The 23 Best Bourbons to Drink Now

The 23 Best Bourbons to Drink Now

Bourbon, often hailed as the quintessential American spirit, holds a complexity that belies its seemingly straightforward nature. Beyond its surface lies a realm of intricate factors—additional regulations, hype, marketing tactics, and enduring myths—that contribute to its allure. Since its resurgence in 2008, bourbon has enjoyed a sustained boom, yet its roots remain firmly grounded in tradition. To navigate this rich landscape, we turn to esteemed bourbon expert Fred Minnick. With a wealth of experience and expertise, Minnick offers invaluable insights into this beloved libation, shedding light on its nuanced intricacies. As a prolific author, judge, and authority in the bourbon world, his perspective illuminates the true essence of this cherished American tradition. Shop Bourbons!

Knob Creek Small Batch Bourbon

This bottle of Knob Creek, which is a distinguished bourbon brand under the Jim Beam umbrella, is celebrated for its commitment to traditional craftsmanship and robust flavor. Named after Abraham Lincoln's childhood home, this small-batch Kentucky straight bourbon is aged for a patient nine years, longer than most counterparts, in charred American oak barrels. With a proof of 100, Knob Creek delivers a rich and full-bodied taste characterized by deep caramel, vanilla, and nutty undertones, embodying a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Recognized for its consistency and bold character, Knob Creek has carved a niche as a go-to choice for bourbon enthusiasts seeking a hearty and well-aged whiskey experience. Buy it now for $39.99.

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon Whiskey

Delight in the unparalleled experience of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon, renowned as the #1 choice in a blind taste test by Whisky Advocate's international reviewers in 2017. This exceptional Bourbon is presented in its purest form—uncut, straight from the barrel, and absent of chill filtering. Individually hand-labeled with a unique proof and batch number, each sip encapsulates the essence of Elijah Craig. Awarded prestigious titles such as Whisky of the Year by Whisky Advocate, #2 Whiskey by Wine Enthusiast, and Double Gold at various renowned competitions, this Bourbon delivers an enticing aroma of caramel, toasted oak, and fruit notes, followed by a palate rich in vanilla, caramel, and butterscotch, complemented by spices of black pepper and cinnamon. The finish is meticulously layered, allowing all flavors to shine, with a gradual, lingering coolness. Buy it now!

Evan Williams

This bourbon from Heaven Hill delivers a perfect balance of corn sweetness and oak depth, complemented by a subtle hint of mint that adds a refreshing touch without overwhelming the senses. Aged for extra years in the barrel, it boasts a smoother character that makes it ideal for savoring neat or over ice. Buy it now for $19.99!

Four Roses Bourbon

Subtle notes of corn and vanilla harmonize with floral aromas, intertwining with flavors of mint and spice. This whiskey is characterized by its simplicity and mellowness, culminating in a unique, long, and soft finish. Bottled at 80 proof, it serves as an excellent base for crafting mixed drinks with a sophisticated, contemporary flair. Buy it now for $23.99!

New Riff Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

New Riff Distilling's core Bourbon expression is a robust and high-rye whiskey that delivers a full-bodied and savory character with a touch of spice. Adhering to the high standards set by America's 1897 Bottled-in-Bond Act, this bourbon is crafted without chill filtration, ensuring a premium and unadulterated experience. The mash bill features non-GMO grains, including 65% corn, 30% rye, and 5% malted barley, offering a unique take on Kentucky's esteemed whiskey traditions. Aged for four years in 53-gallon toasted and charred new oak barrels, New Riff Bourbon reflects a commitment to quality without any shortcuts in the production process. Buy it now!

Old Grand Dad

Named as a tribute to Colonel R.B. Hayden's grandfather, Basil Hayden, Old Grand Dad stands out with its distinctive formulation featuring a higher rye content, resulting in a lighter and spicier flavor profile. Indulge in the robust and complex flavors of oak, pears, apricots, and dark caramel, best enjoyed neat or over ice for a truly satisfying experience. Buy it now for $19.99!

