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Best Sipping Bourbon For Beginners (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a smooth and flavorful drink, sipping bourbon might be the perfect choice for you. Whether you’re new to the spirit or a seasoned drinker, there are a few factors to consider before purchasing your first bottle.

Firstly, think about your preferred taste profile. Different bourbons have their own unique flavor combinations and can range from sweet to spicy. It’s helpful to do some research or even attend a bourbon tasting event to determine what you like. Secondly, consider the price point. Bourbon can vary in price, and while some pricey bottles may be worth the investment, there are also great options available at a more affordable cost. Finally, think about the alcohol content. Bourbons can range from 80 to 140 proof, so it’s important to know your limits and drink responsibly.

Are you curious about the history and production of bourbon? Want to know how to properly store and serve your drink? Interested in trying out some popular bourbon cocktails? Whether you’re a novice or looking to expand your knowledge, there’s always something new to learn about sipping bourbon. Join the club of bourbon enthusiasts and discover the wide range of flavors and experiences this spirit can offer. So, don't wait anymore, try sipping bourbon today and experience the true essence of this iconic drink.

10 Best Sipping Bourbon For Beginners

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for tasting and nosing small quantities of fine whiskey, Scotch, or bourbon, and makes a great gift.
2
The product is ideal for those looking for a set of four 10 oz glasses to drink whiskey, scotch, cocktails, or cognac.
3
The product is ideal for adding a sweet and boozy flavor to cocktails or desserts.
4
It is ideal for anyone who loves whiskey and wants to make their own at home using a DIY kit.
5
The product is ideal for making handcrafted old fashioned cocktails with bourbon or whiskey.
6
This product is ideal for individuals who want a convenient and nutritious hot beverage option.
7
Ideal as non-alcoholic option for those seeking amaretto flavor in cocktails or straight, without the effects of alcohol.
8
This product is ideal for adding rustic charm to a bathroom or powder room.
9
Ideal for adding a natural, stemless and slow-cooked garnish to old fashioned cocktails, ice cream sundaes, and desserts.
10
The product is ideal for whiskey enthusiasts who appreciate high-quality glassware and a stylish presentation.
Ideal for tasting and nosing small quantities of fine whiskey, Scotch, or bourbon, and makes a great gift.
The product is ideal for those looking for a set of four 10 oz glasses to drink whiskey, scotch, cocktails, or cognac.
The product is ideal for adding a sweet and boozy flavor to cocktails or desserts.
It is ideal for anyone who loves whiskey and wants to make their own at home using a DIY kit.
The product is ideal for making handcrafted old fashioned cocktails with bourbon or whiskey.
This product is ideal for individuals who want a convenient and nutritious hot beverage option.
Ideal as non-alcoholic option for those seeking amaretto flavor in cocktails or straight, without the effects of alcohol.
This product is ideal for adding rustic charm to a bathroom or powder room.
Ideal for adding a natural, stemless and slow-cooked garnish to old fashioned cocktails, ice cream sundaes, and desserts.
The product is ideal for whiskey enthusiasts who appreciate high-quality glassware and a stylish presentation.

1. Ultimate Whiskey Tasting Set – 6 Copitas!

Experience the complex aromas of your favorite spirits with these elegantly designed stemless bourbon, scotch, and whiskey tasting glasses. Shaped into gently rounded tulips with narrow necks, these glasses were specifically created to capture and reveal even the most nuanced aromatic profiles. The bulbous bowl allows for optimal aeration by dispersing sharp alcohol vapors while concentrating and delivering the lush aromas towards the taster’s nose for an ultimate sipping experience.

These specialty vessels are perfect for appreciating single cask or barrel and single malt whiskeys. They are versatile for nosing and sipping any strong aromatic spirits such as rum, gin, cognac, schnapps, cordials, and herbal liquors. These 3.5 oz, 3” tall stemless glasses are ideal for tasting bourbon, scotch whisky, Irish whiskey, Canadian, Japanese, malt, and rye whiskey.

Crafted from the finest brilliant crystal glass, these mini whiskey glasses have a timeless elegance that adds to the overall drinking experience. The snug-to-hold tulip bowls and dishwasher-friendly features make them both refined and practical. You can even use them for other spirits, making them truly versatile and perfect for any occasion.

The set of four whiskey tasting glasses comes neatly packed in our signature gift and storage box, making them an excellent sophisticated gift for any occasion such as a birthday, housewarming, wedding, anniversary, retirement, Father’s Day, for your boss, business partner, or any whiskey lover. The back of the box shares a few smart tips for learning and mastering the tasting, while the silky glass shape matching cloth carefully secures each glass to protect it from dust, scratching, and breaking.

