Last Updated on March 6, 2024 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.
Frequently Asked Questions (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 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.
What is bourbon non-chill filtered?
Bourbon that is labeled as “non-chill filtered” means that it has undergone a production process where the whiskey is not subjected to chill filtration, a common step in the whiskey-making process.
Chill filtration involves cooling the whiskey to near-freezing temperatures to remove fatty acids and esters that can cause cloudiness at lower temperatures. Bourbon labeled as non-chill filtered skips this step, preserving more of the natural oils and flavors in the whiskey.
Is non-chill filtered better?
The preference for non-chill filtered bourbon depends on individual taste preferences. Some enthusiasts argue that non-chill filtered whiskey retains more of its original character and depth of flavor, providing a fuller and richer tasting experience.
Others, however, appreciate the clarity and consistency achieved through chill filtration.
Ultimately, whether non-chill filtered bourbon is “better” is subjective, and it boils down to personal preferences.
What does no chill-filtered mean?
“No chill-filtered” on a whiskey label indicates that the whiskey has not undergone the chill filtration process. Chill filtration is employed to remove certain compounds that may cause cloudiness when the whiskey is chilled or diluted.
By opting for no chill filtration, distillers aim to preserve the natural oils and flavors present in the whiskey, potentially resulting in a more complex and authentic taste profile.
Which whiskies are non-chill filtered?
Many premium and craft whiskies, particularly those emphasizing a more authentic and robust flavor profile, are labeled as non-chill filtered.
Brands like Ardbeg, Glenlivet, and Glenfiddich offer non-chill filtered expressions, as do certain small-batch and single malt producers that prioritize showcasing the full spectrum of flavors inherent in their whiskies.
Why Jack Daniels is not a bourbon?
Jack Daniel’s is not classified as bourbon due to its unique production process. While it meets the general criteria for bourbon—being a whiskey distilled from at least 51% corn and aged in new charred oak barrels—Jack Daniel’s undergoes an additional step known as the Lincoln County Process.
This involves filtering the whiskey through sugar maple charcoal before aging, imparting a distinct smoothness.
The use of this process places Jack Daniel’s in the Tennessee whiskey category, setting it apart from bourbons and contributing to its unique flavor profile.
What does chill filtering do to whisky?
Chill filtering is a process in whisky production where the spirit is cooled to near-freezing temperatures, causing certain compounds to solidify and be removed.
This step is primarily aimed at preventing cloudiness or haziness in the whisky when it is exposed to lower temperatures or diluted with ice or water.
While chill filtering may enhance visual clarity, some argue that it can strip away certain natural oils and flavors, potentially affecting the complexity of the whisky.
What does chill filtering do to bourbon?
Chill filtering has a similar impact on bourbon as it does on other whiskies. In the context of bourbon production, chill filtering is employed to remove fatty acids and esters that might cause cloudiness when the whiskey is chilled or diluted.
While this process can enhance the visual appeal of the bourbon, it may also alter the mouthfeel and flavor profile by removing some of the oils and compounds that contribute to the overall taste experience.
Is Yamazaki chill-filtered?
Yamazaki, a Japanese single malt whisky produced by Suntory, does undergo chill filtration in certain expressions.
While not all Yamazaki whiskies are chill-filtered, some releases may undergo this process to achieve a specific clarity in the final product.
However, the presence or absence of chill filtration can vary among different Yamazaki expressions.
Is Jim Beam chill-filtered?
Jim Beam, a well-known American bourbon brand, does employ chill filtration in its production process for certain expressions.
Like many other large-scale bourbon producers, Jim Beam may choose to chill filter to maintain a consistent appearance and prevent cloudiness in their whiskies, particularly those intended for a broad consumer market.
Why is chill filtering bad?
Opinions on chill filtering vary, but some critics argue that it can strip away flavorful compounds and essential oils present in the whisky, diminishing its complexity and authenticity.
The process is often criticized by whisky enthusiasts who appreciate the unaltered and full-bodied characteristics of non-chill filtered whiskies.
While chill filtering contributes to visual clarity, some argue that the potential impact on taste and texture outweighs the benefits, leading to a preference for whiskies labeled as “non-chill filtered” for a more genuine and robust flavor experience.Top of Form
Finval Verdict: Non-Chill Filtered Bourbon
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.
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