As the golden sun of 2024 rises, it ushers in a new era in the bourbon landscape, a renaissance marked by an exquisite blend of tradition and innovation. This year promises to be a hallmark in the chronicles of bourbon, showcasing a tapestry of flavors that are as rich in history as they are in taste.
The bourbon industry, steeped in heritage and revered for its craftsmanship, has witnessed a remarkable evolution. Distillers, both venerable and new, have delved deeper into the art of bourbon making, exploring uncharted territories of grain compositions, aging techniques, and flavor profiles. The result is a stunning array of bourbons that not only pay homage to the time-honored traditions of bourbon crafting but also embrace the boldness of the new age.
In 2024, we are witnessing a reawakening of the senses. Each bourbon on our distinguished list is a testament to the masterful artistry and relentless pursuit of perfection that defines the spirit of this era. These bourbons are not just spirits resting in a bottle; they are storied concoctions, each drop encapsulating the passion, the innovation, and the relentless pursuit of quality that are the hallmarks of this bourbon renaissance.
As we embark on this journey through 2024’s most exceptional bourbons, prepare to indulge in a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your palate and enrich your appreciation for this magnificent spirit. This year’s selection is a harmonious blend of bold, pioneering spirits and timeless classics, each contributing to a rich, unfolding narrative of taste and refinement.
So, let us raise our glasses to 2024 — a year where the bourbon industry not only honors its past but also toasts to its future, a future brimming with possibilities, excellence, and an unwavering commitment to the sublime art of bourbon making.
W. L. Weller Full Proof Bourbon: A Wheated Marvel
In the illustrious world of bourbon, few names evoke a sense of timeless tradition and innovative spirit quite like W. L. Weller Full Proof Bourbon. This exquisite spirit, a wheated marvel, stands as a proud testament to the pioneering legacy of William Larue Weller, who, in a stroke of genius, eschewed the conventional use of rye in favor of wheat. It is this bold decision that has given birth to a bourbon of unparalleled smoothness and complexity.
The W. L. Weller Full Proof Bourbon is not just a bourbon; it’s a historical narrative in a glass. Crafted with meticulous care, it is bottled at a robust 114 proof, the very same proof at which it entered the barrel. This choice is more than a nod to tradition; it’s a commitment to authenticity. The result is a bourbon that is unadulterated and unfiltered, preserving the full spectrum of flavors and aromas that nature intended.
As one savors a sip, they are greeted by a symphony of robust vanilla and oak notes, a melody that dances on the palate with a richness and depth that only time and craftsmanship can achieve. The absence of chill filtration ensures that every nuance, every subtle hint of flavor, is captured in its purest form. This approach not only enhances the bourbon’s mouthfeel but also appeals to those connoisseurs who seek an experience that is as close to the barrel as possible.
The W. L. Weller Full Proof Bourbon, with its harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, has thus become a beacon for whiskey enthusiasts around the globe. It represents a bold step in the evolution of bourbon, a step that respects the past while boldly striding into the future. For those who appreciate a bourbon that is both a reflection of history and a celebration of the artisan’s craft, W. L. Weller Full Proof Bourbon is not just a choice; it is a pilgrimage to the very heart of what makes bourbon so captivating.
Brother’s Bond Original Cask Strength: A Treat For the Senses
In the refined echelons of bourbon, Brother’s Bond Original Cask Strength Straight Bourbon emerges as a beacon of flavor, texture, and heritage. This bourbon, crafted by Ian Somerhalder and Paul Wesley, famously known as “The Salvatore Brothers” from “The Vampire Diaries,” transcends its television roots to establish a legacy in the world of fine spirits. The inception of Brother’s Bond is a tale of friendship and shared passion, a narrative that is as rich and compelling as the bourbon itself.
Brother’s Bond Original Cask Strength is an embodiment of the bond Ian and Paul share, a bond fortified over years of savoring bourbons together. Each of the 70 hand-selected barrels reflects their commitment to quality and their journey in creating a bourbon that resonates with aficionados and casual drinkers alike. The name, Brother’s Bond, is a tribute to their on-screen personas, their real-life friendship, and their dedication to crafting an exceptional bourbon.
