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Last Updated on February 6, 2023 by Lydia Martin
Non-chill filtered is a term closely related to high-proof spirits. But apart from that, this may also mean complexity and rich flavor notes.
Besides, non-chill filtered spirits are bottled without undergoing any filtration process to strain fatty acids and cool down their temp and proof.
If you’re interested in these kinds of spirits, we got you here. Today, we’ll break down the best non-chill filtered bourbons you want to take advantage of.
Top 10 Non-Chill-Filtered Bourbons (Must-Try)
10. Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel
Average Price: around $150/750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 46.5% ABV
Why We Like It: This is an incredibly enjoyable pour with little to no burn, and it has the complexity and flavors you would expect from a barrel-based drink.
The nose provides a hit of alcohol, and as you open it, you’ll start to experience the dark fruit, baking spices, and brown sugar hints.
“Blanton’s continues to be one of our most sought-after bourbons.’
— Kris Comstock, Senior Marketing Director
This bourbon has a creamy texture and a long and satisfying finish.
9. Booker’s Bourbon
Average Price: approx. $89.99/750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 60-65% ABV
Why We Like It: Booker’s Bourbon is an iconic spirit that people may recognize. It’s bottled in barrel proof, and its alcohol content is typically in the low 60 percent range.
We particularly like this bourbon in making mint julep, which can be served cooled down with a bit of water. The proof depends on the release, so it varies.
If you’re looking for a great bottle to start practicing high-proof expressions, better try this one.
8. William Larue Weller
Average Price: approx. $99/750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 64% ABV
Why We Like It: This barrel-proof whiskey made with wheat instead of rye was pioneered by William Larue Weller.
The aroma of this whiskey is filled with hints of sweet corn, plums, and light toffee.
The palate is quite interesting as it’s filled with flavors of salted almonds, figs, and marshmallows.
Overall, this is a smooth and flavorful drink, and we recommend this for beginners.
7. Maker’s Cask Strength
Average Price: approx. $52/750ml (Drizly)
Alcohol Content: 54-57% ABV
Why We Like It: The enhanced front-palate characteristics of the Maker’s Mark Cask Strength sets it apart from other offerings.
While its alcohol content is not as high as others on this list, the rich oak, spice, and vanilla notes are the hallmarks of this signature drink from the brand.
It’s bottled at its purest form, but very smooth and savory.
6. Colonel EH Taylor Jr Barrel Proof
Average Price: approx. $69.99/750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 63-67% ABV
Why We Like It: This is 100% hand-crafted bourbon aged in French oak barrels. It has the aromas of cooked berries and caramel with a slightly floral and rich note.
“A masterpiece that, in truth, might be too much for inexperienced whiskey devotees.”
— Paul Pacult, Spirits Journalist
The taste is full of spice, with hints of pepper, dried oak, and toasty vanilla. It finishes with a long and satisfying note of fruit, which is surprising given its strong alcohol content.
5. Stagg Jr
Average Price: approx. $59.99/750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 60-65% ABV
Why We Like It: The combination of sweet, dark, and brown sugar flavors with rye spiciness creates a rich and satisfying drink.
The finish lingers with a hint of cherries and cloves, highlighting the experience.
Overall, Stagg, Jr. is an incredibly robust whiskey aged for over ten years. The bold character and the flavor profile come along great, promising a good sipping experience.
4. Elijah Craig Barrel Proof
Average Price: approx. $70/750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 60-68% ABV
Why We Like It: One of our favorites from Elijah Craig is the Barrel Proof.
This non-chill filtered whiskey has a lovely aroma of burnt orange and stone fruit and lingers on the palate for a long time.
It’s best to open it up with a bit of water to get the most out of it and max out the drinking experience.
The proof [1] varies, depending on the release, but at 60-proof on average, this is quite a strong drink.
3. Hudson Baby Bourbon Whiskey
Average Price: approx. $45/750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 46% ABV
Why We Like It: As the name suggests, it’s a baby bourbon, so as expected, the age is noticeable on the nose and palate.
This is an excellent introduction to aged whiskeys. It is warm and friendly, with hints of sweet and savory flavors, and it will leave you wanting more.
2. Wild Turkey Rare Breed
Average Price: approx. $55/750ml (Drizly)
Alcohol Content: 58% ABV
Why We Like It: We like this bourbon for its creamy texture and well-balanced notes of spicy and oak.
It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a good Wild Turkey Bourbon at a great value.
The Rare Breed is also one of the best in its class, and it’s a winner in terms of both value and taste.
This is a warm drink you would expect from a bottle that’s 116-proof, and it doesn’t overwhelm you.
1. Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel
Average Price: $64.99
Alcohol Content: 55% ABV
Why We Like It: This is a very good sipping bourbon bottled at high proof. The creamy body and sweet taste are balanced against the charred oak.
If you’ve ever tried Russell’s 10 Year, you’ll know that this is a similar spirit but better due to the higher proof.
The finish is long and tasty, with hints of orange and spice, and it’s an excellent choice for any occasion.
FAQs
What does chill filtered mean in bourbon whiskey?
Chill-filtered in bourbon whiskey means the spirit is cooled down to around 32 degrees F or lower.
The extra sediment in the bourbon that has been filtered through at this temperature will eventually clump together and form a clear blend.
When chill filtered, the alcohol proof tone down before it is bottled.
Is non-chill filtered better than filtered bourbon?
Non-chill filtered [2] is better than filtered bourbon if you want a rich aroma, flavor, finish, and high ABV.
The fatty acids remain in the spirit since they’re not filtered, which is responsible for the whiskey’s complexity.
In Summary
Many non-chill filtered bourbons are available on the market, but picking the best among the rest is crucial so you don’t waste time and money for nothing.
But now you know the bottles to opt for, and you can start exploring them one by one and see which bottle will capture your tastebuds and meet your standards.
From the Blanton’s SFTB to Stagg. Jr. to the Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel, all are well worth the prices and definitely won’t disappoint. But remember – always drink responsibly.
References:
- https://www.foodnetwork.com/fn-dish/news/2017/07/why-alcohol-content-is-measured-in-proof
- https://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/food-and-wine/wine/what-is-a-non-chill-filtered-whisky/article4102486/
Lydia Martin hails from Redmond, Washington, where you’ll find some of the best cocktail bars and distilleries that offer a great mix of local drinks. She used to work as a bar manager in Paris and is a self-taught mixologist whose passion for crafting unique cocktails led her to create Liquor Laboratory. Lydia can whip up a mean Margarita in seconds! Contact at [email protected] or learn more about us here.