Dickel Bourbon

Nicole Austin's influence at the Cascade Hollow Distilling Co., home to George Dickel Tennessee Whisky, has been transformative for the brand. With a string of notable releases under her guidance, including bottled-in-bond whiskeys, a collaborative rye with Colorado's Leopold Bros., and the boutique Cascade Moon collection, one standout creation is Dickel Bourbon. Aged for eight years, this whiskey adheres to the production standards of Tennessee whiskey but boasts a flavor profile closer to a classic bourbon, according to Austin. Regardless of nomenclature, it proves to be an excellent choice for elevating your favorite cocktails, particularly an Old Fashioned. Keep a bottle on your home bar for a touch of whiskey sophistication. Buy it now!

Larceny Small Batch Bourbon

The Larceny Kentucky Straight Bourbon, steeped in historical legacy, traces its roots back to John E. Fitzgerald, a post-Civil War distiller who founded a distillery along the Kentucky River. Fitzgerald's Old Fitzgerald Bourbon, renowned for its quality, eventually landed in the hands of Julian P. "Pappy" Van Winkle, sealing its fate as one of the world's most celebrated bourbons. Larceny pays homage to Fitzgerald's discerning taste and the Old Fitzgerald brand, incorporating a unique mash of corn, wheat, malted barley, and rye. Distilled in Kentucky limestone water and fermented with a proprietary yeast strain, Larceny honors tradition by choosing wheat as its secondary grain, creating a distinctive and flavorful bourbon. Buy it now for $30.99.

Maker's Mark Bourbon

The Maker's Mark Bourbon is an iconic American whiskey known for its distinctive red wax-dipped bottles and handcrafted approach. Produced in Loretto, Kentucky, Maker's Mark has maintained a commitment to quality and tradition since its inception in 1958. This wheated bourbon, crafted with corn, red winter wheat, and malted barley, offers a smooth and approachable taste. The signature sweetness of the wheat complements the notes of caramel, vanilla, and subtle spice, creating a well-balanced flavor profile. Maker's Mark is carefully aged in charred American white oak barrels, contributing to its rich amber hue and mellow finish. With its recognizable bottle and consistently satisfying taste, Maker's Mark Bourbon stands as a classic choice for bourbon enthusiasts and those exploring the world of American whiskey. Buy it now for $29.99.

Elijah Craig Bourbon Small Batch

The Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon stands out as a remarkable value, offering an exceptional experience for bourbon enthusiasts. The inviting bouquet opens with delightful aromas of honey, sweet corn, vanilla, and brown sugar, setting the stage for what unfolds on the equally luscious palate. This bourbon strikes a perfect balance, combining boldness with smoothness, as flavors of honey, vanilla, and molasses take center stage, complemented by a subtle dry oakiness. Whether savored neat or with a touch of water, Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon delivers a memorable and satisfying drinking experience. Buy it now for $22.99.

Early Times Bottled In Bond Bourbon Whiskey

This genuine American bourbon adheres to strict regulations, being bottled in bond, ensuring its high quality and authenticity. With a robust 50% ABV, it boasts vibrant and fruity notes of peach, raspberry, and dried apricot, offering a refreshing and flavorful experience with every sip. Buy it now!

Four Roses Small Batch

The Four Roses perfects the marrying art of mingling multiple Bourbon recipes, our Master Distiller has expertly selected four original and limited Bourbons at the pinnacle of maturation. The result is a perfectly balanced small batch Bourbon that unveils a mellow symphony of rich, spicy flavors complemented by sweet, fruity aromas and nuanced notes of sweet oak and caramel. The finish is soft, smooth, and pleasantly long-lasting. Best enjoyed straight up, on the rocks, or with a splash, this exceptional Bourbon boasts a proof of 90 and an alcohol/volume of 45%. Buy it now for $39.99.

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!

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.

Four Roses Single Barrel Bourbon

The Four Roses distinguishes itself in the world of bourbon by producing ten distinct distillate flavors annually. Each flavor undergoes individual aging in new white oak charred barrels, resulting in bourbons characterized by floral and fruity aromas, coupled with smoothness and mellowness. Jim Rutledge, the master distiller, meticulously selects one of these ten flavors for the Four Roses Single Barrel, a treat for bourbon connoisseurs. This particular bourbon exhibits additional flavor nuances, featuring notes of honey, maple syrup, and subtle hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. Each barrel undergoes careful sampling and selection based on superior quality before being hand-bottled. With each bottle labeled by hand, detailing the warehouse and racking location, this limited inventory of Single Barrel Bourbon offers a unique and exquisite tasting experience, with each bottle containing 100 proof Bourbon and filling approximately 235 bottles per barrel. Buy it now for $48.99.

