20 Best Sipping Bourbon For Beginners (2023 Updated)

I’ve had a lot of bourbons over the years and have made this my only bourbon I buy and drink now. First off, it’s made with non GMO corn! That’s a huge deal to me. On top of that, it’s 50. 5 % alcohol! Last but most important, it taste great! It’s got everything I want in a whiskey at a very modest price.

Seriously, why pay more? Just hope the price doesn’t keep creeping up? If it does, I’ll keep buying it cause everything else will have as well.

There are several types of bourbon, each one serving a specific & special purpose. Like a date with an attractive woman, you can enjoy spending hours of complex conversation with. That’s why Four Roses came into existence.

Then there’s that date when everything is destined to have a Wild Turkey 101 ending. Just my way of saying this whiskey has the best finish of any I’ve ever consumed.

Not gonna lie at first it was a little Hot because I’m relatively new. But after a few glasses here and there I’m now acclimated. Let me tell you wow, you really taste the difference between an 80 or 90 proof and this.

It’s an absolute caramel bomb and pretty sweet. I’ll always keep it around. Goes great in cocktails too, actually stands up. But I have to say I recommend it neat.

I’ve recently become interested in bourbons and began reading as much as I could about the various brands. The Buffalo Trace distillery in Frankfort, KY produces some of the worlds best bourbons. Expressions like Pappy Van Winkle, W.

L. Weller, Blanton’s. Eagle Rare, to name just a few. Their are different types of drinkers to speak value to. For people using it as a mixing bourbon, its full flavor mixes well without losing many of the bourbon’s characteristics, and it’s probably priced right around the max of what they want to spend.

As a sipper, no matter what experience you may have drinking whiskey straight, anyone can enjoy drinking this one. The quality and flavor of Buffalo Trace is always far better than you’d expect from a $25 bottle of bourbon.

I’ve been sitting on this bottle for a couple years now. Every once in a while I’ll have a pour but I honestly forget how good this bourbon is. The nose is sweet corn, floral honey, toasty oak with cherry and cedar followed by burnt citrus skins, mild dampness, and very faint mango.

The palate is fresh cinnamon and brown sugar, sweet oak, and black pepper. The mid is vibrant raspberries and strawberries followed by powdered sugar and burnt caramel. The finish drops off but is somewhat dry with burnt orange skins and mild tobacco.

Overall this is the best whiskey you can buy for $20ish. It’s a subtle classic that punches way beyond its price point. I always miss out on the barrel picks but the original is quite delicious for 90 proof.

I’ve recently become interested in bourbons and began reading as much as I could about the various brands. The Buffalo Trace distillery in Frankfort, KY produces some of the worlds best bourbons. Expressions like Pappy Van Winkle, W.

L. Weller, Blanton’s. Eagle Rare, to name just a few. Buffalo Trace is their flagship expression and had gotten very good reviews. As the other reviewer pointed out, Buffalo Trace had become hard to get here in PA.

Our State Liquor Stores( yes we still have State control of liquor here in PA) were completely sold out and I knew I wanted to try some. So I placed an order with Caskers. The bottle arrived well packed and in short order.

After trying several other brands and then the Buffalo Trace, I can tell you that this bourbon is currently my favorite to sip neat or on the rocks. It is an exceptionally smooth bourbon. If you haven’t yet, give this a try.

You won’t be disappointed.

For those of you who don’t know, a whiskey can not be a Bourbon unless it is made in Kentucky. That being said, they don’t call this Bourbon 101 for nothing. It is 101 proof. That means it is 50. 5 percent alcohol.

Most other Bourbons and whiskeys are 80 proof and 40 percent alcohol. Not only does 101 get you where you want to go faster, is has a smooth flavor that lets you know this is a fine Kentucky Bourbon.

Big fan of this bourbon. Spent the night making old fashions for a group and they were fantastic. It’s smooth, and delicious. This is a prime example of “you get what you pay for”. Definitely a premium bourbon and made for sipping on its own, or in a cocktail like an old fashioned.

If you’re making an elaborate cocktail, you can afford to get something less premium. But if you want something good, this is a great choice 👌🏼.

I would say this one fit the mold of average for this price range. I’ve had a lot at this price point and there is nothing wrong with it. It’s rather flat on the nose. There is a light earthy scent but also a hint of cherry.

There’s a smokey palate that is smooth but it moved into a surprisingly strong burn in the finish. It’s not long, though, so it doesn’t linger. In the end, there’s nothing that makes this stand out from other bourbons at this price range for me.

