Don't Sleep On These Lesser Known Whiskeys
Don't Sleep On These Lesser Known Whiskeys
While mainstream brands often dominate the liquor shelves, there exists a world of lesser-known whiskeys waiting to be discovered. These unique expressions offer distinct flavors and stories, crafted by passionate distillers. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, exploring these hidden gems can lead to delightful surprises and broaden your whiskey horizon.
J. Rieger Straight Bourbon Whiskey
J. Rieger Straight Bourbon Whiskey is aged a minimum of four years in their Kansas City rickhouse and offers a layered flavor profile: Aromas of candied citrus and baked bread. Tasting notes of orange marmalade, cracked pepper, and toasted coconut. A long finish with hints of mild tobacco and toffee-like sweetness. Buy it now!
Nashville Barrel Company Single Barrel Bourbon
Nashville Barrel Company has been impressing since 2018 with their model of sourcing whiskey to bring exceptional single barrels to market. This particular bottle, selected by founders Mike Hinds and James Davenport, exemplifies their success. It’s a cask-strength bourbon from Kentucky, aged in Tennessee, and released after 7 years of maturation. Buy it now!
Milam & Greene Triple Cask Straight Bourbon Whiskey
The Milam & Greene Triple Cask is a meticulously crafted bourbon that embodies a thoughtful blend of three distinct whiskies. The artful composition starts with a foundation of 2 to 3-year-old premium Texas bourbon, introducing a lively spice. This is complemented by the inclusion of 3 to 4-year-old Tennessee whiskey, contributing delightful notes of vanilla and fruits. The blend is elevated further with the addition of 10 to 11-year-old Tennessee whiskey, imparting a robust structure and tannins. The result is a deep gold-hued bourbon with a refined and elegant nose, featuring hints of vanilla, florals, and spice. On the palate, the spirit exhibits a creamy and soft texture, surprising in its smoothness at 94 proof. The experience concludes with a medium warm finish, showcasing the bourbon's intricate interplay of structure and tannins. With its rich complexity and well-balanced profile, Milam & Greene Triple Cask offers a distinctive and enjoyable drinking experience at 94 proof. Buy it now for $46.99.
Kings County Peated Bourbon
Kings County Distillery, honored as the Distillery of the Year by the American Distilling Institute, holds a distinctive place in the world of spirits. Pioneering the revival of distillation in New York since 2010, they stand as the state's first distillery post-Prohibition. Their commitment to passion, innovation, and craft is not just a slogan but a way of life, evident in every facet of their operation. The emphasis on quality and simplicity is evident in their uniquely packaged Bourbons, Whiskies, and Moonshine, housed in medicinal-style flasks adorned with typewriter-written labels, emphasizing that it's the flavor inside that matters most. Among their remarkable offerings, the King's County Peated Bourbon is a standout. A Bourbon at its core, it takes a bold twist with barley from Scotland malted and dried over peat smoke, reminiscent of traditional Islay practices. The result is an unparalleled flavor profile, marrying the smokiness of a Single Malt with the youthful vibrancy of Bourbon—a testament to Kings County's innovative approach to crafting distinctive spirits. Buy it now!
Stranahan's Sherry Cask Finished Colorado Whiskey
Colorado's Stranahan's has been a pioneer in American single malt whiskey, and their sherry cask-finished expression shows the kind of craftsmanship that's made them a favorite among bartenders who know their stuff. They take their Rocky Mountain single malt and give it extra time in sherry barrels, which adds incredible richness and complexity to an already solid base spirit. The sherry influence brings out flavors of dried cherries, toffee, and baking spices, while the high altitude aging in Colorado gives it a unique character you won't find anywhere else. Bartenders love recommending this to scotch drinkers who are curious about American whiskey, since the sherry finish creates a bridge between the two styles. At around 90 proof it's approachable but still has enough backbone to be interesting, and the finish is long and warming with just a touch of oakiness. This is a craft distillery that's been doing things right for years, and this sherry cask version proves they're not just resting on their reputation – they're continuing to experiment and put out quality stuff that stands up to anything the big brands are doing. Buy it now!