The luxurious texture of Brother’s Bond Original Cask Strength is a testament to its meticulous crafting process. Aged for a minimum of four years in virgin American oak barrels, this bourbon presents a rich, sophisticated mouthfeel that is both bold and smooth. The barrels, with #4 char staves and #2 char heads, contribute to the bourbon’s deep character and nuanced profile.
The bourbon’s richness is harmoniously balanced by its four-grain, high rye mash bill – comprising 65% Corn, 22% Rye, with Wheat and Barley completing the blend. This composition offers a symphony of flavors, where each grain contributes its distinctive note, creating a chorus of tastes that is both complex and pleasing. The copper column and copper pot-doubler distillation further refine its profile, adding layers of depth and character.
On the nose, Brother’s Bond Original Cask Strength reveals complex aromas of ripe banana, walnut, leather, warmed rye bread, vanilla, and a hint of subtle smoke – an olfactory delight that primes the senses for the first sip. The palate is greeted with a bold and sophisticated taste profile, featuring dried fruits, caramel, vanilla, and honey – a rich tapestry of flavors that unfold in a cascade of sensory pleasure.
With an ABV ranging from 57.55% to 57.9%, this cask strength bourbon showcases Brother’s Bond Bourbon in its most unadulterated form. Unfiltered and uncut, it presents an authentic experience, as intended by its creators. The bourbon’s accolades, including a GOLD at the 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition and a DOUBLE GOLD at the 2023 New York World Wine & Spirits Competition, are a testament to its exceptional quality and the mastery behind its creation.
Brother’s Bond Original Cask Strength Straight Bourbon is more than a bourbon; it is a celebration of friendship, a tribute to shared passions, and a symbol of the bond that unites us all. It invites us to savor each sip and enjoy each moment, echoing Ian and Paul’s sentiment: “Time to bond. Cheers.”
Peg Leg Porker: A Proven Champion
In the illustrious world of bourbon, where prestige and character are celebrated, Peg Leg Porker Straight Bourbon Whiskey stands as a beacon of excellence. Crowned the World’s Best Bourbon for 2023 by the Singapore World Spirits Competition, this whiskey encapsulates a distinct character that is both award-winning and innovative. What sets Peg Leg Porker apart is not just its exceptional quality, but also its unique finishing process involving hickory charcoal filtration, a technique that adds a distinctive touch to its already remarkable profile.
Peg Leg Porker Tennessee Bourbon, expertly sourced from top-tier, albeit undisclosed distilleries (with speculation pointing towards George Dickel), is a testament to the art of careful selection and blending. The composition of its mash bill, believed to be 84% corn, 8% rye, and 8% malted barley, offers a fascinating insight into its flavor profile. This combination results in a bourbon that is rich in sweetness, balanced by the subtle spice of rye and the complexity brought by malted barley.
Aged for a minimum of eight years in virgin charred oak barrels, Peg Leg Porker demonstrates the profound impact of time and wood on bourbon. This aging process imbues the spirit with depth and character, leading to a 90-proof bourbon that is both robust and nuanced. The use of virgin charred oak is crucial, as it contributes significantly to the bourbon’s flavor profile, infusing it with notes of vanilla and a gentle, smoky richness.
Upon nosing Peg Leg Porker, one is immediately enveloped in aromas of sweet corn, candy-coated chocolate, and vanilla, intertwined with oak dusted with a floral and herbal seasoning. This bouquet sets the stage for a tasting experience that is both delightful and complex.
The palate of Peg Leg Porker is a journey through a spectrum of flavors, where each sip reveals new dimensions. The initial taste brings to mind old-fashioned Smarty candies, a nostalgic sweetness that is quickly complemented by the richness of vanilla and the brightness of cherries. As the experience unfolds, layers of oak and baking spice emerge, beautifully interwoven with pops of citrus, adding a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
The acclaim received by Peg Leg Porker is further underscored by its triumphant performance in some of the most prestigious spirits competitions. Clinching the coveted 2023 Triple Still Award with Double Gold wins in the San Francisco, Singapore, and New York competitions, Peg Leg Porker has firmly established itself as a bourbon of exceptional caliber and distinction.
