10 Best Sipping Whiskeys For Beginners in 2023
Last Updated on November 5, 2023 by Lydia Martin
If you are new to the world of whiskey, then you may be wondering what the best sipping whiskeys for beginners are. Unfortunately, whiskey isn’t for everyone. It’s a hard drink and picking the wrong one can be quite upsetting.
That’s why we’re here to talk about the best sipping whiskey for beginners. Let’s dive in.
Top 10 Sipping Whiskeys for Beginners
1. 1792 Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Average Price: Roughly $25.99 (Total Wine)
Alcohol Content: 46.85%
Why We Like It:
This bourbon whiskey is distilled and bottled by the Barton 1792 Distillery. The company has been in operation since 1879 and is located in Bardstown, Kentucky.
Many find this whiskey complex and sophisticated, but we find it expressive and sweet.
The whiskey is made from a mash bill of corn, rye, and malted barley, carefully chosen by the Master Distiller. It is aged for eight years in new oak barrels.
The flavor profile of this bourbon whiskey includes notes of vanilla, sweet caramel, and spice.
2. Ballantine’s 17-years-old Blended Scotch Whisky
Average Price: Roughly $24.49 (Total Wine)
Alcohol Content: 40%
Why We Like It:
This blended scotch whisky is a product of Ballantine’s brand. The company was founded in 1827 by George Ballantine.
It is aged for 17 years in oak barrels, and the longer maturation gives it an extra depth when it comes to character and flavor.
You’ll find subtle notes of fruity yet velvety texture, and a sensation of smokiness, making it great for sipping.
Read: Top Whiskeys For Bartesians
3. Balvenie Caribbean Cask 14-year-old Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Average Price: Roughly 76.99 (Total Wine)
Alcohol Content: 43%
Why We Like It:
The Balvenie Carribean Cask 14-year old Single Malt whisky is matured in the traditional oak casks, then finished in Carribean rum casks.
Malt Master David Stewart created this ideal spirit by filling American oak casks with his very own blend of West Indian rums.
He replaced them with the 14-year-old spirit when the casks were ready. The result is a special blend of single malt whisky with the Balvenie smooth character and notes of fruits and toffee for that warm finish that’s perfect for sipping.
4. Elijah Craig 12-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Average Price: Roughly $33 (Flaviar)
Alcohol Content: 47%
Why We Like It:
Elijah Craig is a balanced bourbon that’s simple yet interesting. We find the oak flavor as the ultimate stand-out among the flavors.
With its classic character, Elijah Craig is perfect for both beginners and veterans.
5. J&B Rare Blended Scotch Whisky
Average Price: Roughly $29.99 (Total Wine)
Alcohol Content: 40%
Why We Like It:
This blended scotch whisky is a product of the J&B brand. The brand was founded in 1835 by Johnnie Walker and James Buchanan.
The whisky is made from a blend of more than 40 single malt and grain scotches.
It has a light flavor profile with notes of honey and apple, making it great for sipping. We find it smooth without the harsh bite, but some might not like the aftertaste.
But where was whiskey invented?
6. Knob Creek Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Average Price: Roughly $32.99 (Total Wine)
Alcohol Content: 50%
Why We Like It:
The Knob Creek distillery is located in Clermont, Kentucky, and has been in operation since 1789.
This whiskey is a great option for those who want something with a little more of a kick. It’s got a bold, spicy flavor that’s great for sipping and in an Old Fashioned.
The whiskey is made from a mash bill with at least 51% corn. It is aged for nine years in new oak barrels.
The flavor profile of this bourbon whiskey includes notes of caramel, smooth vanilla, and oak.
7. Maker’s Mark Bourbon Whiskey
Average Price: Roughly $21.99 (Total Wine)
Alcohol Content: 45%
Why We Like It:
This bourbon whiskey is a product of the Maker’s Mark distillery. The distillery is located in Loretto, Kentucky, and has been in operation since 1805.
The whiskey is made from soft, red winter wheat, instead of the typical rye, making it easy to drink – never sharp or bitter.
The flavor profile of this bourbon whiskey includes notes of caramel, vanilla, and fruit.
8. Monkey Shoulder Blended Scotch Whisky
Average Price: Roughly $29.99 (Total Wine)
Alcohol Content: 43%
Why We Like It:
Monkey Shoulder Blended Scotch whisky from William Grant is made with Speyside’s finest single malt whiskies.
We like that it’s smooth, malty, and creamy to the taste. Aside from sipping it neat, you can also add some ice or use it in cocktails.
It has fruity aromas and mild vanilla notes.
9. Colonel E.H. Taylor Straight Rye
Average Price: Roughly $131.99 (Caskers)
Alcohol Content: 50%
Why We Like It:
Colonel E.H. Taylor straight rye whiskey is from Buffalo Trace.
This Bottled-in-Bond whiskey comes in at a proof of 100. Bottled-in-Bond [1] means that the rye is produced in one distillation season of a particular distiller and aged in a federally-bonded warehouse for at least four years.
The rye used in the production makes it a bit spicier than other whiskeys or bourbons, but it won’t overwhelm the whiskey’s unique character.
We think you’ll find the peppery bite a bit interesting.
10. Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Average Price: Roughly $35.99 (Total Wine)
Alcohol Content: 45.2%
Why We Like It:
Another great option for beginners is a product of the Woodford Reserve distillery.
The distillery is located in Versailles, Kentucky, and has been in operation since 1812.
The whiskey is made from a mash bill of corn, rye, and barley. It is aged for seven years in new oak barrels.
Woodford Reserve has more than 200 tasty flavor notes ranging from wood and bold to fruity and floral. The balanced taste makes it perfect for sipping.
Read: 15 Best-Selling Whiskeys in the US
FAQs
How do beginners start liking whiskey?
There are a few things that beginners can do to help them develop a liking for whiskey. One approach is to start by mixing it with other beverages, such as cola or ginger ale.
Another approach is to try different types of whiskey until you find one that you enjoy.
How do you sip whiskey?
The best way to sip whiskey is to start with a few minutes of nosing. Next, take a sip. Hold the whiskey on your tongue and taste it throughout your mouth. Lastly, swallow it and let the aroma out through your nose.
What is the best whiskey type for beginners to sip?
There is no right or wrong answer to this question. Some people may prefer bourbon whiskey, while others may prefer scotch whisky. Beginners may want to try different types of whiskey until they find one that they enjoy.
In Closing
Some of the best sipping whiskeys for beginners include 1792 Small Batch, Woodford Reserve, and Knob Creek. If you’re new to the world of whiskey, start with one of these, and you’re sure to find a new favorite.
There are so many different types and brands out there, and it’s hard to know which one will be best for you. With the pointers we’ve given you, it’s now time to go out and try all these awesome whiskeys. Cheers!
Reference:
- https://www.gearpatrol.com/food/drinks/a36466533/what-is-bottled-in-bond/
Thanks Lydia! This was just what I was looking for as I begin to seek out a smooth palatable easy sipping bourbon whiskey to end my day.
Thanks! Happy sipping!
Macallan Triple Cask did it for me. Also Glenrothes 18. Both very smooth and filled with many flavours.