Last Updated on April 12, 2024 by Lydia Martin
Indulging in the world of sipping bourbon is an unparalleled pleasure. As a bourbon enthusiast, I understand the misconception that price dictates quality for inexperienced drinkers.
Fret not, I have curated a handpicked selection of the best-sipping bourbons that offer an extraordinary sipping experience without burning a hole in your pocket.
Top 15 Bourbons For Sipping
1. Knob Creek 12-Year-Old Bourbon Whiskey
Alcohol Content: 50%
Average Price: Roughly $52.99 (Total Wine)
Comparable To: Booker’s Bourbon and Basil Hayden’s Bourbon
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why We Like It:
Knob Creek is a Kentucky whiskey introduced in 2019. This was a special edition during its release, but it became a permanent addition to Jim Beam’s lineup.
Jim Beam ages this bourbon for twelve years inside American white oak casks.
I like that it has retained a complex flavor profile with rich caramel notes, baking spices, chocolate, clove, vanilla, oak, and bits of nuts as an undertone.
Pros:
- Complex and well-balanced
- Smooth and velvety texture
- Recognizable brand
Cons:
- Limited availability
Here’s how to properly open a Knob Creek bottle.
2. Jefferson’s Ocean Aged at Sea
Alcohol Content: 59.8%
Average Price: Roughly $82.99 (Total Wine)
Comparable To: Angel’s Envy Bourbon and Willett Pot Still Reserve Bourbon
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why We Like It:
Jefferson’s Ocean Aged at Sea does not only have an interesting name but an equally fascinating aging distillation process.
These bourbons are aged seven to eight years on land before being shipped to rest for five to ten months at sea.
Tasting it for the first time, I noticed that the barrel influences the savory taste of these bourbons. It is constantly in contact with the wood due to the ship’s movement. It travels around the world as it rests on board the 24 voyages.
Pros:
- Unique aging process
- Smooth and velvety texture
- Complex and nuanced flavors
Cons:
- High price point
- Some may find the ocean’s influence overpowering
3. Four Roses Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey
Alcohol Content: 45%
Average Price: Roughly $35.99 (Total Wine)
Comparable To: Woodford Reserve Bourbon and Buffalo Trace Bourbon
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why We Like It:
Four Roses is one of the best sipping bourbons [1] because of its rich but balanced flavors.
Four Roses have proprietary yeast strains that they use to mix with their mash bills making different distinct recipes.
“As far as the flavors go, you’ve got a big spectrum in bourbon and there’s a flavor for everybody. “
– Brent Elliott, Four Roses Master Distiller
The bourbon’s sweeter flavor profile makes me enjoy it neat and as a base mix for cocktails. Some drinkers claim they encounter subtle notes of papaya, banana, and other tropical fruits.
Pros:
- Smooth and mellow
- Rich and flavorful
- Approachable for beginners
Cons:
- It may lack complexity for seasoned bourbon drinkers
- Not aged as long as some premium bourbons
4. Old Forester Classic 86 Proof
Alcohol Content: 43%
Average Price: Roughly $19.99 (Total Wine)
Comparable To: Evan Williams Black Label Bourbon and Jim Beam White Label Bourbon
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why We Like It:
Old Forester Classic 86 Proof is part of the Brown-Forman Spirits. This product has 150 years of experience under its belt.
I love the complex and rich flavors of this whiskey. I commonly see it in bars, and its smooth flavor is great for sipping on the rocks or cocktails.
But what’s the best bourbon brand below $20?
Pros:
- Easy to find
- Suitable for both sipping and mixing
- Great entry-level bourbon
Cons:
- Limited depth in flavor profile
- May not stand out among premium bourbon
5. Russell’s Reserve 10-Year-Old Bourbon Whiskey
Alcohol Content: 45%
Average Price: Roughly $41.99 (Caskers)
Comparable To: Eagle Rare Bourbon and Henry McKenna 10-Year Single Barrel Bourbon
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why We Like It:
Russell’s Reserve 10-Year-Old is part of Wild Turkey’s Russel Reserve Line.