Peg Leg Porker Straight Bourbon Whiskey is not just a beverage; it is a celebration of the meticulous craft of bourbon making. It invites connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike to explore a world where tradition meets innovation, where every sip is an exploration of flavors and craftsmanship. This bourbon, with its award-winning character and unique hickory charcoal filtration, stands as a shining example of what makes bourbon such a beloved and revered spirit.
For more on this incredible bourbon, click here.
Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond: Legacy in a Bottle
In the distinguished world of bourbon, where heritage and authenticity are revered, there stands a spirit that embodies the essence of tradition and quality: Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond. This Kentucky Bourbon, with its roots deeply entrenched in the history of the distillery, harks back to 1939, a time when it first captured the hearts of bourbon enthusiasts in Kentucky. Its ascent to becoming the number-one-selling Bourbon in the state is a testament to the unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and excellence by the founding family, a legacy that continues to this day.
The mastery poured into each bottle of Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond is a reflection of the stringent standards set forth in the historic Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897. This act, a hallmark of quality and assurance, dictates that the whiskey must be the product of a single distillation season and a single distiller at one distillery. This rigorous process ensures a level of purity and consistency rarely found in the spirits world.
Aged for a minimum of four years in a federally bonded warehouse under the watchful eye of the U.S. government, Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond is an expression of patience and time-honored methods. The aging process under such strict supervision is not just a regulatory requirement; it is a commitment to creating a bourbon of unparalleled quality.
Bottled at exactly 100 proof, this bourbon offers a robust yet balanced profile, a testament to its meticulous production process. The mash bill of 75% corn, 15% rye, and 12% malted barley creates a harmonious blend, where the sweetness of corn is perfectly complemented by the spiciness of rye and the smoothness of malted barley. This composition results in a bourbon that is rich in flavor, yet remarkably smooth and approachable.
The Bottled-in-Bond label is not merely a mark of quality; it is a narrative of the bourbon’s journey from grain to glass. It denotes the authenticity of its production, clearly identifying the distillery of origin and, if different, the place of bottling. This transparency is a nod to the discerning bourbon drinker who values the authenticity and history behind their spirit.
The acclaim garnered by Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond, as evidenced by its DOUBLE GOLD win at the 2023 New York World Wine & Spirits Competition, speaks volumes of its standing in the bourbon community. This accolade is not just an award; it is a recognition of the dedication to preserving the heritage and integrity of true Kentucky Bourbon.
Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond is more than just a bourbon; it is a tribute to the earliest days of bourbon-making, a celebration of the art and craft that goes into each bottle. For those who seek a bourbon that is steeped in history, crafted with passion, and adheres to the highest standards of quality, Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond stands as a beacon of excellence and tradition.
For more on this spectacular bourbon, click here.
15 STARS 14 Year Old Timeless Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey: The Legend
In the esteemed realm of fine bourbons, a distinguished newcomer has emerged, setting a new standard for excellence and complexity. The 15 STARS 14 Year Old Timeless Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a spirit that has swiftly captured the attention of bourbon aficionados and critics alike, stands as a testament to the art of bourbon making. This exquisite spirit, which has garnered high praise and prestigious awards, is a shining example of the heights that American whiskey can achieve.
The essence of 15 STARS lies in its meticulous crafting process. This limited edition bourbon is a masterful blend of straight bourbons, meticulously selected from the finest distilleries in Kentucky and Indiana. Each component of this blend has been aged patiently, a process spanning a remarkable 10 to 13 years. This extended aging imbues the bourbon with a depth and richness that can only be achieved over time, resulting in a spirit that is both complex and harmonious.
The crowning touch of the 15 STARS bourbon is its unique finishing process in sherry casks from southwestern Spain. This additional maturation period in sherry casks imparts an extraordinary layer of flavors and aromas to the bourbon, setting it apart from its peers. The influence of the sherry casks is evident in the bourbon’s aroma and taste profile. Upon nosing, one is greeted with an intriguing aroma reminiscent of cherry coke, a nod to the sweet and fruity nuances imparted by the sherry casks.