There’s nothing wrong with drinking it and I’ll drink more, I have no doubt. But if I’m buying at this price range, I still like Woodford Reserve Double Batch. but that’s because I like butterscotch.

Wow. Just WOW. At first, I didn’t know what to think. Somewhat new to the bourbon world, I love spicy intakes and oak finishes. And this at first, just seemed like, ew, bitter and then herbal aftertaste.

But my body wasn’t rejecting it, I kept on wanting to know what I was tasting. About half a bottle down. I think I have a pretty good idea now. And now, oh my, and now this is definitely the most complex and wonderful bourbon I’ve gotten so far.

This has been a wonderful learning experience because it’s opened up my palate to really disguising the vast amount of flavors that come from bourbon. And this is what this bourbon made me realize, a lot of the other bourbons I’ve had were just, simple, or maybe I’m just becoming more experienced with my taste buds, but either way, I think this is an amazing bourbon and it makes me eager to try more and see what other experiences there are out there.

And finally to the review. With this, it wasn’t just taste in, taste done. The nose hit me with this kind of sweet apple/peach smell, which was complimented by the intake, but then turned to dark bitter fruits, possibly plum, and then for a second cherry.

And then the bitter notes start to come, and this one took me a while to get. First it hits you with the tobacco, then I get a strong herbal/green tea kind of taste with a long leathery finish. The great thing is when you think it’s all over the cherry comes back and hits you in the mouth.

I mean, this bourbon really has a long of great complexities, and even if it doesn’t agree with your palate (and you’re crazy if you don’t like it), then you can at least say, wow that was some great quality bourbon and I just need to find out what that taste was, because I can’t quite put my finger on it.

On another note, there are 10 different recipes, so every barrel number could be different. Can’t wait to buy another!.

This the least expensive Old Forrester bottle I’ve purchased and I gotta say I prefer the more expensive versions. 1910 is my favorite for its smooth finish and great taste. Compared to that one, this 100proof version is a bit harsh on the finish.

The nose is pure maple syrup and light vanilla, taste on the tongue is a bit astringent, and the finish is pure cherry cough syrup. Considering the 1910 & 1920 bottles are double the price, I would rather pay more knowing I’m getting a much better tasting whisky.

Old Forrester: the original bartenders handshake, or the Kentucky handshake, which ever you prefer to call it. This is the best, and original bourbon of the United States. The old is Brandon existence.

You cannot find a better bottle of bourbon to keep on your back bar, that you don’t have to cringe when people mix with Coke. Their higher tears are even better, especially if you can magically get your hands on a bottle of birthday bourbon.

Makes a great old-fashioned, Manhattan, just about anything you can throw at it, it will stand up to. If you’re looking for a nice spicy cake they also make a Rye that’s around the same price point.

Anything is subjective to specific tastes. film, desserts, and bourbon also gets added to the list. Old Forester 100 (OF100) has been a consistent top pick in my bourbon journey. The flavor profile is just right.

just the right amount of sweetness and spice for my palate and when you add in price and availability, it’s perfect. Palates differ and some people don’t like it but OF has been knocking it out of the park lately with this and their 1920 and it’s a definite ‘must try’ for anyone getting into bourbon.

You don’t need to buy the liter or 750 but instead try an airline bottle or a pint. even a pour at a bar. and pour it over some ice. If you don’t like it, you haven’t lost much.

First, let me preface the review by saying my ratings is based on comparing to other bourbons regardless of price. Some people will give something 3 starts if they don’t like it and thats not where I am at.

Three star to me means that its a solid, middle of the road bourbon that I enjoy, but don’t think it stands out. I’ll save the flavor notes because everyone has a different palate and get different things out of it (especially if adding ice/water).

This a solid, respectable and consistent bourbon. Its got a little bit of everything, but to me, just missing that thing that smacks you in your face and gets your attention. Where I live, this costs about $42 a bottle and wouldn’t buy at that price, but in the $30 price range, definitely worth having in the cabinet when you are in the mood for something on the moral floral/fruity side (makes a pretty good Old Fashioned in my opinion).

I’m not going to compare its flavor directly to any other bourbons, but its definitely better than your standard offerings from like Jim Beam or Jack Daniels or even its own small batch offering. But I think it falls short of others like Woodford (standard reserve or double oaked), 1792 single barrel, Knob Creek single, Eagle Rare 10 year, etc.

Basically its something I enjoy from time to time, but not something I ever go to the cabinet looking for.

