Sixteen bartenders agree on one thing: there is no single right bourbon for a beginner. But there are plenty of good ones.
The drinks pros named 16 bottles that balance price, flavor, and approachability. The list runs from budget staples to splurge-worthy single barrels, and the bartenders were happy to argue for their favorites.
Four Roses and the Case for a Lineup
Hailey Knight, beverage director at Félix Cocktails et Cuisine and La Cave in Charleston, S.C., recommends Four Roses because the brand offers a path forward.
“I like to introduce people to Four Roses because you can start with one bottle and work your way through the lineup,” Knight said. The classic bottle sits at 80 proof, which she calls “a great place to start,” and makes “a really nice Old Fashioned.”
The Case for Woodford Reserve
Patrick Marran, general manager at Tracks Raw Bar & Grill in New York City, still backs Woodford Reserve as the introductory choice. He praises its “balance of quality-to-price” and says it showcases rickhouse and mashbill character while staying smooth.
Elizabeth Walters, general manager at Hearth and Hill Sugar House in Salt Lake City, suggests pairing Woodford Reserve with Basil Hayden so a beginner can taste the stylistic range of bourbon. Woodford’s mash is 72 percent corn; Basil Hayden carries more rye.
High Proof, Low Fuss
Nora Furst, co-owner of Buddy in San Francisco, wants adventurous beginners to try Old Grand-Dad Bonded. It is high-rye at 27 percent rye and 50 percent ABV. “She really sings in an Old Fashioned and holds her character longer than others once the ice starts melting,” Furst said.
Sebastián Moreno, beverage director at Yokai in Greensboro, N.C., picks Russell’s Reserve 10 Year at 90 proof. He says it shows “depth and complexity” without overwhelming a new drinker with alcohol heat.
Sweet, Soft, and Smooth
Daniel Navarro, beverage director at CHICA in Las Vegas, points to Maker’s Mark. Its wheated mash bill creates “a softer, sweet profile with less aggressive spice,” he said.
Dimitrios Michalopoulos, general manager at Bemelmans Bar in NYC, prefers Michter’s US*1 Kentucky Straight Bourbon for its “balance of quality, approachability, and personality.”
Bryan Schneider, beverage director at Limusina in NYC, recommends Elijah Craig Small Batch. At 94 proof, it stands up in cocktails and has a corn-heavy mash bill of 78 percent.
Buffalo Trace and the Budget Pick
Matty Brodeur, bar lead at Pedalers Fork in Calabasas, Calif., called Buffalo Trace “super affordable” and perfect for an Old Fashioned or Gold Rush. Its low rye mash bill promotes drinkability, he said.
One bartender chose Angel’s Envy “without hesitation.”
The Full List
The other bottles named: Eagle Rare 10, Bullseye Bourbon, Woodford Reserve Double Oaked, Old Forester, Rebel 100, and Four Roses Single Barrel.
Key Facts
- Four Roses Bourbon: 80 proof
- Old Grand-Dad Bonded: 50 percent ABV, 27 percent rye
- Russell’s Reserve 10 Year: 90 proof
- Elijah Craig Small Batch: 94 proof, 78 percent corn
- Woodford Reserve mash: 72 percent corn
- Bartenders surveyed: 16
The takeaway for beginners: pick a bottle, pour a glass, and start exploring.
Source: vinepair.com