Last Updated on March 2, 2024 by Lydia Martin
Bourbon gets better as it ages as barrel aging gives identity and character to the distilled spirit.
But not all older bourbon tastes great, especially those aged past its sweet spot.
If you are interested in 15-year-old bourbons, we curated a list of the best 15 year bourbons to make sure your money will not go down the drain. Keep reading.
Top 10 15-Year Bourbon To Try
10. Barrell Craft Spirits 15 Year
Average Price: Roughly $249.99 (Drizly)
Alcohol Content: 52.55%
Why We Like It:
Barrel Craft Spirits 15 Year is a bourbon whiskey distilled from corn, rye, and malted barley and aged in newly charred oak barrels for at least 15 years.
As we sip it neat, the perfect union of barrel and grain is pleasing to the nose and palate.
The oaky, caramel, honey, and vanilla are present and reveal the lushness of the grains as it goes down smoothly.
9. Pappy Van Winkle 15
Average Price: Roughly $1999 (Drizly)
Alcohol Content: 53.5%
Why We Like It:
More than the hype, Pappy Van Winkle 15 is one of the best 15-year-old bourbons in circulation.
Pappy Van Winkle 15 is a smooth and sweet bourbon whiskey made using the wheated mash bill of Buffalo Trace [1].
The sweet and elegant aroma filled with caramel, corn, and vanilla is remarkable. The big flavor of oak, leather, and complex fruitiness will tickle your taste buds.
8. King of Kentucky Bourbon (1st Release)
Average Price: Roughly $2147.50 (Drizly)
MSRP: $249.99
Alcohol Content: 62.5%-67.5%
Why We Like It:
King of Kentucky Bourbon is Brown-Forman’s rare and extremely high-proof 15-year-old bourbon whiskey. It is made from 79% corn, 11% rye, and 10% malted barley [2].
This brand demonstrates Brown-Forman’s commitment to and expertise in the growing American whiskey category,
– Chris Morris, Master Distiller
It can be very expensive and hard to find, but the layers of dark caramel, fig, vanilla, chocolate, and caramelized orange will blow your mind.
7. Old Soul Bourbon, Aged 15 Years
Average Price: Roughly $139.99 (Drizly)
Alcohol Content: 51%
Why We Like It:
The Old Soul Bourbon Aged 15 Years is crafted using 78.5% corn, 8.5% malted barley, and 13% rye.
It comes in the barrel at 125 proof and goes out at 102 proof which is a huge drop for 15 years of aging.
After resting for around 10 minutes in a Glencairn, the aroma of peanut, rich toffee, cedar, maple, and leather are very noticeable.
It is oak-forward with some caramel and honey sweetness.
6. Old Bones 15
Average Price: Roughly $159.99 (Total Wine)
Alcohol Content: 53.5%
Why We Like It:
Old Bones 15 is a Kentucky bourbon whiskey distilled from 78.5% corn, 13% rye, and 8.5% malted barley.
It is well-aged in barrels, producing balanced, high-proof, and full-flavored bourbon whiskey.
The elegant bourbon has subtle hints of ripe cherries and rose petals that bring a satisfying sensation to the palate.
We are impressed with its tremendous balance and gentle alcohol kick.
5. Widow Jane 15
Average Price: Roughly $269.99 (Drilzy)
Alcohol Content: 49.5%
Why We Like It:
Widow Jane 15 is the 2021 release of The Vault, composed of 15-17-year-old bourbons.
We get some aromas of wintergreen, tobacco, oak, vanilla, and leather on the nose.
We like the bourbon whiskey’s rich brown sugar, cocoa, and mint flavor profile. We enjoyed drinking it on the rocks, but it also drinks nicely without ice.
In addition, we noticed some dark fruit, black pepper, honey, and nutmeg notes at the backend.
4. Sam Houston 15
Average Price: Roughly $144.99 (Total Wine)
Alcohol Content: 51.5%
Why We Like It:
Sam Houston 15 embodies the characteristic of an ultra-premium bourbon whiskey. It offers an oaky and chocolatey mouthfeel with some overripe fruit notes.
The dark amber whiskey has deep notes of toasted sugar, aged vanilla cream, cherry, and some sweet tobacco.
Our palate is coated with warm flavors of spicy cinnamon and baking spice.
3. IW Harper 15
Average Price: Roughly $99.99 (Drizly)
Alcohol Content: 43%
Why We Like It:
Stored in a show-stopping decanter, IW Harper 15 is more than just a home bar display.
It offers a rich aroma and taste of an elegant and well-balanced bourbon whiskey.
The warmth and sweetness upfront of the bourbon whiskey is like a Kentucky hug.
The notes of raisin, spices, caramel, and vanilla are evident in every sip and leave a lasting and enjoyable mouthfeel.
2. Knob Creek 15
Average Price: Roughly $131.99
Alcohol Content: 50%
Why We Like It:
Knob Creek 15 is a crowd-favorite, and nobody is surprised because it is truly an amazing 15-year-old bourbon.
It is a limited edition bottle and the oldest age-statement bottle from the brand [3].
The oak-forward aroma and taste are expected, but what surprises us more is the pronounced caramelized brown sugar, leather, and toffee palate profile.
With a splash of water, the subtle notes of cherry, cinnamon, and white florals shine through.
1. Calumet 15
Average Price: Roughly $134.99 (Total Wine)
Alcohol Content: 52.5%
Why We Like It:
For a 15-year-old bourbon, Calumet 15 is such a steal for its great price point. We were greeted with wood and oak char notes upon uncorking the bottle.
