quietly shine amidst the clamor of popular brands, overlooked by many enthusiasts who gravitate towards more prominent labels. These hidden gems often offer exceptional quality and character, yet remain undiscovered by the masses. With subtle marketing and less flashy packaging, these bourbons may not command attention on store shelves, but they hold their own in terms of taste and craftsmanship. Savvy whiskey lovers know that exploring beyond the well-trodden path can unearth treasures that rival even the most celebrated brands. Shop bourbons!

Jim Beam Bonded Bourbon Whiskey

In 2015, Jim Beam Bonded made a significant splash as one of the first new bottled-in-bond bourbons to hit the market in decades. Responding to the requests of bartenders aiming to faithfully recreate classic cocktails, the Noe family revived this original bonded recipe. Since then, Bonded has largely remained a hidden gem behind the bar. However, once discovered, its appeal is undeniable. Aged for at least four years and bottled at 100 proof, it boasts a livelier profile compared to its black and white Beam counterparts, all at an attractive price point. Buy it now!

Maker’s Mark Cask Strength

Maker’s Mark is undeniably iconic, a staple in the world of bourbon that has captured the hearts of countless enthusiasts. However, its Cask Strength variation offers a unique twist. Unlike its familiar counterpart, Cask Strength is uncut and non-chill filtered, presenting a bolder, more potent, and flavorful expression straight from the barrel. It's a departure from the classic, inviting aficionados to explore a richer, more authentic experience. So, while the wax seal may be familiar, the juice inside is a whole new world waiting to be discovered. 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!

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!

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!

Evan Single Barrel

Evan Williams Single Barrel has remained an underrated gem since its inception in 1983, offering a vintage-dated selection of the finest barrels from the warehouses. Master distillers Craig Beam and his late father, Parker, meticulously handpick these barrels until only the best remains. Despite being bottled at a lower proof, perhaps deterring some, its quality shines through, especially when enjoyed neat. With recent releases like the 2009 vintage, it's evident that Evan Williams Single Barrel continues to uphold its legacy, a testament to Parker's enduring pride. 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!