Bourbon is a type of American whiskey that has a rich history and a distinct flavor profile. High end bourbons are known for their superior quality, complex flavors, and smooth finishes. In this complete guide, we will explore what makes a good high end bourbon and introduce some of the top brands and expressions in the market.
What Makes a Bourbon “High End”?
1. Quality Ingredients:
High end bourbons start with the finest ingredients. Corn is the primary grain used, typically making up at least 51% of the mash bill. Rye and malted barley are also common, adding their own unique flavors and characteristics to the final product2.
2. Craftsmanship:
The art of bourbon-making involves careful attention to detail at every step of the process. From milling the grains to fermenting the mash, distilling the spirit, and aging it in charred oak barrels, skilled distillers use traditional techniques and modern innovations to create a spirit of exceptional quality.
3. Aging Process:
One of the key factors that sets high end bourbons apart is the aging process. These bourbons are often aged for longer periods, allowing them to develop rich, complex flavors and a smooth, mellow texture. The interaction between the spirit and the charred oak barrels imparts notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and spice, which are highly prized by bourbon enthusiasts.
4. Limited Production:
Many high end bourbons are produced in limited quantities, making them more exclusive and sought-after. Limited edition releases, single barrel selections, and small batch productions add to the allure and collectability of these premium spirits.
5. Brand Reputation:
Established and respected brands with a long history of producing high quality bourbons are often associated with the high end market. These brands have built a reputation for consistency, craftsmanship, and innovation, and their products are highly regarded by connoisseurs and collectors alike.
Top High End Bourbon Brands and Expressions
1. Pappy Van Winkle
Overview: Pappy Van Winkle is often considered the epitome of luxury bourbon. Known for its scarcity and high demand, this brand offers a range of meticulously crafted bourbons that are aged to perfection.
Flavor Profile: The bourbons from Pappy Van Winkle are characterized by their rich, complex flavors. They typically exhibit notes of dark fruit, caramel, vanilla, and a hint of spice. The long aging process results in a smooth, velvety texture that coats the palate and leaves a lingering, satisfying finish.
Price Range: Pappy Van Winkle bourbons are among the most expensive on the market, with prices ranging from several hundred to over a thousand dollars per bottle, depending on the age and expression.
2. Michter’s US1 Toasted Barrel Finish Bourbon
Overview: Michter’s is a highly respected distillery known for its innovative approach to bourbon-making. The US1 Toasted Barrel Finish Bourbon is a standout expression that takes bourbon to a new level of complexity.
Flavor Profile:This bourbon undergoes an additional aging period in a custom-made toasted barrel, which imparts unique and distinct flavors. It features persistent notes of campfire and cinnamon, along with hints of pecan and candied fruit. The finish is long and lingering, with flavors of vanilla and marshmallows adding a touch of sweetness.
Price Range: With an average price of roughly $219.99, it is a premium bourbon that offers a unique tasting experience for those willing to invest in a high-quality spirit.
3. Woodford Reserve
Overview:Woodford Reserve is a well-known and highly regarded bourbon brand with a long history dating back to 1812. The distillery offers a range of expressions that are popular among both beginners and experienced bourbon drinkers.
Flavor Profile: The classic Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select has a balanced flavor profile, with notes of sweet vanilla, cinnamon, clove, dark berries, and white pepper. It is smooth and mellow, making it an excellent choice for sipping neat or on the rocks. The Woodford Reserve Double Oaked is another highly recommended expression, known for its smooth, woody flavor and mellow spice notes.
Price Range: Woodford Reserve bourbons are available at various price points, with the Distiller’s Select typically priced around $35.42, while the Double Oaked may be slightly more expensive.
4. Four Roses
Overview: Four Roses is a historic bourbon brand with a reputation for producing high-quality spirits. Their bourbons are known for their smoothness and fruit-forward flavor profiles.
Flavor Profile:The Four Roses Single Barrel is an excellent entry point into the world of high end bourbons. It offers a smooth and approachable flavor, with notes of ripe fruit, caramel, and a hint of spice. The Four Roses Small Batch Barrel Limited Edition is a more premium offering, featuring bright notes of crisp green apples, apricot, and sweet cherry, along with elegantly balanced flavors of fresh nutmeg, delicate ripe fruits, and spiced vanilla.
Price Range: The Four Roses Single Barrel is priced at around £41.57, while the Small Batch Barrel Limited Edition is approximately $245.99.