The palate of 15 STARS is a journey through a landscape of flavors. Prominent notes of plum and cinnamon are immediately apparent, offering a rich and warming experience. The bourbon’s profile is further enhanced by an artful balance of nutty and spiced elements, creating a taste experience that is both complex and pleasing. This careful orchestration of flavors ensures that each sip of 15 STARS is an exploration, revealing new layers and nuances.
The accolades and recognition received by 15 STARS, including the prestigious “Best Bourbon” accolade, are a testament to its exceptional quality and the skill of its creators. This bourbon is not just a drink; it is a celebration of the craft, a spirit that embodies the dedication and passion that go into creating a truly exceptional bourbon.
15 STARS 14 Year Old Timeless Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is more than just a bourbon; it is a sensory journey, an invitation to explore the depths of what American whiskey can offer. For those who seek a bourbon that is both a reflection of tradition and an expression of innovation, 15 STARS stands as a beacon of excellence, a bourbon that is sure to captivate and delight even the most discerning of palates.
For more information on this legendary Bourbon, click here.
1792 Full Proof Straight Bourbon
In the distinguished tapestry of bourbons that have graced our palates, the 1792 Full Proof Straight Bourbon emerges as a bold and captivating masterpiece. This exceptional spirit, which has garnered top honors, including the coveted BEST IN SHOW at the 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, stands as a testament to the innovation and expertise inherent in modern bourbon craftsmanship.
The essence of 1792 Full Proof lies in its unique approach to the filtering process. Eschewing the traditional chill filtration method, this bourbon instead passes only through a plate and frame filter. This deliberate choice in the filtration process is not merely a technical detail; it is a significant factor that contributes to the bourbon’s distinctive character. By forgoing chill filtration, 1792 Full Proof retains a robust proof of 125 at bottling, a testament to its unaltered, full-bodied nature.
The high proof of 1792 Full Proof is not just a number; it’s an embodiment of the bourbon’s bold and rich flavor profile. This unfiltered approach allows the spirit to maintain its full array of flavors and aromas, resulting in a bourbon experience that is both intense and gratifying. The high proof also serves as a canvas, amplifying the intricate flavors and allowing them to unfold in a symphony of taste.
Upon savoring 1792 Full Proof, one is immediately enveloped in a deep and smoky taste, a flavor that is as inviting as it is complex. This smokiness is superbly balanced with the sweetness of vanilla and the rich, luscious notes of caramel. The interplay of these flavors creates a bourbon that is not only bold but also remarkably nuanced, offering a tasting experience that is both sophisticated and satisfying.
The accolades received by 1792 Full Proof are a reflection of its outstanding quality and the craftsmanship behind its creation. This bourbon is not just a beverage; it is a celebration of the art of bourbon-making. It stands as a symbol of how traditional methods can be enhanced through modern techniques to create a spirit that is both rooted in heritage and forward-looking.
For those who seek a bourbon that offers a robust and full-flavored experience, 1792 Full Proof Straight Bourbon is an impeccable choice. It is a bourbon that challenges the senses, invites exploration, and rewards the palate with a depth and richness that is truly exceptional. In every glass of 1792 Full Proof, one finds a story of passion, innovation, and an unyielding commitment to quality – a bourbon that truly embodies the spirit of excellence.
For info about this outstanding bourbon, click here.
Clyde May’s Special Reserve Bourbon
In the distinguished world of fine bourbons, Clyde May’s Special Reserve Bourbon stands as a remarkable testament to the art of distilling. This exquisite spirit, adorned with the prestigious DOUBLE GOLD at the 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, captivates the senses with its unique blend of flavors and aromas, a symphony that resonates with both sophistication and comfort.
Upon first encounter, Clyde May’s Special Reserve Bourbon greets the senses with creamy, vanilla notes that are as inviting as they are enchanting. These notes of vanilla, classic yet timeless, set the stage for a bourbon experience that is both familiar and novel. The nose is further enhanced with hints of cinnamon, adding a warm, spicy undertone that beckons one to delve deeper into the glass.