The single barrel eclipses the small batch. You would never guess it is 100 proof. Very smooth and mellow, but bursting with flavor of vanilla, and almost honeysucksle. Though 100 proof, there is no harshness on the nose.

An excellent bourbon especially at this price point.

I live in NC and have been drinking Elijah Craig bourbon pretty consistently for several years, and really enjoyed it until recently. In the last couple months, the taste seems to have become more earthy or kind of musty, really weird.

I exchanged one bottle and the new bottle had the old familiar (good) taste. Bought another bottle when that ran out, it tasted musty. Exchanged it, the new bottle has the bad taste. I tried contacting their web site, never heard from them.

I’m now buying other bourbons, and they’re fine, so hopefully it isn’t my taste buds that changed. Hurts me to pour bourbon down the drain, but I can’t stand the taste and I won’t serve it to anyone else.

Too bad for me, because I really liked Elijah Craig, but I won’t buy it again.

First, this is for the barrel pick I got from the River Edge NJ store so each one may differ. This was only 130. 2 but really punches above its proof. It was absolutely delicious; Lots of caramel and vanilla and a very pleasant finish.

Also had that very nice thick mouth feel that you get from BTAC bottles. The nose almost reminded me of GTS. I bought two bottles and I’m glad I did, normally you’re limited to one. Shared it with one of my best friends who doesn’t usually like higher proof bottles and he loved it.

Very pleasantly surprised.

After seeing the hazmat 139. 7 proof on this private barrel I knew it had to be purchased. *Warning* this bottle is not for the faint of heart but for those that can brave the proof you’re in for an experience.

Very complex and rich throughout. Nose: Carmel, dried red fruit, hint of chocolate Palate: Chocolate covered cherries, rich smooth Carmel, complex Finish: For days… lasts a very long time… more of the palate just lingers on the back of the tongue.

Overall: For me this is a definite buy… heck multiple buy at this point. If you are new to bourbon or whiskey you may want to wait on this one but for any experienced / avid bourbon or whiskey drinker this is a must have.

Going by reviews from expert tasters I had high expectations. I really wanted to like it, but for me it didn’t work. I’m still a noob at bourbon so my palette might be missing something, but I never felt a distinct flavor come through.

As if the flavor was there, but bunched up at the gate unable to get to the starting line. The body seemed thin and the finish bitter and short. At the same time there wasn’t anything especially bad about it either.

It did have a nice clean and balanced taste overall.

In terms of flavor, it’s fantastic! On the rocks, this is a great drink. However, you performed admirably in terms of shipping! It was a race against time, with less than a week till Christmas. I wanted two bottles of Buffalo Trace for stockings for my son-in-laws, but no one in town had any! So I though, what the heck, I’ll give it a shot.

I’ve ordered from Liquor Mates before and they’ve always been fantastic. The order was placed on the Saturday before Christmas, and the box arrived two days later! AMAZING!!! I’ll be a loyal customer for life!.

So I’ve been a huge fan of Makers Mark since I was given my first bottle when I got home from my first deployment from Iraq. It was the USMC Camp pendleton addition one, Since then it’s been my go to whenever I’m out with friends.

I personally drink a “Maker’s stone sour” which is obviously a Markers sour but with a splash of orange juice. Please try it if you haven’t! I’ve now been to the distillery twice! Both times have been awesome! Anyways can’t wait for my barrel to be done so I can come back and get some from it!.

Cheers p. s. thanks for the Xmas gifts every year! Yall are awesome!.

is a bourbon that goes down smooth and easy. It’s not one that is so strong it’s hard to enjoy. It’s made with soft red winter wheat as opposed to rye. And, of course the iconic red wax seal on the bottle they’re famous for! They have a free ambassador program on their website.

You not only get an ambassador kit in the mail but, something even cooler, IMO. All new Ambassadors are assigned a barrel of Maker’s Mark. Your name will be engraved on a placard which will be affixed to a newly filled barrel.

Once your barrel has finished aging, one-of-a-kind Ambassador bottles from that batch will be available for purchase with your name on the label. One of my favorites is making a Whiskey Sour. recipe is below! #MakersMark #Ambassador #WhiskeySour #Influenster Whiskey Sour Recipe 2 parts Maker’s Mark® Bourbon 1/2 part simple syrup 1 part lemon juice Add Maker’s Mark, lemon juice and simple syrup to an ice-filled shaker.

Give it a good shake. Strain into a rocks glass over ice. Garnish with a lemon peel and a cherry. 🍒 🍋.

