Welcome to my guide on the 12 best bourbons you can buy in 2021! As a bourbon enthusiast, I have spent countless hours exploring the world of this iconic American spirit. In this article, I will share with you my personal picks for the top bourbons available on the market right now. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon aficionado or just starting your journey into whiskey, this guide will help you discover some truly exceptional bottles.
1. Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 15 Year
Let’s start with a bourbon that needs no introduction. Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 15 Year is often regarded as the holy grail of bourbons. Its rich and complex flavor profile, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, is simply unparalleled. While it can be quite challenging to get your hands on a bottle due to its limited availability and high demand, if you ever have the opportunity to try it, don’t hesitate!
2. Four Roses Single Barrel
Four Roses Single Barrel is a bourbon that offers remarkable consistency and quality. Each batch is hand-selected by the master distiller, ensuring only the finest barrels make it to the bottle. With its smooth and mellow taste, featuring hints of ripe fruits, spices, and a touch of honey, this bourbon is a true crowd-pleaser.
3. Blanton’s Original Single Barrel
Blanton’s Original Single Barrel is known for its distinctive bottle design and equally distinctive flavor profile. With its notes of caramel, vanilla, and a subtle hint of citrus, this bourbon delivers a smooth and balanced taste that keeps you coming back for more. Its popularity has skyrocketed in recent years, making it a must-try for any bourbon enthusiast.
4. Eagle Rare 10 Year
Eagle Rare 10 Year is a favorite for those seeking a well-rounded and affordable bourbon. Aged for a decade, this bourbon boasts a rich and complex palate, with flavors of toffee, oak, and a touch of chocolate. The smoothness of this bourbon makes it enjoyable neat or in cocktails, making it a versatile addition to any home bar.
5. Woodford Reserve Double Oaked
If you’re looking for a bourbon with a unique twist, Woodford Reserve Double Oaked is an excellent choice. This bourbon undergoes a second maturation in a deeply toasted and lightly charred barrel, resulting in a rich and full-bodied flavor. With its notes of dark chocolate, caramel, and toasted oak, this bourbon is a true indulgence for the senses.
6. Russell’s Reserve 10 Year
For those who appreciate bold and robust flavors, Russell’s Reserve 10 Year is the way to go. This bourbon is crafted by the Russell family, one of the most respected names in the bourbon industry. With its deep amber color and flavors of toasted nuts, vanilla, and charred oak, this bourbon is sure to make a lasting impression.
7. Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style
Step back in time with Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style. This bourbon pays homage to the era when the production of alcohol was prohibited in the United States. With its bold and spicy flavor profile, featuring notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and dark chocolate, this bourbon is a true taste of history.
8. Maker’s Mark Cask Strength
If you enjoy a higher proof and more intense flavor experience, Maker’s Mark Cask Strength is the bourbon for you. Bottled at barrel strength, this bourbon delivers a rich and full-bodied palate, with flavors of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of baking spices. It’s a powerhouse that is best enjoyed slowly and savored.
9. Basil Hayden’s Caribbean Reserve Rye
If you’re in the mood for a bourbon with a twist, Basil Hayden’s Caribbean Reserve Rye is a fantastic choice. This bourbon combines the smoothness of rye with the sweetness of rum, resulting in a truly unique flavor profile. With its notes of tropical fruits, baking spices, and a hint of caramel, this bourbon transports you to a Caribbean paradise.
10. Wild Turkey Rare Breed
For those who crave a bold and robust bourbon, Wild Turkey Rare Breed is a top-notch option. Bottled at barrel proof, this bourbon packs a punch with its rich and full-bodied flavor. With its notes of dark chocolate, charred oak, and warm spices, it’s a bourbon that demands your attention and delivers a memorable tasting experience.
11. Booker’s Bourbon
Booker’s Bourbon is known for its unapologetic strength and bold flavor profile. Each batch is bottled uncut and unfiltered, preserving its robust character. With its notes of toasted nuts, vanilla, and a hint of smoke, this bourbon offers a truly immersive and intense tasting experience that is not for the faint of heart.
12. Buffalo Trace
Last but certainly not least, Buffalo Trace is a bourbon that offers exceptional quality at an affordable price point. With its smooth and approachable flavor, featuring notes of caramel, vanilla, and a touch of spice, it’s a bourbon that can be enjoyed by both newcomers and seasoned bourbon lovers alike. Whether sipped neat or mixed into your favorite cocktail, Buffalo Trace never disappoints.
There you have it, my personal recommendations for the 12 best bourbons you can buy in 2021. Each of these bourbons offers something unique and special, ensuring a memorable tasting experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, these bourbons are sure to impress. Cheers!