Henry McKenna Single Barrel

Henry McKenna Single Barrel Bourbon stands as a testament to meticulous craftsmanship and adherence to strict standards, being the sole extra-aged Bottled-in-Bond Single Barrel Bourbon. Its designation as such underscores its compliance with rigorous U.S. government regulations concerning age and proof. Remarkably, this bourbon undergoes an extended aging process, enduring the passage of 40 Kentucky seasons while maturing in the barrel. Such dedication to quality and tradition ensures that each bottle of Henry McKenna Single Barrel Bourbon offers a rich and nuanced drinking experience that aficionados cherish. Buy it now!

Wilderness Trail Small Batch Bourbon

Fermentation experts Shane Baker and Pat Heist, with decades of experience in the spirits industry, joined forces in 2012 to create their own venture. Despite being newcomers, their wealth of knowledge quickly translated into acclaim for their commitment to quality and meticulous craftsmanship. Their small batch bourbon, a culmination of up to 12 barrels from a shared fermenter, showcases a mash bill of 64% corn, 24% rye, and 12% malted barley. This well-balanced blend offers a delightful interplay of spice and malt, both on the nose and the palate, solidifying their reputation for exceptional spirits. Buy it now for $58.99.

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!

Stellum Bourbon

This bourbon blend is crafted from whiskeys sourced from Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee, showcasing the artistry of master blenders. Bottled at a robust cask strength of 115 proof, its flavor profile is characterized by intensity and complexity, offering a rich and nuanced drinking experience. Buy it now!

W.L. Weller Bourbon 12 Year Old

Belonging to the distinguished wheated bourbon family, the twelve-year-old W.L. Weller stands out by undergoing an extended aging process uncommon among most wheated bourbons. The result is a smooth, approachable, and well-balanced bourbon, distinguished by its beautiful deep bronze color. This expression reflects the meticulous craftsmanship and commitment to quality synonymous with the W.L. Weller brand. Buy it now on sale for $50.

Old Ezra Brooks 7 Year Old Straight Bourbon Whiskey

The Old Ezra Brooks 7 Year Old Straight Bourbon Whiskey stands as a testament to the art of bourbon-making. This Kentucky straight bourbon undergoes a patient aging process in new, charred white oak barrels, maturing gracefully over seven years. What sets it apart is its commitment to authenticity, as it is bottled at barrel strength. The result is a finely crafted bourbon that captures the essence of time, showcasing the rich interplay of flavors and complexity that can only be achieved through meticulous aging. With every sip, the drinker embarks on a journey through seven years of maturation, making seven the truly lucky number for those seeking a genuine bourbon experience. Buy it now!

Barrell Foundation Bourbon

Barrell Craft Spirits, renowned for their cask-strength single barrels and blended batches of bourbon, rye, and American whiskey, has ventured into the realm of non-cask-strength bourbon for a broader audience. This whiskey represents a blend from Kentucky, Indiana, Tennessee, and Maryland, meticulously proofed down to a smooth 100-proof expression. Buy it now for $54.99!

William Larue Weller Bourbon 2023

The William Larue Weller Bourbon 2023 invites connoisseurs into a realm of unrivaled craftsmanship and tradition, showcasing the pinnacle of premium bourbons at an impressive 133.6 proof. This release, part of the esteemed Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, elevates the sensory experience with a symphony of Islay mastery. The nose delights with candied notes of dark brown sugar and vanilla bean, setting the stage for a warm and full palate that unfolds layers of stewed cherry and brown sugar crumble. The finish is robust and dense, enriched with baking spice nuances and a subtle hint of maple syrup. Whether you're a seasoned bourbon enthusiast or embarking on a journey into premium whiskies, the William Larue Weller 2023 promises a tasting experience that is both profound and memorable, encapsulating the essence of Kentucky's rich bourbon heritage. Buy it now for $1,999.99.