The palate of Clyde May’s Special Reserve Bourbon is where this spirit truly shines. Each sip glides smoothly across the palate, revealing pronounced tropical fruit notes that are both unexpected and delightful. This burst of tropical fruit adds a dimension of brightness and complexity to the bourbon, making each sip a journey of discovery. The fruitiness is expertly balanced with a touch of pepperiness, creating a harmonious interplay of sweet and spicy that is both intriguing and satisfying.
The experience of savoring Clyde May’s Special Reserve Bourbon culminates in a long, sweet, and fruit-laden finish. This lingering finish leaves a lasting impression, a reminder of the bourbon’s richness and depth. The sweetness is not overwhelming but rather perfectly pitched, providing a fitting end to a truly remarkable tasting experience.
Clyde May’s Special Reserve Bourbon is not just a spirit; it is a celebration of craftsmanship and tradition. It is a bourbon that tells a story with each sip, a story of careful distillation, a dedication to quality, and a passion for flavor. For those who appreciate a bourbon that combines classic notes with unexpected twists, Clyde May’s Special Reserve Bourbon stands as a shining example of what it means to push the boundaries while respecting the roots of bourbon making. This bourbon is more than deserving of its accolades and is sure to be a treasured addition to any collection.
More more info on this unique treat, click here.
Penelope Private Select Bourbon
In the discerning world of bourbon, where individuality and craftsmanship reign supreme, Penelope Bourbon Private Select emerges as a beacon of bespoke quality. This exquisite bourbon, honored with DOUBLE GOLD at the 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, is not just a drink, but a carefully curated experience. Each batch of Penelope Bourbon Private Select is a testament to the art of blending, where individuality and the master blender’s skill come together to create something truly exceptional.
The uniqueness of Penelope Bourbon Private Select lies in its exclusive blend of three bourbon mash bills. This careful selection and blending of different mash bills ensure that each batch is not just special but also distinct. The blend reflects a commitment to quality and a passion for creating a bourbon that is both complex and harmonious. The attention to detail in the blending process is a nod to those who appreciate the nuances and subtleties that make a great bourbon.
Upon greeting the nose, Penelope Bourbon Private Select offers an array of stone fruits and cinnamon. This combination of aromas is both inviting and intriguing, setting the stage for a sensory experience that is rich and multifaceted. The stone fruits provide a sweet, mellow introduction, while the cinnamon adds a warm, spicy undertone, creating an olfactory balance that is both delightful and complex.
As one delves into the palate of Penelope Bourbon Private Select, they are met with a burst of tropical fruits. This flavor profile is both unexpected and refreshing, offering a taste experience that is vibrant and lively. The tropical fruits add a layer of brightness to the bourbon, making each sip a discovery of flavors.
The finish of Penelope Bourbon Private Select is where the bourbon reveals its depth and character. The peppery notes on the finish provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the bourbon, creating a finish that is both bold and engaging. This is followed by sweet, lingering dried fruit notes that leave a lasting impression, a reminder of the bourbon’s richness and complexity.
Penelope Bourbon Private Select is more than just a bourbon; it is a journey through flavors and aromas, a testament to the art of blending. For those who seek a bourbon that is not only of exceptional quality but also offers a unique and individual experience, Penelope Bourbon Private Select stands as a paragon of private selection excellence. It is a bourbon that invites exploration and rewards the senses with each sip, a true gem in the world of fine spirits.
For more info on this delicious bourbon, click here.
Laws Whiskey Bonded Four Grain Bourbon
In the ever-evolving world of bourbon, where tradition and innovation intersect, Laws Whiskey Bonded Four Grain Bourbon stands as a remarkable milestone. This special offering is not just a bourbon; it is a historic landmark, being the first bonded bourbon in Colorado history. Embracing the rigorous standards of the Bottled in Bond Act of 1897, Laws Whiskey Bonded Four Grain Bourbon is a celebration of heritage, a testament to the unwavering dedication to quality and authenticity.
Aged for a minimum of four years in a federally bonded rickhouse, this bourbon is a product of a single season and a single distiller, ensuring consistency and purity in each bottle. This adherence to the Bottled in Bond Act is more than a compliance with regulations; it is a commitment to the craft of bourbon making, a promise to deliver a spirit that is genuine and unadulterated.