Frey Ranch Farm Strength Uncut Bourbon Whiskey
Nestled in Fallon, Nevada, the Frey Ranch stands as a Whiskey haven, boasting a remarkable 165-year history and led by Co-Founder Colby Frey and Master Distiller Russell Wedlake. Operating like the Disneyland of distilleries, Frey Ranch embraces an authentic 'Ground-to-Glass' process, where all grains are cultivated on-site for the ultimate farm-to-table experience in your Whiskey glass. With five generations of farming expertise, they seamlessly blend tradition with modern innovation, creating a sustainable and delectable Whiskey. The signature Frey Ranch Farm Strength Uncut Bourbon Whiskey epitomizes this ethos – unfiltered, uncut, and akin to sipping straight from the barrel. Each batch undergoes a cask-strength tasting to ensure it delivers the desired punch. Defined by its raw, bold, and straight-up character, the "Farm Strength" embodies the Frey family's preference. For an authentic flavor face-off, consider trying it alongside their flagship 90 proof. From grain to glass, this farm-fresh flavor journey at Frey Ranch is a must-experience. Buy it now!
Wilderness Trail Wheated Bourbon
This craft gem from Kentucky's Wilderness Trail uses a wheated recipe and slow aging to bring out creamy, decadent caramel notes that feel almost dessert-like. Expect lush butter caramel blended with corn sweetness and subtle nutty undertones, all smoothed out without any harsh bite. Bottled at higher proof but drinks easy, it's the kinda pour that shines when you're kicking back, highlighting how smaller distilleries can nail that indulgent caramel profile with real finesse. Buy it now!
Westland Distillery Sherry Wood American Single Malt
Seattle's Westland Distillery is doing something special with American single malt, and their sherry cask-finished expression proves that the Pacific Northwest knows a thing or two about whiskey. This craft operation uses locally grown barley and finishes their spirit in Spanish sherry casks, which gives it this rich, almost wine-like quality that's different from anything coming out of Kentucky or Tennessee. The sherry influence brings dried fruit flavors like raisins and figs, along with nuts and dark chocolate notes that make it feel luxurious. Bartenders who carry it say customers are often surprised by how much depth a relatively young American whiskey can have when the distiller really knows what they're doing with cask finishing. There's a slight salinity to it that some people pick up on, probably from the coastal climate where it's aged. It's not cheap, but you're supporting a craft distillery that's genuinely pushing boundaries and creating regional character in American whiskey. This is perfect for those evenings when you want something contemplative that rewards slow sipping. Buy it now!
Balcones Lineage American Single Malt
Lineage is meticulously crafted to harmonize the distinct methodologies of malted barley and maturation inherent in both the Scottish Single Malt Tradition and the innovative landscape of American Whisky. This unique spirit is distilled from a blend of Scottish Golden Promise and malted barley grown in Texas, subsequently undergoing aging in both new and virgin oak casks. In doing so, Lineage not only pays homage to traditional methods but also propels the category forward by embracing and celebrating American provenance. With an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 47.0%, Lineage stands as a testament to the fusion of time-honored practices and a forward-looking approach, creating a whiskey that bridges the gap between two rich traditions. Buy now for $44.71.
Copperworks American Single Malt Whiskey
Crafted from 100% malted barley, aged for 30 months in brand-new American oak barrels, and thrice distilled. subtle scents of black tea and honey. mouthfeel that is smooth. Toffee and burnt orange flavors give way to leather and black pepper. @ 104 proof in bottles. It's delicious to drink neat. Buy it now!
Pikesville Straight Rye Whiskey
Crafted by Denny Potter, Co-Master Distiller at Heaven Hills, Pikesville Straight Rye Whiskey boasts a blend of rye, corn, and barley, capturing the spicy essence of traditional Maryland rye whiskies. Potter's meticulous selection of barrels aged at least six years in high storage and bottling at an optimal proof ensures a balanced expression, allowing the barrel's richness to harmonize with the spicy grains. This results in a whiskey with a pale copper hue, emanating aromas of dark cocoa and charred oak. On the palate, layers of honey, clover, and white chocolate unfold, leading to a finish highlighted by vanilla bean, butterscotch candy, maple syrup, and caramel. Honored with a Double Gold at the 2015 San Francisco World Spirits Competition and earning 95 points at the 2015 Ultimate Spirits Challenge, Pikesville Straight Rye Whiskey stands as a testament to exceptional craftsmanship. Experience this extraordinary whiskey today! Buy it now!
