Inside a 400-Bottle Collection: The Top 5

Inside a 400-Bottle Collection: The Top 5

Scott Bernstein, a 54-year-old steel industry professional from outside Detroit, began his whiskey journey inspired by a scene in The West Wing featuring Johnnie Walker Blue. Since that moment, he has built an impressive collection of over 400 bottles, spanning Irish, American, Scotch, and Japanese whiskeys, along with some tequila. His passion for collecting, which started with baseball cards and autographs in his youth, grew significantly after his first bourbon trail trip in Kentucky in 2016. Bernstein now hosts "nubbin’ parties" to finish off nearly-empty bottles with friends and cherishes the thrill of hunting rare whiskeys. Below are his five favorite whiskeys from his extensive collection, each with a unique story and flavor profile.

Jameson Black Barrel Irish Whiskey

Jameson Black Barrel holds a special place in Bernstein’s collection as a cornerstone of his whiskey journey. Known for its smooth and approachable character, this Irish whiskey is finished in charred barrels, adding depth with notes of toffee and butterscotch. Bernstein describes it as his "easy drinking" go-to, a reliable choice that he returns to time and again for its sweetness and ease.

Old Pogue Master’s Select Bourbon

Old Pogue Master’s Select is a sentimental favorite for Bernstein, tied to his first Kentucky bourbon trail visit. Discovered at the micro distillery in Maysville, this ultra-small batch 9-year-old bourbon is a rare find due to its limited distribution. Bernstein’s annual tradition of visiting the distillery to secure a case reflects his love for collecting elusive whiskeys, making this bourbon a symbol of his passion.

Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye

The Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye, a 13-year-old expression, is a crown jewel in Bernstein’s collection. Renowned for its rarity and quality, this rye is surprisingly approachable, with a smooth and flavorful profile that Bernstein uses to convert rye skeptics. Though often overshadowed by Van Winkle’s bourbons, this rye stands out for its drinkability and prestige among whiskey enthusiasts.

Weller 12 Wheated Bourbon

Weller 12, part of Buffalo Trace’s wheated bourbon line, is celebrated for sharing the same high-wheat mash bill as Pappy Van Winkle bourbons. Bernstein values its approachability and rich flavor, as well as its historical connection to the Van Winkle family, which adds sentimental appeal. He considers it a standout choice, famously declaring, “If it’s good enough for Julian Van Winkle, it’s good enough for me.”

Peerless Absinthe Barrel Finished Rye

Peerless Absinthe Barrel Finished Rye, produced by the Louisville-based Peerless distillery, is a unique and bold addition to Bernstein’s favorites. Despite his usual aversion to licorice and absinthe flavors, he was captivated by this rye’s distinctive finish, which imparts subtle licorice notes. Its unforgettable taste led Bernstein and a friend to finish an entire bottle over a single weekend, marking it as a standout for its innovative flavor profile.