Last Updated on April 4, 2024 by Lydia Martin
In the liquor world, many stores provide you access to various spirits. And as these shops continue to increase over time, it gets more difficult to find which store to buy your favorite bourbon whiskey.
Fortunately, we found the best liquor stores for bourbon. Check them out here.
Top 10 Liquor Stores For Bourbon
10. Warehouse Liquors
Address: 634 South Wabash Avenue, Chicago, IL
Contact Number: (312) 663-1850
Why It’s Worth The Visit: This shop compiled a good selection of bourbon spirits and whiskeys in the South Loop Chicago. Their inventory is meticulously curated, and this store picks every single barrel privately, which is the core of their store.
Also, you’ll love their friendly staff, who are flavor geeks. They can help you find bottles and recommend the best possible drink according to your liking.
9. Liquor Park
Address: 1937 West North Avenue Chicago, IL
Contact Number: (773) 360-5536
Why It’s Worth The Visit: Situated in West North Chicago, Liquor Park is passionate about bringing the best-crafted beverages.
With 20 years of serving in the alcohol industry, they’ve curated a good selection of unique, cult-favorite beers and world-class spirits you can’t easily find anywhere else like Eagle Rare bourbon.
Also, they give killer recommendations that suit your budget, palate, and event.
8. Bourbon Liquor Store
Address: 210 W Center St Bourbon IN
Contact Number: (574) 363-1127
Why It’s Worth The Visit: Bourbon Liquor Store features the largest selection of whiskey and many other spirits at reasonable prices.
They partnered with the best-licensed retailers to offer you various brands of whiskey like Maker’s Mark, Four Roses Single Barrel, Barrell Dovetail, Buffalo Trace, Woodford Reserve, and more at a lesser price.
Regardless of your location, you can purchase your favorite bourbon and make your favorite cocktail in the comfort of your home. You can shop online through their online store and get a free gift note as a special offering.
7. Uncork It!
Address: 393 East Illinois Street Chicago, IL
Contact Number: (312) 321-9400
Why It’s Worth The Visit: Uncork It! is worth visiting as there are diverse spirits options. You can easily find what you’re looking for in their categories: Current Specials, New Arrivals, and Tasting & Events.
They offer summer drinks to add summertime flavor to your recipes. What’s more interesting is that you can use a 10% OFF coupon if you’re a new customer when you buy online.
6. Gaslight Wines & Spirits
Address: 4177 Summer Ave, Memphis, TN
Contact Number: (901) 452-8743
Why It’s Worth The Visit: Spirit lovers love Gaslight Wines & Spirits not only because of the store-picked spirits but also the knowledgeable and friendly staff.
They can sample several spirits while giving customers hints of new bottle releases. They have a good selection of bourbons like Eagle Rare, Jim Beam, and more.
5. Busters
Address: 191 S Highland St. Memphis TN
Contact Number: (901) 458-0929
Why It’s Worth The Visit: Buster’s shelf does not only offer liquor, beer, etc. You can find food and drinking accessories, too. You can purchase any bourbon drink from Buster’s Barrel Picks like Blue Note bourbon, Bulleit Single Barrel, George Dickel, etc.
Typically, you can find food and booze in line with your tasting preferences from their New Arrivals, Top-Rated, and On-sale products.
Though locals of Memphis, Tennessee, are their frequent customers, drinkers from other locations have visited this store to search for the best spirit possible.
4. Corks & Bottles
Address: 2010 Birch Road 105 Chula Vista, CA
Contact Number: (858) 360-7658
Why It’s Worth The Visit: If you are searching for a bottle of aged bourbon or your favorite craft brew, we suggest checking out this shop in Chula Vista, CA.
You can expect a fantastic selection of tequila, wine, and whiskey. They mostly have the liquor that everybody would need – stored properly on their shelf.
Whether you want to award yourself after a long work week or celebrate your friend’s first out-of-the-country trip, they may have the spirit to accompany you to celebrate! But what’s a store-pick bourbon?
3. Total Wine
Address: Location across 27 US States
Contact Number: (855) 328-9463
Why It’s Worth The Visit: This is America’s superstore, the largest fine wine retailer. Though they focus more on wines, they offer other distilled spirits [1] like beers, bourbons, and Scotch (from local to international brands).
The company owner, the Trone brothers, commits to providing you with the best wine selection – emphasizing fine wines.
Also, they built a special relationship with various distilleries like Heaven Hill distillery in Louisville – the largest single-site distillery in American whiskey. This is to bring the drinks to you at a discounted price.