Ancient Age
Ancient Age is a beloved bourbon whiskey revered for its classic flavor profile and heritage dating back to the 1940s. Crafted in Frankfort, Kentucky, Ancient Age is known for its smoothness, offering a balanced combination of sweetness and spice with hints of caramel, oak, and a touch of vanilla. As one of the iconic brands in American whiskey, Ancient Age continues to captivate enthusiasts with its rich history, making it a staple in bars and homes alike for those seeking a timeless bourbon experience. Shop Ancient Age whiskey!
Yellowstone American Single Malt
Made entirely of malted barley and expertly matured in brand-new, charred American oak barrels, Yellowstone American single malt whiskey fills the palate with aromas of honey, dates, and spiced pear before finishing with a robust wood and cinnamon finish. Buy it now!
High West Bourbon
Blended by the craft wizards at High West in Utah, this one's around 35 bucks and mixes straight bourbons for a light, vanilla-forward taste with cedar and citrus hints. It's easy to drink and versatile, whether straight or in a mixer, without feelin' watered down. The mountain vibe adds a cool factor, and it's great for those who want somethin' different but familiar. Stock this for when you wanna switch things up without spendin' big – it's like a breath of fresh air in your glass. Buy it now!
Ben Holladay Bottled in Bond Soft Red Wheat Bourbon
Soft red wheat makes this one silky smooth, with floral and apple spice vibes. It’s like a chill day in the orchard—easygoing but packed with flavor. Buy it now!
Woodinville Straight Bourbon Whiskey
This is a clean, classic style bourbon that almost anyone can enjoy. Woodinville keeps things simple, and it shows in the taste. It’s smooth, slightly sweet, and easy to pour for company. If you’re recommending a craft whiskey to someone who usually drinks familiar brands, this one won’t scare them off. Buy it now!
Blue Note Juke Joint Bourbon
Crafted in Memphis with a nod to the blues, this unfiltered straight bourbon delivers a thick, viscous body full of sweet corn, vanilla, allspice, apricot, pear, and oaky warmth. Aged just right near the river, it builds gentle heat with fruity and spicy layers that linger, turnin' a frosty night into somethin' cozy and satisfying. Buy it now!
Bernheim Original Wheated American Whiskey
Born just outside Kippenheim, Germany, in 1848, Isaac Woolfe Bernheim arrived in the United States as a teenager with only $4. Originally planning to work in New York City, bankruptcy led him to become a traveling salesman on horseback, selling housewares in Pennsylvania. After his horse's demise, Isaac and his brother Bernard, a recent U.S. immigrant, moved to Kentucky, purchasing and renaming the Pleasure Ridge Park Distillery in 1896. During Prohibition, their distillery was one of the few permitted to operate for medicinal whiskey production. Bernheim Original Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey, a pioneering post-Prohibition spirit, features a unique mashbill predominantly composed of winter wheat, resulting in a soft, sweet flavor with intricate complexity. Distilled in Louisville, Kentucky, the mash, including corn and malted barley, matures for five years in Heaven Hill's Nelson County rickhouses. This exceptional whiskey has earned accolades such as the Pioneer Whiskey of the Year Award and a Double Gold Medal at the 2012 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, along with a "94 points" rating and "Exceptional" label from the Beverage Tasting Institute. Buy it now.
Chicken Cock Kentucky Straight Bourbon
This bourbon whiskey is more than just its catchy name; it's an authentic throwback brand known for its flavorful and nuanced profile. Distilled, aged, and bottled in Kentucky, it boasts notes of charred oak, raisins, vanilla beans, and toffee on the nose. The palate reveals flavors of oak, butterscotch candy, vanilla, light spices, and a sweet toffee finish. With an ABV of 90-proof, it delivers a pleasing, warming heat at the finish. Buy it now!
Old Tub Bonded Bourbon
Before the renowned Jim Beam Bourbon, the Beam family laid the foundation with Old Tub, an unfiltered bonded bourbon. This limited edition bottle serves as a heartfelt tribute to the groundbreaking whiskey that paved the way for the world's #1 bourbon. A nod to the rich heritage and craftsmanship of the Beams, this release allows enthusiasts to experience a taste of history and appreciate the roots of the iconic Jim Beam legacy. Buy it now!