The deep oak and cherry notes are very evident on the nose and palate. Dark fruit, baking spice, toasted cereal, and honey are on the side.
It has a nice mouthfeel, and the fruit-forward flavors mingle with the peppery spice and mint.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can 15-year-old bourbons be sipped neat?
Yes, 15-year-old bourbons are best to sip neat. You will taste and appreciate more of its flavor profile if you slowly sip it than with ice or in cocktails.
What 15-year-old bourbon is good value for money?
Calumet 15 is a good value for money 15-year-old bourbon. The age and tasting notes confidently command its premium price.
Why do some 15-year-old bourbons taste great?
Some 15-year-old bourbons taste great because it absorbs the flavors of the barrel and improves their tasting notes [4].
Unfortunately, some 15-year-olds turn too oaky and lose complexity as the temperature and location of barrels also affect the aging process of the bourbon.
What is the No 1 bourbon in the world?
Determining the “No 1 bourbon in the world” is subjective and often depends on individual taste preferences and expert opinions.
However, some widely acclaimed bourbons, such as Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve, Buffalo Trace, and Maker’s Mark, are often considered among the best, with enthusiasts and critics praising their exceptional quality and unique flavor profiles.
What is the most delicious bourbon?
The title of the “most delicious bourbon” is highly subjective, as taste preferences vary widely. Some bourbons celebrated for their delightful flavors include Woodford Reserve, Blanton’s Single Barrel, and Eagle Rare.
Each of these bourbons offers a distinct combination of notes, ranging from rich caramel and vanilla to complex spice, providing a diverse range of options for those seeking a delicious sipping experience.
What is the smoothest bourbon?
Determining the smoothest bourbon is a matter of personal taste, but bourbons known for their smoothness often include brands like Basil Hayden’s, Michter’s, and W.L. Weller.
These bourbons are often praised for their balanced and mellow profiles, offering a smooth and enjoyable drinking experience, especially for those who appreciate a more refined and easy-to-sip whiskey.
How much is Sam Houston 15 year bourbon?
As pricing can vary based on location, availability, and market demand, the cost of Sam Houston 15-year bourbon is subject to fluctuation.
It’s advisable to check with local retailers or online platforms to get the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information for this specific bourbon.
Who is the king of bourbon?
There isn’t a universally recognized “king of bourbon,” as the bourbon industry is filled with a rich tapestry of renowned distilleries and iconic brands.
However, figures like Booker Noe of Jim Beam, often referred to as a “Bourbon Legend,” and Pappy Van Winkle, whose Family Reserve bourbons are highly sought after, hold significant influence in shaping the bourbon landscape.
The title of the “king of bourbon” remains a subjective designation, with various distilleries and master distillers contributing to the legacy and diversity of this beloved American spirit.
What bourbon is John Wick drinking?
In the iconic film series John Wick, the titular character, played by Keanu Reeves, is frequently seen drinking Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon.
This choice of bourbon adds a touch of sophistication to the character, as Blanton’s is renowned for its exceptional quality and distinctively shaped bottle, making it a fitting choice for the stylish and discerning assassin.
What is a premium bourbon?
A premium bourbon typically refers to a high-quality, well-crafted bourbon that often commands a higher price due to factors such as the use of top-tier ingredients, meticulous production processes, and extended aging periods.
These bourbons often exhibit complex flavor profiles, smoothness, and a level of craftsmanship that sets them apart from more standard offerings, providing a luxurious and indulgent experience for whiskey enthusiasts.
Do expensive bourbons taste better?
The taste of bourbon is a subjective experience, and while some expensive bourbons are celebrated for their intricate flavors and exceptional quality, it does not necessarily mean they will be universally preferred.
Factors like personal taste preferences, individual palates, and the desire for rare or limited-edition releases contribute to the perception of taste.
Some may find that certain expensive bourbons offer a more nuanced and refined drinking experience, while others may discover affordable options that align perfectly with their preferences.
Does Jack Daniels qualify as bourbon?
No, Jack Daniel’s does not qualify as bourbon. Jack Daniel’s is a Tennessee whiskey, and although it shares some characteristics with bourbon, such as being made primarily from corn, it undergoes an additional charcoal filtering process known as the Lincoln County Process.
This distinction places Jack Daniel’s in the category of Tennessee whiskey rather than bourbon, showcasing the importance of regional production methods in the classification of American whiskies.
Is it OK to drink bourbon straight?
Yes, it is absolutely acceptable to drink bourbon straight. In fact, many bourbon enthusiasts prefer to enjoy this spirit neat to fully appreciate its flavors and aromas.
Drinking bourbon straight allows the nuances of the whiskey to shine without the dilution or interference of mixers.
Whether sipped slowly or savored over time, enjoying bourbon straight provides a pure and unadulterated experience for those who appreciate the complexity and craftsmanship of this classic American spirit.
Final Verdict: Best 15 Year Bourbon
Longer aging does not always apply to bourbon because too much aging can cause the bourbon whiskey to lose its complexity.
Knob Creek 15, IW Harper, and Widow Jane 15 are great bottles of 15-year-old bourbon with amazing tasting notes.
But if you want the best 15-year bourbon, you will not go wrong with a bottle of Calumet 15- price and palate profile-wise.
References:
- The Complete Guide to Every Buffalo Trace Whiskey (Bourbon, Rye and More)
- The Company Behind Jack Daniel’s Just Released a Rare Pair of Powerful Bourbons
- Knob Creek Caps off a String of 2020 Releases With Its Oldest Bourbon Ever
- The Effects of Aging on Liquor