Read: How To Find Allocated Bourbon
2. Kirby Wines & Liquors
Address: 2865 Kirby Road Memphis, TN 38119
Contact Number: (901) 756-1993
Why It’s Worth The Visit: Kirby is worth visiting in-store or online as they sell various products from wines, spirits, beers, and gifts and accessories. For bourbon, Kirby sells light proof to strong spirits (160 to 190 proof).
When buying online, you can filter your search depending on your location – allowing you to choose from the available products. The owner, Woodard, ensures to offer you a wide range of inventory from different distilleries to meet your demand.
Read: How Much Liquor Stores Make
1. State Line Liquors
Address: 1610 Elkton Road Elkton MD
Contact Number: 1-800-446-9463
Why It’s Worth The Visit: State Line Liquors can be the go-to place for fine wines, specialty beers, and great spirits. Aside from their incredible selection of beers and spirits, they have an unbeatable service level with exceptional staff expertise.
They organize tasting events to help you familiarize their shop’s products. It includes Small Batch [2], Kentucky Vintage, Johnny Drum, Legent, Barrel Bomb, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where is the best bourbon made?
Bourbon, a type of American whiskey, can be produced anywhere in the United States, but it is most commonly associated with the state of Kentucky. Kentucky’s climate, limestone-rich water, and long history of bourbon production have contributed to its reputation as the heartland of bourbon.
Within Kentucky, several regions are particularly renowned for bourbon production, including Bardstown, Lexington, and Louisville. These areas are home to many iconic bourbon distilleries, such as Buffalo Trace, Woodford Reserve, and Maker’s Mark, which have played a significant role in shaping the bourbon industry.
While Kentucky is widely regarded as the epicenter of bourbon production, exceptional bourbon can also be found in other states such as Tennessee, Indiana, and Texas. Each region brings its own unique characteristics to the bourbon-making process, resulting in a diverse range of flavors and styles across the United States.
How do you pick a good bottle of bourbon?
Choosing a good bottle of bourbon can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience, but it often requires some knowledge and consideration of personal preferences. Here are some tips for selecting a quality bottle of bourbon:
Consider your budget: Bourbon comes in a wide range of prices, from affordable options to ultra-premium bottles. Determine your budget beforehand to narrow down your options and focus on bottles within your price range.
Know your preferences: Bourbon can vary in flavor profile, ranging from sweet and caramel-forward to spicy and oak-driven. Consider your taste preferences and whether you prefer a smoother, mellow bourbon or a more robust and complex one.
Research the distillery: Learn about the distillery behind the bourbon and its reputation for quality and craftsmanship. Some distilleries have long-standing traditions and iconic brands that are highly regarded in the bourbon community.
Check the age statement: Bourbon aged for longer periods typically develops more complexity and depth of flavor. Look for age statements on the bottle to see how long the bourbon has been aged in oak barrels.
Read reviews: Consult expert reviews, online forums, and recommendations from friends or whiskey enthusiasts to gain insights into the flavor profile and quality of specific bourbons.
Visit a tasting room: If possible, visit a whiskey tasting room or attend a bourbon tasting event to sample different varieties and find ones that appeal to your palate.
Ultimately, the best bottle of bourbon is one that aligns with your taste preferences and offers a satisfying drinking experience. Don’t be afraid to explore new brands and expressions to discover hidden gems and expand your whiskey palate.
Why bourbon is the best liquor?
The assertion that bourbon is the best liquor is subjective and largely depends on individual preferences and tastes. However, bourbon holds a special place in the hearts of many whiskey enthusiasts for several reasons:
Rich history and tradition: Bourbon has a long and storied history in American culture, dating back to the 18th century. Its origins are deeply rooted in Kentucky, where early settlers began distilling whiskey using local grains and techniques passed down through generations.
Distinctive flavor profile: Bourbon’s flavor profile is characterized by notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and spices, derived from its unique production process. The combination of corn-based mash, charred oak barrels, and aging imparts a rich and complex taste that sets bourbon apart from other spirits.
Versatility in cocktails: Bourbon is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a wide range of cocktails. It serves as the base for iconic drinks such as the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, and Mint Julep, showcasing its adaptability and appeal in mixology.
Quality craftsmanship: Bourbon production requires skill, patience, and attention to detail, from selecting the finest grains to aging the whiskey in charred oak barrels. Many bourbon distilleries pride themselves on traditional methods and artisanal craftsmanship, resulting in high-quality spirits cherished by enthusiasts worldwide.
Cultural significance: Bourbon has become synonymous with American culture and heritage, representing craftsmanship, independence, and the spirit of the American South. It has inspired countless stories, songs, and traditions, cementing its place as a cultural icon in the United States and beyond.