Pros

  • Elegant and versatile design for nosing and sipping any strong aromatic spirits
  • Crafted from the finest brilliant crystal glass, adding to the overall drinking experience
  • Dishwasher-friendly and practical to use
  • Neatly packed in a signature gift and storage box with smart tips for learning and mastering tasting
  • Silky glass shape matching cloth carefully secures each glass to protect it from dust, scratching, and breaking

2. Crystal Spirits Set By Venero

Impress your guests by serving drinks in these elegant twisted whiskey glasses. The set comes packaged in a satin-lined, padded presentation box, making it an ideal gift for birthdays, Christmas, housewarming, or wedding anniversaries. The glasses are crafted from solid crystal, which sparkles beautifully in the light, and features a twisted design that makes them easy to hold. These glasses are perfect for sharing a toast on special occasions with family or clients, or for playing poker and partying with friends.

The thick walls and heavy weighted base retain your drink's temperature, keeping it at the perfect temperature for longer, whether you prefer it ice-cold or room temperature. These large 10 oz rocks glasses are perfect for a double shot and mixer and can fit large ice cubes up to 2", making them perfect for drinking any liquor like Scotch Whiskey, Bourbon, Old Fashioned Cocktail, Cognac, or use them as classy juice or water glasses.

If you're not satisfied with the glasses, you can try them risk-free with the satisfaction guarantee and lifetime warranty. The manufacturer offers outstanding customer service and a satisfaction guarantee. You can return the glasses for a full refund within 30 days. The glasses are also backed by a lifetime manufacturer's warranty. If you ever have a problem, you can contact the manufacturer, and they'll send you a free replacement.

Pros

  • Crafted from solid crystal, which sparkles beautifully in the light
  • Thick walls and heavy weighted base retain your drink's temperature for longer
  • Ideal for sharing a toast on special occasions with family or clients, or for playing poker and partying with friends
  • Large 10 oz rocks glasses are perfect for a double shot and mixer and can fit large ice cubes up to 2", making them perfect for drinking any liquor like Scotch Whiskey, Bourbon, Old Fashioned Cocktail, Cognac, or use them as classy juice or water glasses
  • Covered by a lifetime manufacturer's warranty

Cons

  • – None

3. Woodford Reserve Bourbon Cherries – 13.5 Oz (383g)

Elevate your cocktail game with Woodford Reserve Bourbon Cherries, perfect for muddling, garnishing, and topping your favorite drinks. These cherries are made with natural ingredients and offer a unique brightness and subtle notes of Kentucky's finest bourbon to your recipes. Each jar contains 11 oz (311g) of cherries that are ready to use. Simply refrigerate after opening to ensure freshness.

Crafted with the highest quality standards, these cherries are a must-have for any home bartender or cocktail enthusiast. Impress your guests with the rich and complex flavors that these cherries add to any drink. They are also versatile enough to use in desserts or as a topping for ice cream.

The Woodford Reserve Bourbon Cherries come in a compact jar that measures 2.8" l x 2.8" w x 4.5" h, making it easy to store in your home bar or kitchen. Whether you're a professional mixologist or just starting out, these cherries are an excellent addition to your collection.

Pros

  • Made with natural ingredients
  • Adds brightness and subtle notes of bourbon to cocktails
  • Versatile enough to use in desserts
  • Crafted with the highest quality standards
  • Compact jar size makes it easy to store

4. Whiskey Infusion Set: Diy Mixology For Men

Experience the thrill of crafting your own unique flavor of whiskey with Aged & Charred’s Whiskey Infusion Kit, which allows you to infuse your favorite spirit with the flavors of your choice. The kit includes six different wood chips, such as oak, cherry, and pecan, as well as dried orange peel and cinnamon, to help you achieve the perfect blend. Whether you want to impress your guests at a party or simply enjoy a quiet night in, this kit is perfect for both. It takes just 24-48 hours to create a delectable, custom whiskey that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Aged & Charred’s Whiskey Infusion Kit is the ultimate gift for whiskey lovers who enjoy experimenting with new flavors. The kit provides everything they need to enhance their craft cocktail experience, from the infusion basket to the generous containers of wood chips and dried fruit peels. The unique infusion bottle also includes a filter to keep unwanted particles out of the whiskey, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable drinking experience every time.

If you’re looking for an easy and stress-free way to experiment with infused whiskey, Aged & Charred’s Whiskey Infusion Kit is the perfect choice. Simply add your favorite spirit to the infusion bottle, fill the basket with your desired wood chips and dried fruit, let it rest for 24+ hours, and voila! You now have a delicious whiskey infused with your favorite flavors.