Big fan of Makers Mark, especially 46 and the yearly high-proof exclusive, not to mention wheater bourbons in general. I will say that drinking this neat (how I usually drink bourbon) did not impress me very much and it drank like a much hotter regular Makers Mark.

However, one hot Arizona day I added one large sphere of ice and it really opened up the flavor profile. Now I always add a bit of water or some slow melting ice to this to broaden the taste and my enjoyment.

Notes of baking spices, vanilla, and cherry. Medium length finish. 4/5 stars because for it to have a perfect score I would rather have to not add anything to it. Also, the proof is 108. 7 rather than 110 as pictured on the thumbnail.

And one last nit-pick is it has a screw top rather than a cork top.

I really thought I’d enjoy this, the standard Double Oaked is one of my favorite bourbons, and easily the best for the price. I prefer it to the select. Possibly it’s the fact I had it immediately following a fish fry, and the lemon caused the unpleasant taste on my palette, I prefer my bourbon neat.

I’ll give it another go tomorrow. On the front was a vinegar (not burn) tang. It killed any other flavors. Nothing complex. I’ll take the pancakes and maple syrup from the standard Double Oaked. That being said, there is zero burn to this and if you give it a minute on the back end was one of the best Kentucky hugs I’ve had recently.

I’ll give it a shot when my palette is more ready, if I still taste the vinegar, I’ll try it with a cigar.

I love this bourbon – as expected. I had read blogs about it for months and decided to try it. Just don’t order it through Liqour Bar. The Bourbon was $38. That’s a fairly competetive price. But the shipping was as much as the bourbon.

I didn’t notice that until I had already clicked “Purchase”. I tried to cancel the order within one minute but they instantly wanted a 15% re-stocking fee. Apparently somone had sprinted to the shelf, pulled the product and started the shipping process within 45 seconds? C’mon.

So, HIGH marks for the bourbon and LOW marks for this company. The bottle was packed appropriately and arrived unharmed within a couple of weeks. But it’s WAY cheaper to just find it in your area and go pick up a bottle.

Go for it! Worth the price.

Opened Eagle Rare with great expectations since Buffalo Trace was so wonderful. Eagle Rare is wildly different than Buffalo Trace. Eagle Rare, Smells(aroma) of deeply charred wood almost like charcoal and tastes like it smells.

It has a long and lingering flavor which lasts an hour or more. It may work well in cocktails but not for sipping. My opinion…and I am not an expert. I will stay with Buffalo Trace.

This is the best whiskey I have tasted. Much better than Buffalo Trace which is my favorite because of taste and price. Eagle Rare occasionally comes to the liquor stores in Pennsylvania but it’s immediately sold out.

The price is around $50 which I believe should be the price for this whiskey. I purchased it just to try it since I couldn’t get it from my liquor store. I normally don’t spend more than $60 for a bottle.

This Bourbon is truly “Rare. ” The Kentucky River reveals itself with plentiful pure limestone water and rich river bottom loam for growing exceptional grains that create that “Eagle Rare” experience with every sip.

Experience “Eagle Rare” 10 year old Bourbon and taste this legendary spirit!!! Only then you will truly understand what makes this blend so wonderful, enjoy!!!.

Okay. I make no claim to be any more than a novice bourbon drinker. While I have tried both more expensive varieties and others at a comparable price point, I will say…. When co side ring cost as a reflection of taste, this is a fantastic bourbon.

Tbh it is my preferred bourbon and probably top 3 bourbon of the 20-40 different ones I have tried. It is smooth with very little bite. It falls into a category of caramel, Smokey, and Oakey in flavors.

It is not a fruit heavy bourbon which I will say I leaned towards prior to tasting this. I highly recommend trying it IF you can find it.

I actually received this as a birthday present, courtesy of friends who know nothing about whiskey buying a gift for a guy who knows a little about whiskey. And man was it a nice surprise! Woodford’s Double Oaked is a step above its cheaper base, presenting a nice oaky bourbon with accents of vanilla and caramel—perfect for sipping.

It’s softly woody on the nose, with its vanilla and sugary accents coming through the oak (courtesy of its aging advantage over the standard Woodford). It tastes just like how it smells: oaky and sweet, but balanced by rich leathery undertones.

It’ll finish you off on the smokier side, but still retaining its sweet woodiness; think: burnt caramel and toasted vanilla. Overall, it’s a great sipper, far above its standard cousin. The price might put you off, especially since this range has a lot of contenders (I’m looking at you Sagamore Spirit), but if you’re deciding between this and something ten bucks cheaper? Go with this.