While bourbon may hold a special allure for many whiskey lovers, the “best” liquor ultimately comes down to personal taste preferences and individual experiences. Whether you prefer bourbon, Scotch whisky, rum, or another spirit, the world of liquor offers a diverse array of options to explore and enjoy responsibly.
Is bourbon high quality?
The quality of bourbon, like any spirit, can vary depending on factors such as production methods, ingredients, aging process, and craftsmanship. While there are many high-quality bourbons available, not all bourbons are created equal.
High-quality bourbon is typically made with a mash bill containing a significant percentage of corn, along with other grains such as rye, barley, or wheat. The fermentation process, distillation, and aging in charred oak barrels all play crucial roles in developing the bourbon’s flavor profile and overall quality.
Many reputable bourbon distilleries pride themselves on using traditional methods, sourcing high-quality ingredients, and adhering to strict production standards. These distilleries often produce bourbons that are well-balanced, complex, and enjoyable to drink, earning them recognition and acclaim in the whiskey community.
Ultimately, the perception of quality is subjective and can vary from person to person based on individual taste preferences and experiences. Exploring different brands and expressions of bourbon can help you discover which ones you consider to be of high quality.
Which brand of bourbon is the smoothest?
The term “smooth” in the context of bourbon often refers to a whiskey that is easy to drink, with a mellow and well-balanced flavor profile and a smooth finish. While the perception of smoothness can vary from person to person, several bourbon brands are frequently cited for their smooth and approachable character.
Some bourbon brands known for their smoothness include:
Blanton’s: Blanton’s is renowned for its smooth and creamy texture, with flavors of caramel, vanilla, and oak. Its balanced profile and long, satisfying finish make it a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts.
Woodford Reserve: Woodford Reserve is celebrated for its smooth and refined taste, with notes of toasted oak, caramel, and spice. Its velvety texture and well-integrated flavors make it an excellent choice for sipping neat or in cocktails.
Buffalo Trace: Buffalo Trace is prized for its smooth and approachable character, with flavors of toffee, cinnamon, and dried fruit. Its gentle warmth and lingering sweetness contribute to its reputation as a smooth and easy-drinking bourbon.
Angel’s Envy: Angel’s Envy is known for its smooth and luxurious mouthfeel, with layers of caramel, vanilla, and baking spices. Its unique finishing process in port wine barrels adds depth and complexity, resulting in a remarkably smooth and satisfying bourbon.
These are just a few examples of bourbon brands valued for their smoothness, but there are many other options to explore based on personal taste preferences and individual experiences.
What is the most popular brand of bourbon?
The popularity of bourbon brands can vary depending on factors such as regional preferences, marketing efforts, and consumer trends. However, several bourbon brands enjoy widespread recognition and acclaim within the whiskey community.
One of the most popular and widely recognized bourbon brands is Jack Daniel’s. While technically a Tennessee whiskey, Jack Daniel’s is often included in discussions of bourbon due to its similar production process and flavor profile. Jack Daniel’s is known for its smooth and mellow taste, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, making it a favorite choice for both casual drinkers and whiskey enthusiasts worldwide.
Other popular bourbon brands include Jim Beam, Wild Turkey, Maker’s Mark, and Evan Williams, among others. These brands offer a range of expressions catering to different taste preferences and price points, contributing to their widespread appeal and popularity among bourbon drinkers.
Ultimately, the most popular brand of bourbon may vary depending on factors such as market trends, consumer preferences, and cultural influences. Exploring different bourbon brands and expressions can help you discover which ones resonate most with your palate and drinking preferences.
Do you put bourbon in a flask?
Yes, bourbon is often enjoyed from a flask, especially when people want to enjoy their favorite bourbon while on the go or in outdoor settings where glassware may not be practical or allowed. Flasks are convenient vessels for carrying small amounts of bourbon, typically between 3 to 6 ounces, making them suitable for personal consumption or sharing with friends in social settings.
When selecting a flask for bourbon, it’s essential to choose one made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel or pewter to ensure the integrity of the whiskey. Additionally, it’s advisable to clean and dry the flask thoroughly before filling it with bourbon to prevent any unwanted flavors or contamination.
Enjoying bourbon from a flask can enhance the drinking experience by providing a portable and discreet way to savor your favorite whiskey wherever you go.
So, What is The Best Liquor Stores For Bourbon?
There you have it – the best liquor shops to buy bourbon. Located in different parts of the country, these shops may have everything you’re looking for – from local to international brands of booze. You don’t have to search everywhere else to find your favorite spirit.
So aside from the Bourbon Trail, the location of fancy and famous distilleries (like Heaven Hill), you can find more shops in other parts of the US. These locations let you choose from a variety and meticulously store-picked spirits.
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