Last Updated on February 24, 2024 by Lydia Martin
Colorado is famous for its gorgeous landscapes, high plains, plateaus, water bodies, and craft beers.
But most people don’t realize that the state’s climate and elevation create perfect conditions for aging bourbon.
Colorado’s distilleries are already on the move and have created some of the finest (and rare) spirits today.
So, if you want to find the best Colorado bourbon, read on.
10 Best Colorado Bourbon You Need To Try
10. Breckenridge Bourbon Whiskey
Average Price: around $45.14 per 750 ml
Alcohol Content: 43% ABV
Why We Like It: The Breckenridge bourbon whiskey is an award-winning, high-rye bourbon whiskey.
This whiskey is aged for a minimum of three (3) years in charred, new American oak barrels, carefully blended to reveal its unique qualities.
We like its pronounced butterscotch aromas, dry cacao, candied orange and apple, and brown sugar flavors with lingering notes of white pepper and vanilla.
9. Peach Street Colorado Straight Bourbon
Average Price: $58 per 750 ml
Alcohol Content: 40% ABV
Why We Like It: Peach Street Colorado straight bourbon is Colorado’s first legal bourbon.
This Colorado straight bourbon from Peach Street is made with 100% locally sourced ingredients, including rye, two-row malted barley, and their legendary sweet corn of Olathe.
The spirit comes in an elegant bottle, so you won’t be disappointed as it offers a well-balanced taste on your palate with strong notes of vanilla.
8. Leopold Bros. Bottled in Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Average Price: $60 per 750 ml
Alcohol Content: 50% ABV
Why We Like It: If you think all bourbons are the same, well, Leopold Bros. bottled-in-bond is not your usual straight bourbon whiskey.
Aside from the unusual mashbill that includes 21% malted barley, the fermentation process uses open wooden tanks.
It also uses both cultured and wild yeast strains, not to mention the dunnage-style warehouse.
The result is an interesting burst of complex flavors, unlike most bourbons. The spirit proves that being different can be good too.
7. 291 Small Batch Colorado Bourbon Whiskey
Average Price: $74.99 per 750 ml MSRP
Alcohol Content: 50% ABV
Why We Like It: Rugged, refined, and rebellious – that’s how they quote this small batch from 291.
Inspired by the culture of the wild west, 291 wants to make a “handmade, the Colorado way” whiskey.
This whiskey offers profound vanilla and brown sugar on the nose, citrusy and hoppy notes on the palate, and a warm and subtly sweet finish.
6. Woody Creek Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Average Price: $45 per 750 ml MSRP
Alcohol Content: 45% ABV
Why We Like It: Distilled in custom CARL stills, Woody Creek created a distinctive and exceptional straight bourbon whiskey.
It is made with 100% Colorado-grown grains and aged for a minimum of four years in new, deep charred oak barrels.
Woody Creek Colorado straight bourbon has a classic great oak note on the nose, the right amount of spiciness on the palate accompanied by hints of caramel, honey, and cinnamon.
5. Laws Four Grain Straight Bourbon Bonded Whiskey
Average Price: $63 per 750 ml
Alcohol Content: 50% ABV
Why We Like It: Home of the first bonded bourbon in Colorado, Laws Four Grain bonded series has an 8-year-old expression already available.
Laws Four grains have a mash bill of 60% corn, 20% wheat, 10% rye, and 10% malted barley.
Laws Four Grains bonded series is a great sipper and will continue to be even better as they continue to push their whiskey into a higher edge of maturation.
4. Breckinridge Rum Cask Finish Bourbon Whiskey
Average Price: $59 per 750 ml
Alcohol Content: 45% ABV
Why We Like It: Breckinridge’s rum cask finish bourbon whiskey is a unique and delicious spirit, perfect for sipping neat or in cocktails.
The rum cask finish imparts a beautiful sweetness and complexity to the bourbon, making it an incredibly enjoyable drink.
“There is no bad whiskey. There are only some whiskeys that aren’t as good as others.”
– Raymond Chandler, Novelist, and Screenwriter
This bourbon has a high rye mash bill but is surprisingly smooth and sweet, with only minimal spice from the rye.
It has tropical vibes, perfect for tropical-themed cocktails.
3. Laws Four Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Average Price: $89.99 per 750 ml MSRP
Alcohol Content: 56% ABV (varies depending on batch)
Why We Like It: This Four Grain straight bourbon whiskey is bottled at Cask Strength, providing a noteworthy character and more profound and concentrated flavors.
It comes forward at high proof, aged in a minimum of 3 years in new oak barrels.