This is in honor of the father and son Master Distillers, Jimmy and Eddie Russel, who were part of the distillery’s success.
This bottle is for a bourbon drinker who simply wants to enjoy and relax.
It has a patented blend of vanilla and caramel with a strong note of cardamom.
It has a warming effect on the palate, especially with the spices, but it also has that undeniable bitterness in the finish.
But what’s our favorite everyday bourbon?
Pros:
- Aged to perfection
- Rich and flavorful
- Long and satisfying finish
Cons:
- Limited availability
- Older batches may be harder to find
6. Heaven’s Door Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Alcohol Content: 46%
Average Price: Roughly $37.99 (Caskers)
Comparable To: Woodford Reserve Bourbon and Angel’s Envy Bourbon
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why We Like It:
Heaven’s Door is a Tennessee mashbill bourbon that stayed inside Heaven Hill Distillery for at least years.
This collaboration bottle of Bob Dylan and Marc Bushala is a recipient of many awards from different institutions worldwide.
This bourbon has sweet flavors of vanilla with a subtle hint of baked bread toasted in oak. It also has that distinct taste of caramelized pecans and stone fruits.
At 46% ABV, it is a product I can drink straight with no harsh alcohol flavor.
Pros:
- Unique and artistic packaging
- High-quality craftsmanship
- Distinctive flavor profile
Cons:
- Some may find the flavor profile too bold
- Some may prefer a longer aging period
Read: Top Bourbons For Baking
7. Angel’s Envy Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Alcohol Content: 43.3%
Average Price: Roughly $40.99 (Caskers)
Comparable To: Russell’s Reserve 10-Year-Old Bourbon and Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why We Like It:
Angel’s Envy is Master Distiller Lincoln Henderson’s masterpiece. He created this smooth whiskey after he retired from Brown-Forman.
The complex flavors of this drink impressed experts and awarded the brand multiple recognitions.
The last parts of its aging process were inside port barrels, where the fruity flavors originated.
The smooth texture is perfect for its sweet, mouth-watering flavors of dried cherries, strawberries, chocolate, and toffee.
Pros:
- Well-balanced with sweet and spicy notes
- Exceptional craftsmanship
- Distinctive port wine cask influence
Cons:
- Not suitable for those seeking traditional bourbon flavors
- It may not stand out among other premium bourbons
Read: Angel’s Envy Tour & Guide
8. Maker’s Mark Handmade Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Alcohol Content: 45%
Average Price: Roughly $29.99 (Caskers)
Comparable To: Woodford Reserve Bourbon and Buffalo Trace Bourbon
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why We Like It:
Maker’s Mark is a wheated bourbon that offers traditional flavors. This bottle is for those who love the old-fashioned taste of whiskey.
The strong scent of cocoa, baking spice, licorice, peanuts, and cherry pie is enough to encourage you to take a sip.
I taste rich fruits, brown sugar, nuts, and winter spices with every sip. It is a whiskey you can drink neat or for pairing.
This release belongs to the middle shelf category, unlike the casks-strength release, which is top-shelf. You can get a 750ml bottle of Maker’s Mark at roughly $31.99 (Drizly).
Pros:
- Iconic red wax seal
- Smooth and approachable
- Consistent quality
Cons:
- Not as complex as some premium bourbons
- Some may prefer higher proof
Read: What Bourbon Does John Wick Drink?
9. Widow Jane 10-Year-Old Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Alcohol Content: 45.5%
Average Price: Roughly $68.49 (Total Wine)
Comparable To: Four Roses Single Barrel Bourbon and Jefferson’s Reserve Very Old Bourbon
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why We Like It:
Widow Jane is a multi-awarded whiskey produced by Cacao Prieto Distillery made with 45.5% ABV.
The Best Non-Kentucky “Small Batch” Bourbon for 2022 was awarded to them by the World Whiskies Award.
According to the manufacturers, this is their most hedonistic bourbon, and they are telling the truth.
The flavors of sweet vanilla, brown sugar, caramel, coffee cake, and floral notes make it easy for me to drink it straight.