Aged & Charred’s Whiskey Infusion Kit is designed to provide you with a fun and easy way to take your drinks to the next level. The kit includes large containers of wood chips and dried fruit, as well as an infusion bottle that is significantly bigger than other brands, allowing you to create more drinks with each infusion. This makes it an ideal choice for parties and gatherings with friends and family.

Pros

  • Easy and stress-free way to experiment with infused whiskey
  • Generous containers of wood chips and dried fruit
  • Unique infusion bottle includes a filter to keep unwanted particles out
  • Ideal for parties and gatherings with friends and family
  • Creates a delicious, custom whiskey in just 24-48 hours

5. Handcrafted Old Fashioned Cocktail Mix – 32 Servings

Experience the perfect Old Fashioned every time with Strongwater's handcrafted cocktail syrup. This non-alcoholic blend is well-balanced, smooth, and layered, providing an exceptional drinking experience that can be enjoyed on its own over ice. Made with organic cherries, fresh orange peel, cinnamon, clove, cardamom, and bitter herbs, this syrup is the best Old Fashioned drink mixer that you can find in the market.

In 2019, Strongwater's Old Fashioned craft cocktail syrup was recognized as a Good Foods Award Finalist, a testament to its refined recipe and exceptional taste. This flavored cocktail mix is non-GMO and gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious individuals.

Making the perfect Old Fashioned at home has never been easier. Simply fill your glass with ice, add Strongwater's Old Fashioned craft cocktail syrup, and then add your whiskey, bourbon, or rye of choice. Stir it up, and voila! You have the perfect Old Fashioned.

Please note that this syrup contains no alcohol and is best used within 3-4 months of opening. With Strongwater's Old Fashioned craft cocktail syrup, you can enjoy a delicious and authentic Old Fashioned anytime, anywhere.

Pros

  • Handcrafted cocktail syrup that provides a perfect Old Fashioned drinking experience
  • Made with organic cherries, fresh orange peel, cinnamon, clove, cardamom, and bitter herbs
  • Non-GMO and gluten-free
  • Good Foods Award Finalist in 2019
  • Easy to use; just add your whiskey, bourbon, or rye of choice and stir

Cons

  • – Contains no alcohol

6. Swanson Sipping Bone Broth, Chicken Bone Broth, 10.75 Ounce Sipping Cup, Pack Of 8

Enjoy a nutritious and naturally occurring collagen protein-rich bone broth made from chicken bones, vegetables, and herbs with Swanson Sipping Bone Broth with Collagen Protein. It is a perfect snack for busy and active lifestyles. Each microwavable sipping cup of bone broth is a 45 calorie snack that is conveniently packaged to sip on the go. The 10.75-ounce portion is the perfect amount to take with you for an on-the-go snack. Swanson Sipping Bone Broth is crafted from non-GMO ingredients and made from chickens raised with no antibiotics ever. It contains no added preservatives, ensuring that you get only the best and healthiest bone broth. Heat, sip, and go with Swanson Sipping Bone Broth with Collagen Protein.

Swanson Sipping Bone Broth with Collagen Protein is a great source of naturally occurring collagen protein that provides numerous health benefits. It is an excellent source of protein that helps build healthy bones, joints, and muscles. It also supports healthy skin, hair, and nails, making you look and feel younger. Additionally, it is a great source of vitamins and minerals that help boost your immune system, keeping you healthy and strong.

Swanson Sipping Bone Broth with Collagen Protein is convenient and easy to prepare. Simply heat it up in the microwave, and it's ready to sip. It is perfect for busy people who need a quick and easy snack on the go. It is also an excellent alternative to traditional snacks that are high in calories and low in nutrition. With Swanson Sipping Bone Broth with Collagen Protein, you get a healthy, nutritious, and delicious snack that you can enjoy anytime, anywhere.

Pros

  • Naturally occurring collagen protein-rich bone broth
  • Conveniently packaged for on-the-go snacking
  • Crafted from non-GMO ingredients and made from chickens raised with no antibiotics ever
  • No added preservatives

Cons

  • – Not a good source of protein

7. Lyre's Amaretti Non-Alcoholic Spirit – Amaretto Style | Award Winning | 23.7 Fl Oz

Experience the award-winning taste of Impossibly Crafted Non-Alcoholic Spirit – Amaretti, a medal recipient of The 2020 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. This non-alcoholic spirit boasts a unique blend of nutty, bitter and tangy flavors that make it stand out from the crowd. Enjoy it on the rocks or mix it with lemon, orange, and maraschino to create the classic Amaretto Sour. For more cocktail recipes, check out the USER MANUAL for our delicious non-alcoholic cocktail recipes specially designed by our professional mixologists to showcase Lyre's products in the best possible proportions.