It has a mash bill of 20% heirloom wheat, 60% corn, 10% heirloom malted barley, and 10% heirloom rye.
2. Mystic Mountain Outlaw Legend Bourbon Whiskey
Average Price: $45 per 750 ml
Alcohol Content: 48% ABV
Why We Like It: Aged at least three years and bottled at 96 proof, Mystic Mountain Outlaw Legend bourbon is an extremely smooth and satisfying spirit.
This bourbon whiskey features a perfected family recipe that dates back to the late 1800s. It has consistent notes of caramel, chocolate, and allspice with a nice long finish.
Inspired by the legendary outlaws of the old west, Mystic Mountain is a must-have for every whiskey lover.
1. Old Elk Blended Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Average Price: around $45.63 – $77.43 per 750 ml MSRP
Alcohol Content: 44% ABV
Why We Like It: Old Elk Blended straight bourbon whiskey is a high malted barley whiskey.
It uses four times more malted barley [1] than most traditional bourbon recipes.
Its non-traditional high-malted recipe provides sweet, light components combined with clove spiciness from its rye content.
This bourbon whiskey has a smooth and lasting flavor of almond, maple syrup, chocolate, deep wood, raw bran, and coconut.
*Average prices are based on Drizly online unless otherwise tagged as MSRP. Prices may vary in local liquor shops.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can bourbon be made in Colorado?
Yes, bourbon can be legally produced in Colorado, just like in any other state in the United States.
To be classified as bourbon, the whiskey must meet specific legal requirements set by the U.S. government, including being made from a grain mixture that is at least 51% corn, aged in new charred oak barrels, distilled to no more than 160 proof, and bottled at a minimum of 80 proof.
As long as these criteria are met, bourbon can be produced anywhere within the United States, including Colorado.
Is Colorado known for whiskey?
Yes, Colorado has gained recognition for its growing whiskey industry in recent years. While traditionally known for its craft beer scene, Colorado has seen a surge in craft distilleries producing a variety of whiskeys, including bourbon, rye, and single malt.
The state’s unique climate and terroir offer distillers an opportunity to experiment with different aging techniques and flavor profiles, contributing to the diversity and quality of Colorado whiskey.
Are there specific brands known for producing the best Colorado bourbon?
Several distilleries in Colorado have gained acclaim for their bourbon offerings. Some of the notable brands known for producing high-quality Colorado bourbon include Laws Whiskey House, Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey, Breckenridge Distillery, and Woody Creek Distillers, among others.
These distilleries focus on using locally sourced grains, innovative aging methods, and traditional craftsmanship to create distinctive and flavorful bourbons that showcase the unique terroir of Colorado.
How does Colorado bourbon differ from bourbon produced in other regions?
Colorado bourbon may differ from bourbon produced in other regions due to several factors, including climate, altitude, and local ingredients. Colorado’s high altitude and dry climate can accelerate the aging process of whiskey, leading to quicker maturation and intensified flavor development.
Additionally, the use of local grains and water sources can impart unique flavors and characteristics to Colorado bourbon, giving it a distinct regional identity.
Furthermore, Colorado distillers often embrace innovation and experimentation, incorporating non-traditional aging techniques and barrel finishes to create bourbons with unconventional flavor profiles.
Overall, while Colorado bourbon adheres to the same legal requirements as bourbon produced in other regions, its production methods, ingredients, and environmental influences contribute to its distinctive and diverse character.
What makes Colorado bourbon popular among whiskey enthusiasts?
Colorado bourbon’s popularity stems from its innovative approach to bourbon-making, commitment to quality, and the use of local ingredients.
Can I visit distilleries in Colorado to learn more about their bourbon production?
Yes, many distilleries in Colorado offer tours and tastings where visitors can learn about the bourbon-making process and sample different expressions.
Can Colorado bourbon be used in cocktails?
Yes, Colorado bourbon can be used in a variety of cocktails, from classic bourbon cocktails like the Old Fashioned and Manhattan to innovative creations crafted by mixologists.
Key Takeaways
Colorado is one of the best places to produce alcoholic beverages because of its high altitude, dry climate, rich farmlands, and abundant spring water.
A true Colorado whiskey is rich, complex, and flavorful.
Due to the high angel’s share that makes their spirits potent, intense, and more concentrated – Colorado bourbons are mostly high-proof but are well-balanced.
Colorado offers a variety of wonderful spirits, and it can be hard to choose just one.
However, if you’re looking for the best bourbon in Colorado, be sure to try one in the list above. Cheers!
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