5. Weller Antique 107 Bourbon
Overview: Weller Antique 107 is a wheated bourbon produced by the Buffalo Trace Distillery. It is highly regarded for its balanced palate and full-bodied flavor.
Flavor Profile: This bourbon is bottled at 107 proof, offering a bold and complex taste. It is rich in butterscotch, caramel, and vanilla tones, with a surprisingly prominent oak flavor that adds depth and character to the overall profile.
Price Range: With an average price of roughly $129.99, it is a popular choice among bourbon lovers looking for a high-quality wheated bourbon.
6. Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon
Overview: Elijah Craig is a well-known name in the world of bourbon, and their barrel proof expression is a favorite among enthusiasts. This bourbon is non-chill filtered, uncut, and straight from the barrel, offering a pure and unadulterated taste experience.
Flavor Profile: It has a rich and complex flavor profile, with notes of rye, heath bar, oak, and leather on the nose. On the palate, it is full of cinnamon candies, roasted vanilla beans, rye, and chocolate, providing a bold and intense flavor that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning bourbon drinker.
Price Range: Priced at around $86.99, it offers excellent value for a barrel proof bourbon of this quality.
7. Knob Creek Limited Edition Batch
Overview: Knob Creek is a brand known for its robust and full-flavored bourbons. The Limited Edition Batch #2 is a special release that has been patiently aged in charred oak barrels for an additional 14 years, resulting in a unique and complex flavor profile.
Flavor Profile: This bourbon features a robust oak taste, complemented by layered caramel and a smooth vanilla flavor. The extended aging process gives it a depth and smoothness that is highly prized by bourbon connoisseurs.
Price Range: It is priced at around $159.99, making it a premium offering for those looking for a special and limited-edition bourbon.
8. Garrison Brothers Cowboy Bourbon
Overview: Garrison Brothers is a Texas-based distillery known for producing high-quality, small batch bourbons. The Cowboy Bourbon is a limited release that is highly sought-after by collectors and enthusiasts.
Flavor Profile: This unfiltered, uncut bourbon straight from the barrel is sweet, but not overpowering. It has an inviting aroma of full grain leather, sweet pipe tobacco, and warm raspberry, with a flavor profile that is both rich and complex.
Price Range:With an average price of roughly $241.99, it is a premium bourbon that offers a unique taste of Texas-style bourbon-making.
See Also: Is Absolut Vodka Gluten-Free?
How to Enjoy High End Bourbon
1. Neat:
One of the best ways to enjoy a high end bourbon is to drink it neat, without any added mixers or ice. This allows you to fully appreciate the complex flavors and smooth texture of the spirit. Pour a small amount into a tulip-shaped glass and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the aromas to develop. Then, take small sips and let the bourbon coat your palate, noting the different flavors and sensations.
2. On the Rocks:
If you prefer a slightly chilled drink, you can enjoy high end bourbon on the rocks. Add a few large ice cubes to a rocks glass and pour the bourbon over them. The ice will slowly dilute the bourbon, releasing more of its flavors and making it a bit more refreshing.
3. In a Cocktail:
High end bourbons also make excellent ingredients in cocktails. Classic bourbon cocktails such as the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, and Boulevardier showcase the rich flavors of bourbon and can be customized with different bitters, vermouths, and other modifiers to create a unique and delicious drink. Experiment with different recipes and find the combination that suits your taste.
Storing and Aging High End Bourbon
1. Storage Conditions:
To preserve the quality of your high end bourbon, it is important to store it properly. Keep the bottles in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid storing them in areas with high humidity or temperature fluctuations, as these can affect the flavor and quality of the spirit.
2. Aging Potential:
While most high end bourbons are already aged to perfection by the distiller, some enthusiasts may choose to further age their bottles at home. This can be a fun and rewarding experiment, but it is important to note that not all bourbons will benefit from additional aging. Some bourbons may reach their peak flavor after a certain period of time and may not improve with further aging. It is recommended to do some research and consult with experts or experienced collectors before attempting to age your own bourbon.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a good high end bourbon is characterized by its quality ingredients, craftsmanship, aging process, limited production, and brand reputation. The top brands and expressions mentioned in this guide offer a wide range of flavors and experiences, from rich and complex to smooth and approachable. Whether you prefer to drink your bourbon neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, there is a high end bourbon out there to suit your taste. Remember to enjoy bourbon in moderation and savor the unique flavors and aromas that these premium spirits have to offer.
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