It is well balanced with the strong flavors of oak with a long and strong finish of tropical notes because it is aged in oak barrels [2].
Pros:
- Aged to perfection
- Rich and full-bodied
- Smooth and velvety texture
Cons:
- Premium price point
- Limited availability in some regions
Read: World’s Best-Selling Bourbons
10. Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey
Alcohol Content: 47%
Average Price: Roughly $27.99 (Caskers)
Comparable To: Buffalo Trace Bourbon and Knob Creek Small Batch Bourbon
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why We Like It:
Elijah Craig is a small batch of bourbon with 47% ABV. It has a distinct flavor with a strong spice character influenced by the new charred oak barrels it was aged in.
The sweetness of honey notes, brown sugar, and maple syrup blends well with spice notes.
The flavor remains intact even after dilution, when added with ice, or when mixed.
It is probably one of the smoothest bourbons you will ever taste in this price range.
Pros:
- Robust and flavorful
- Smooth and mellow
- Well-balanced with caramel and vanilla notes
Cons:
- It may not appeal to those seeking sweeter bourbons
- Intense flavors may overpower delicate palates
11. Henry McKenna 10-Year-Old Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey
Alcohol Content: 50%
Average Price: Roughly $99.99 (Caskers)
Comparable To: Four Roses Single Barrel Bourbon and Eagle Rare Bourbon
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why We Like It:
Henry McKenna Bourbon is aged for ten years. It is made from sweet mash bill, corn, barley, and rye.
This drink won the “Best Bourbon” award at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2018 and 2019.
It develops a sweet and balanced flavor inside white oak barrels. The sweet and strong notes are blended well with a very noticeable savory undertone.
Pros:
- Smooth and velvety texture
- Highly regarded by bourbon enthusiasts
- Great for sipping and appreciating the nuances
Cons:
- Premium price point
- Some batches may vary in taste
12. Noah’s Mill Small Batch Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey
Alcohol Content: 57.15%
Average Price: Roughly $58.99 (Total Wine)
Comparable To: Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon and Angel’s Envy Cask Strength Bourbon
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Why We Like It:
Noah’s Mill Small Batch Kentucky Whiskey is a product of Willett Distillery. This blend is from a daily that has a long history of whiskey-making.
The old releases were aged in new charred oak barrels for 15 years, but the current ones no longer have age statements.
It is one of the high-proof bourbon bottles, with 57.15% ABV. Sipping it neat, the scent that greets the nose is already a plethora of sweet treats that go to the palate.
Pros:
- Bold and robust palate
- Unique and distinctive taste profile
- Great for bourbon enthusiasts seeking a bolder experience
Cons:
- Older batches may vary in taste
- Not ideal for budget-conscious consumers
13. Michter’s US1 Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey
Alcohol Content: 45.7%
Average Price: Roughly $44.99 (Total Wine)
Comparable To: Woodford Reserve Bourbon and Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Why We Like It:
Michter’s US1 whiskey is another smooth bourbon with simple and sweet notes. You will enjoy this product because of its laid-back flavors that do not overwhelm the palate.
This 25-year-old bourbon is one of the rarest bottles the distillery puts out.
Aged in charred new oak barrels, it boasts hints of vanilla, citrus, and soft cinnamon with a lasting taste of strawberry shortcake.
Compared to other competitors, it does not hold any bold flavors.
Pros:
- Versatile for sipping or cocktails
- Recognized and respected brand
- Great for bourbon enthusiasts
Cons:
- Limited availability in some regions
- Not aged as long as some premium bourbons
Read: Knob Creek & Bulleit Bourbon Comparison
14. W.L. Weller 12-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Wheated Bourbon
Alcohol Content: 45%
Average Price: Roughly $320.99 (Caskers)
Comparable To: Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon and Old Rip Van Winkle 10-Year-Old Bourbon
Why We Like It: ⭐⭐⭐
The W.L. Weller 12-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Wheated Bourbon is a product of Buffalo Trace Distillery.
This bottle was awarded several recognitions from International Spirits Challenge and World Whiskies Award.
Compared to other wheated bourbons, it is aged longer to produce a distinct flavor profile.