Upon first approach, Laws Whiskey Bonded Four Grain Bourbon greets the senses with a sweet and floral bouquet. The nose is a delightful blend of orange blossom, toffee, and apricot jam, creating an aromatic profile that is as inviting as it is intricate. These aromas set the stage for a sensory journey that is both complex and pleasing.
The palate of Laws Whiskey Bonded Four Grain Bourbon is a tapestry of nuanced flavors. Notes of black tea, sandalwood, and dates intertwine to create a taste profile that is both rich and sophisticated. The black tea provides a subtle astringency, perfectly complemented by the earthy warmth of sandalwood and the sweetness of dates. This harmonious blend of flavors ensures that each sip is a discovery, a chance to explore the depth and breadth of this exceptional bourbon.
The finish of Laws Whiskey Bonded Four Grain Bourbon is as memorable as its beginning. Dry and lingering, it leaves a lasting impression, a final note that completes the tasting experience. This finish is not just the end of a sip but an invitation to reflect on the journey, to savor the complexity and craftsmanship that define this bourbon.
Laws Whiskey Bonded Four Grain Bourbon is more than just a spirit; it is a tribute to the enduring legacy of bourbon making. It represents a bridge between the past and the present, a bourbon that honors tradition while embracing the possibilities of the future. For those who appreciate a bourbon that is steeped in history and crafted with passion, Laws Whiskey Bonded Four Grain Bourbon stands as a beacon of excellence, a bourbon that is truly in a class of its own.
For more info on this extraordinary bourbon, click here.
Doc Whiskey Single Barrel Cask Strength Bourbon
In the nuanced world of bourbon, where individuality and strength are celebrated, Doc Whiskey Single Barrel Cask Strength Bourbon emerges as a distinct and memorable contender. This bourbon, which has garnered the prestigious DOUBLE GOLD at the 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, is a testament to the singular beauty and complexity that a single barrel can produce. Each barrel of Doc Whiskey is a unique entity, offering its own distinct strength and alcohol by volume percentage, a feature that elevates it from mere drink to a singular expression of the distiller’s art.
The experience of Doc Whiskey begins with its aroma. Vanilla notes rise to greet the senses, providing a warm and inviting introduction to the spirit. This vanilla on the nose is accompanied by a noticeable nasal burn, a reminder of the bourbon’s cask strength nature and a nod to those who appreciate a bourbon with a robust character.
Upon savoring, Doc Whiskey unfolds on the palate with a semi-sweet richness. Notes of creamy vanilla intermingle with the essence of dried fruit, creating a flavor profile that is both comforting and complex. This semi-sweetness is a perfect balance, providing just enough sweetness to complement the natural strength of the bourbon.
The finish of Doc Whiskey is as remarkable as its beginning. The flavors of vanilla and dried fruit continue through, providing a lingering finish that invites contemplation. This prolonged finish is not only a testament to the bourbon’s quality but also an opportunity to savor the unique characteristics of this single barrel cask strength bourbon.
Doc Whiskey Single Barrel Cask Strength Bourbon is not just a bourbon; it is an exploration of the unique potential that each barrel holds. For those who seek a bourbon that is both a reflection of the distiller’s skill and a celebration of the individuality inherent in single barrel releases, Doc Whiskey stands as a shining example. It is a bourbon that captivates and engages, a distinguished addition to the world of fine spirits that is sure to delight those who appreciate a bourbon with character and depth.
For more info on this fantastic bourbon, click here.
Bourbon Brilliance: 2024’s Most Desirable Bottles
As we reflect upon the exceptional array of bourbons set to define the year 2024, it’s clear that each selection is not just a testament to superior distilling but also a narrative in itself, rich in heritage and innovation. These bourbons represent the zenith of craftsmanship in the world of spirits.
As we conclude, it’s clear that the bourbons of 2024 are more than just spirits; they are embodiments of artistry, each telling a unique story and contributing to the rich tapestry of the bourbon industry. These top 10 bourbons not only offer a glimpse into the future of bourbon but also pay homage to the deep-rooted traditions and innovations that continue to shape this beloved spirit. Here’s to a year rich with exceptional bourbons, each waiting to be discovered, savored, and celebrated.