Leopold Bros. Michigan Cherry Flavored Whiskey
Founded in 1999 by brothers Todd and Scott Leopold, Leopold Bros. has emerged as a notable distillery with a diverse range of award-winning spirits. Originally established in Michigan, the brothers later moved their operations back to their home state of Colorado. A distinctive aspect of Leopold Bros.' approach is their revival of pre-prohibition whiskey styles, where barrel aging involved infusing whiskey with fruit juice and spices. Among their offerings, Leopold Bros. Michigan Cherry Whiskey stands out. Crafted from a base of American whiskey, a blend of corn and rye aged in oak barrels, this expression takes a unique turn with the addition of tart Montmorency cherry juice from Michigan. The result is a vibrant, lightly sweet flavor reminiscent of a Manhattan cocktail, accompanied by a rich burgundy hue. Buy it now!
Koval Single Barrel Bourbon
The Koval Single Barrel Bourbon adheres to the mandatory mashbill requirement, with a minimum of 51% corn. However, it deviates from the conventional addition of rye or wheat by incorporating millet, a primary cereal from Asia and Africa. Millet, known for being a gluten-free ancient grain, shares a historical association with the spirits industry, particularly in Nepal, where it has been revered as a preferred libation for an extended period. Buy it now for $49.99.
Breckenridge Bourbon
Aged for two to three years, it is made from malted barley, green rye, and yellow corn. Despite its youth, this Award Winning Whiskey achieves a depth of taste with a blend of vanilla, caramel, and oak flavors that fade into a fruity, spicy finish. Buy it now!
Ironroot Republic Whiskey
For a genuine grain-to-glass experience, Ironroot Republic matures, ferments, distills, mashes, and bottles all of their spirits in Denison, Texas. They provide whiskey, bourbon, brandy, cognac, gin, vodka, and moonshine, but their premium whiskey is their most well-known product. Try their Apotheosis VI bourbon, which has a lovely depth of taste with notes of molasses, tea, dried apple, sticky tobacco, sour cherry, hazelnuts, and coffee. It is aged in three different types of sherry casks. Ironroot Republic Whiskey can be found in stores as well online at retailers such as Total Wine.
Laws Four Grain Straight Bourbon
Made from corn, wheat, barley, and rye—the four mother cereals of America. Due to their extreme difficulty in production, there aren't many four grains available on the market. The recently burned American white oak barrels provide a complex whiskey with aromas of caramel and vanilla. traditional flavor. Buy it now!
Chattanooga Whiskey 111
Tennessee's Chattanooga Whiskey is proving that you don't need to be in Kentucky to make world-class bourbon. Their cask strength 111 offering showcases their high-malt mashbill, which includes malted barley in a higher percentage than most bourbons use. This gives it an almost scotch-like character in terms of complexity, while still being unmistakably bourbon. At 111 proof, you get plenty of flavor without needing to add water, though a few drops can really open it up. These folks are innovating while respecting tradition, and the maltiness brings out notes of honey, graham cracker, and toasted nuts that you won't find in your typical bourbon. Buy it now!
Corsair Distillery
Corsair Distillery's origin story began with a serendipitous accident when childhood friends Andrew Webber and Derek Bell, Nashville natives, transitioned from brewing beer and wine to experimenting with a biodiesel plant using home-brewing equipment in Bell's garage. Facing unexpected challenges, they humorously turned to whiskey-making, eventually founding Corsair Distillery in 2010, Nashville's first post-prohibition distillery. Over the years, Corsair has amassed over 800 medals at national and international spirits competitions, including the prestigious American Whiskey Distillery of the Year at the 2017 Berlin International Spirits competition. Visitors can enjoy tours and tastings at both Nashville locations, sampling Corsair's whiskey, rye, and gin alongside local craft beers. The Clinton Street site offers freshly baked pizza and the chance to meet Copper Cat, the resident mouser, while the Merritt Avenue distillery features outdoor deck games for added enjoyment. Shop Corsair!
Boulder Bourbon Whiskey
Strong hints of warm baked spices, toffee, and cinnamon rolls. molasses, cloves, butterscotch, and sweet dried fruit after a lot of upfront alcohol. lengthy finish that ends with a licorice note after beginning sweetly. Buy it now!
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