I like the deep bronze color that matches its rich, complex flavors.
Its twelve years spent in American oak barrels result in an abundance of the oaky palate balanced with savory dark blackberry and butterscotch.
Pros:
- Smooth and mellow
- Rich and full-bodied
- Well-balanced flavor profile
Cons:
- Limited availability and high demand
- Some batches may vary in taste
15. Bernheim Original 7 Year Old
Alcohol Content: 40%
Average Price: Roughly $28.99 (Caskers)
Comparable To: W.L. Weller 12-Year-Old Bourbon and Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve Bourbon
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Why We Like It:
The Bernheim Original 7-Year-Old is a product of Heaven Hill Distillery and is the first American whiskey introduced since prohibition [3].
It was chosen as the Best Wheat American Whiskey in 2013 by World Whiskies Award.
The scent of this bottle is very pronounced sweet cornbread with mint, pine, and oak. There is a good blend between sweet and strong.
The soft notes of sweet corn and caramel entwine with the restrained flavors of tobacco, oak, and leather. Each 750 ml bottle is sold roughly at $32.99 (Drizly).
Pros:
- Highly sought after
- Smooth and velvety
- Rich and complex flavor
Cons:
- It may not be accessible in all regions
- Some may prefer a longer aging period
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What Makes It Ideal For Sipping
The flavor is imperative when searching for the best sipping bourbon.
Overwhelming alcohol savors, too much sweetness, and unbearable spiciness could be unlikable to the palate. Balance is the key to enjoying this drink.
Age
The ideal age for a sipping bourbon is between 6-10 years.
If you prefer a sour mash product and want a Scotch, you can choose one that goes longer than 20 years.
Bourbons are leaning on the sweeter notes. Don’t go older if you want to taste all other flavors attributed to the charred oak.
But does Bourbon have to be made in Kentucky?
Price Range
Prices depend on the quality and age of the product. Most mass-produced products have lower prices [4] because production is not as costly as small-batch.
A lesser number produced means lower ROI, which translates to a higher price on the tags. However, some brands sell top-quality whiskies at low prices.
Quality
The quality of the spirit you will be buying depends on many factors. It would be best if you looked at the reputation of the brand.
If their product line is known for quality flavor and texture, you can rely on that. Another aspect to check on is their experience.
Consistency over the years is imperative. But how do you spot fake bourbon?
How to Sip Bourbon
The best way to sip bourbon is to have it at room temperature, poured in a snifter, shot glass, or even a rock glass.
“Sip bourbon, savor life’s rich notes, and embrace exquisite moments.”
-Liquor Laboratory
Adding anything should not be an option, even a piece of ice. You will better appreciate the complexity of its flavors when drunk straight.
FAQs
What is the smoothest bourbon to sip?
It is also versatile and affordable. But what’s the smoothest bourbon for beginners?
Pappy Van Winkle bourbon is also a smooth bourbon to sip. However, finding a piece in physical stores is not very easy, which is a disadvantage.
Is bourbon smoother to sip than other whiskeys?
Though bourbon is a type of whiskey, it has a softer texture, and the alcohol is gentler as it ages longer.
The best bourbon whiskey offers deeper flavor characters and a more tame alcohol taste since it has time to rest.
Are all bourbons good for sipping?
Some are also unbalanced in that the stronger flavors overwhelm the entire taste of the spirit.
Can a sip of bourbon get you drunk?
It will take three to four shots of bourbon to get drunk, but that depends on your alcohol tolerance.
Final Verdict: Best Sipping Bourbon
The best-sipping bourbons always have parity on the palate. Other than flavor, it must have versatility and a good price.
Four Roses Small Batch, Jefferson’s Ocean Aged at Sea, and Old Forester Classic 86 Proof are great bottles to try. But Knob Creek 12 gets the upper hand for being the best-sipping bourbon regarding tasting notes, availability, age, and price point.
References:
- Whisky, Whiskey, and Bourbon: Products and Manufacture
- The Effects of Aging on Liquor
- Prohibition
- How Did Mass Production Affect the Price of Consumer Goods?
