Whiskeys That Win Bartender Approval

Whiskeys That Win Bartender Approval

If you're trying to impress a bartender, ordering one of these 11 whiskeys is a subtle way to show you're an insider. Just as a niche vanity plate or a rare pressing of a cult band's album signals expertise in other circles, spotting a “handshake” whiskey on the shelf speaks volumes in the world of spirits. Much like the bartender's handshake—a shot of Fernet-Branca—a handshake whiskey is a bottle that enthusiasts pull out to connect with someone who truly appreciates it. Choosing one of these whiskeys signals impeccable taste and an understanding of the craft, creating an unspoken bond with the bartender and ensuring a memorable drinking experience.

Wild Turkey Rare Breed Barrel Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

This whiskey, which was a marriage of six, eight, and twelve-year-old bourbons, won the Double Gold Medal at the 2013 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Buy it now!

Henry McKenna Single Barrel 10 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

According to Jim Murray, author of the Whisky Bible, this whiskey was "magnificent" after being aged for at least ten years. Buy it now!

Green River Distilling Co. Straight Bourbon Whiskey

This 90 proof whiskey has a rich, golden-amber color and is aged on-site at some of the state's oldest warehouses. With a mashbill of 70% corn, 21% winter rye, and 9% malted barley, Green River is brewed from maize that is sourced locally. Warming spice flavors on the mouth and scent are a result of the higher rye percentage. Buy it now!

Peerless Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

"The launch of our bourbon marks the realization of so many dreams from the team at Kentucky Peerless." ~ Caleb Kilburn. Buy it now!

Frey Ranch Straight Bourbon Whiskey

A four-grain mash bill consisting of 66.6% corn, 11.4% rye, 10% wheat, and 12% malted barley is used to make Frey Ranch Straight Bourbon Whiskey. This award-winning wine, which is bottled at 90 proof and aged for at least 4 years, is distinctly satisfying. Buy it now!

Noah's Mill Small Batch Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey

This small-batch Kentucky bourbon, which can be aged for up to 20 years, won the Double Gold Medal in the 2012 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Buy it now!

Blade & Bow Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

The final batch of whiskey produced at the original Stitzel-Weller Distillery is used to make this acclaimed solera-aged bourbon. Buy it now!

Widow Jane 10 Year Old Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Widow Jane 10 Year Bourbon, a hyper-small-batch whiskey with a charred wood finish, rounded spice, and a faint sweetness on the palate, is hand-assembled in Brooklyn utilizing a blend of the rarest and richest whiskeys from Kentucky, Tennessee, and Indiana. Buy it now!

Bardstown Origin Series Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

A superb high-rye bourbon with a remarkable flavor. Our Origin whiskey is a 36% high-rye mash bill that combines a burst of rye spice with the greatest qualities of traditional bourbon. Ideal as the base for a high-end artisan cocktail or as a distinctive pour.

 Notes on taste: Rich wood, caramel, and nutmeg support a superbly balanced blend of mint, orange blossom, and apricot. Waves of vanilla and cinnamon on the palate give way to a strong, distinctive, long-lasting finish.  Buy it now!

Redwood Empire Pipe Dream Cask Strength Bourbon Whiskey

Pipe Dream Cask Strength Bourbon Whiskey is an uncut and unfiltered craft offering, delivering the full experience straight from the barrel. This limited edition is aged for a minimum of four years in the temperate climate of Northern California's coast, showcasing Redwood Empire's dedication to exceptional whiskey-making. Boasting a deep golden hue, its nose reveals notes of toffee, cherry, and soft leather, while the palate delights with flavors of cherry cola, honey, butterscotch, and pecans. Crafted with a mash bill of 73% corn, 18% rye, 5% malted barley, and 4% wheat, it is a blend of bourbons aged from 4 to 14 years, with a proof of 115.8. Acclaimed with 96 points from The Tasting Panel, 91 points from Whiskey Advocate, and a Platinum Medal for Best in Show at the TAG Spirits Awards, this bourbon sets a new standard in cask strength craft whiskey. Buy it now!

Still Austin Whiskey Co. Cask Strength Bourbon Whiskey

This bold and elevated version of our beloved straight bourbon combines strength and finesse, bottled at an impressive 118 proof. Made with a mash bill of 70% white corn, 25% rye, and 5% malted barley, this 100% Texas spirit captures the essence of craftsmanship. Aged for at least two years, it boasts a complex profile with a nose of brandied cherries, muddled mint, blackberry cobbler, biscuit crust, and cinnamon toast. The palate delivers grilled peaches, balsamic vinegar, butterscotch pecan pie, and dark brown sugar, while the finish highlights rye spice, nutmeg, and clove. Recognized with Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in both 2022 and 2023, this 116-proof (58% ABV) bourbon is a true powerhouse, offering a rich and unforgettable tasting experience. Buy it now!