Before taking your first sip neat, we recommend you hold back and resist temptation. Lyre's best comes to life when made in a delightful cocktail, and we have a mixology lesson crafted just for you. This non-alcoholic spirit comes in a 700ml (23.7 fl oz) bottle size, making it perfect for sharing with friends and family. With its non-alcoholic Alc Vol, you can enjoy the unique taste of Amaretti without worrying about getting drunk.

Moreover, this non-alcoholic spirit works with Alexa. You can ask Alexa to show you how to make a non-alcoholic cocktail, and she will guide you through the process. This feature makes it easy for you to enjoy your favorite cocktail without leaving your home.

Pros

  • Medal recipient of The 2020 San Francisco World Spirits Competition
  • Unique blend of nutty, bitter, and tangy flavors
  • Perfect for making classic Amaretto Sour
  • Delicious non-alcoholic cocktail recipes designed by professional mixologists
  • Non-alcoholic Alc Vol makes it safe to drink without worrying about getting drunk
  • Works with Alexa for easy cocktail making at home
  • Comes in a 700ml (23.7 fl oz) bottle size, perfect for sharing with friends and family

8. Stemless Cocktail Cherries: Perfect Old Fashioned Garnish

Indulge in the sweet, fruity taste of Traverse City Whiskey Co.'s Premium Cocktail Cherries. Made with 100% natural, gluten-free ingredients and no artificial fillers, thickeners, colors or additives, these cherries are the perfect addition to any drink or dessert. Proudly sourced from the Cherry Capital of the World, Northern Michigan, these cherries are slow-cooked in copper pots to bring out their best flavors, giving them a decadently rich taste. These cherries are also certified kosher, gluten-free, and preservative-free.

These cherries are not only delicious but are also incredibly versatile. They can be used as a garnish in an Old Fashioned or stirred into a whiskey or other sour. They also make the perfect topping for ice creams, sundaes, cheesecakes, and other desserts, adding a burst of flavor to your favorite treats. The cherries are 20% larger than other brands and have a deep, dark plum red color. They are dipped in a flavorful natural syrup that delivers a satisfyingly sweet and savory taste with faint earthy hints.

Traverse City Whiskey Co. takes pride in delivering the highest quality product, and their cherries are no exception. If for any reason a customer is not 100% satisfied with their purchase, the company offers a full refund.

Pros

  • Made with 100% natural, gluten-free ingredients and no artificial fillers, thickeners, colors or additives
  • Certified kosher, gluten-free, and preservative-free
  • Proudly sourced from the Cherry Capital of the World, Northern Michigan
  • Slow-cooked in copper pots to bring out the best flavors
  • 20% larger than other brands and have a deep, dark plum red color
  • Versatile and can be used as a garnish or topping for cocktails and desserts
  • Dipped in a flavorful natural syrup that delivers a sweet and savory taste with faint earthy hints
  • Traverse City Whiskey Co. offers a full refund for any customer that is not 100% satisfied with their purchase

9. Glencairn Whisky Glass In Gift Carton, Set Of 4

Introducing the Glencairn Glass – an official whisky glass that has become the preferred choice of master blenders, connoisseurs, and whisky enthusiasts around the world. The glass has been designed to enhance the whisky drinking experience with its unique and stylish shape, created with utmost care to bring out the best in single malts and aged blends.

Crafted to capture the all-important bouquet, the tapered mouth of the Glencairn Glass allows for easy drinking, differentiating it from the traditional nosing glasses. The wide bowl of the glass enables full appreciation of the whisky’s color while the solid base is designed to sit comfortably in one’s hand, ensuring a steady grip.

The Glencairn Glass is made of lead-free crystal, setting the standard for quality and durability. It has been awarded the Queen’s Award for Innovation and has been used in major whisky festivals, serious whisky bars, and distilleries all over the world. With over 3 million glasses sold annually, it continues to be a popular choice for whisky lovers.

Each gift carton of Glencairn Glass comes with 4 glasses, making it a perfect gift for whisky enthusiasts. It is also dishwasher safe, making it easy to clean and maintain.

Pros

  • Designed to enhance the whisky drinking experience
  • Unique and stylish shape
  • Made of lead-free crystal for quality and durability
  • Used in major whisky festivals, serious whisky bars, and distilleries around the world
  • Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning

Best Sipping Bourbon For Beginners FAQs

How do I distinguish different flavors and aromas in bourbon?

Distinguishing different flavors and aromas in bourbon can be a daunting task, especially for those who are new to this spirit. However, with some practice and patience, you can become an expert in identifying the distinct notes in bourbon.

Firstly, you should pour a small amount of bourbon into a glass and swirl it around to release the aromas. Then, take a deep breath and try to identify the notes. Some common aromas found in bourbon are vanilla, caramel, oak, and spice.

Next, take a small sip and let the bourbon coat your tongue. Pay attention to the flavors and try to identify any specific notes. Some common flavors in bourbon include honey, chocolate, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

It's important to note that everyone's palate is unique, and what one person tastes may differ from another. Therefore, it's essential to practice and experiment with different bourbons to develop your palate.

In summary, to distinguish different flavors and aromas in bourbon, it's crucial to use your sense of smell and taste. With some practice and patience, you can become an expert in identifying the distinct notes in bourbon.

What are some common mistakes beginners make when sipping bourbon?

One of the most common mistakes that beginners make when sipping bourbon is not taking the time to appreciate the aroma. Bourbon has a complex and distinctive smell that can give you an idea of the flavors you can expect to taste. Another mistake is not using the right glassware. Using a tumbler or a shot glass can affect the taste of the bourbon and make it less enjoyable. It's best to use a tulip-shaped glass that allows you to swirl the bourbon and release its aromas.

Another mistake is not adding water to the bourbon. Adding a few drops of water can help to open up the flavors and aromas of the bourbon, making it more enjoyable to drink. Beginners may also make the mistake of drinking bourbon too quickly, not savoring each sip and appreciating the different flavors that come through. Finally, beginners may not be aware of the alcohol content of bourbon and may drink too much too quickly, leading to unpleasant side effects. It's important to drink bourbon slowly and responsibly, savoring each sip and enjoying the experience.

What are the best beginner-friendly bourbons to try?

For those who are new to the world of bourbon, it can be a little overwhelming to know where to start. With so many different brands and varieties to choose from, it's difficult to know which ones are best for beginners.

One great option for those who are just starting out is Maker's Mark. This Kentucky bourbon is known for its smooth, sweet flavor and is a great introduction to the world of bourbon. Another good choice is Buffalo Trace, which has a slightly spicy flavor with notes of vanilla and caramel.

If you're looking for something with a bit more complexity, Woodford Reserve is a great option. This bourbon has a rich, woody flavor with hints of chocolate and caramel. Finally, Jim Beam is a classic bourbon that is widely available and offers a good balance of sweetness and spice.

Ultimately, the best way to find the right bourbon for you is to try a few different varieties and see which ones you enjoy the most. And don't be afraid to ask for recommendations from bartenders or other bourbon enthusiasts – they can often point you towards some great beginner-friendly options.

What food pairings go well with bourbon for beginners?

Bourbon is a popular American whiskey that has a complex flavor profile. If you’re new to drinking bourbon, it can be challenging to pair it with food. However, there are some food pairings that can complement the taste of bourbon and enhance your drinking experience.

One of the classic food pairings with bourbon is barbecue. The smoky and sweet flavors of the meat go well with the caramel and vanilla notes of the bourbon. You can try pairing bourbon with ribs, pulled pork, brisket, or chicken.

Another excellent food pairing with bourbon is cheese. Aged cheddar, blue cheese, and gouda are some of the best options. The richness and bold flavors of the cheese can balance the sweetness and spiciness of the bourbon.

If you’re looking for a sweet pairing, you can try bourbon with chocolate. Dark chocolate with a high percentage of cocoa can complement the flavors of bourbon. You can also try pairing bourbon with pecan pie or crème brûlée.

In conclusion, these are just a few food pairings that can go well with bourbon for beginners. However, the best way to find your perfect pairing is to experiment and try different combinations until you find the one that works for you.

What is the proper way to sip bourbon for beginners?

For beginners, sipping bourbon can seem like a daunting task. It is important to understand that bourbon is a delicate spirit that should be enjoyed with care and attention. The first step to sipping bourbon is to choose a high-quality bourbon that suits your taste. Next, you should pour a small amount into a glass and hold it up to the light to appreciate its color and clarity. Take a deep breath and inhale the aroma of the bourbon to appreciate its unique notes. Then, take a small sip and let it sit on your tongue for a few seconds before swallowing. This will allow you to appreciate the complex flavors and nuances of the bourbon. As you become more experienced, you may want to experiment with adding a small amount of water to your bourbon or trying it on the rocks. Remember, the key to sipping bourbon is to take your time and appreciate the experience.

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