When it comes to bourbon, none is more well-known than Pappy Van Winkle. It's so expensive and difficult to come by that Netflix used it as the basis for a famous heist. The collection includes Van Winkle Special Reserve and Old Rip Van Winkle 10 Year. Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye 13 Year, Pappy Van Winkle 15 Year, and others. The Old Rip Van Winkle 10 Year, with notes of barrel-proof alcohol content and flavors of candied pecans, toasted vanilla beans, dried cherries, and oaky wood, is the most affordable (but still uncomfortably expensive). Because of the high wheat content, it's incredibly soft, mellow, and drinkable.

You only need to look at recent auction records to see how much Pappy van Winkle is adored. A bottle of Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon sold earlier this year at Sotheby's for a whopping USD$52,500 (approx. AUD$77,100), setting a new record for the label. Indeed, the price was so high that auctioneers were taken aback, with Jonny Fowle, Sotheby's head of whisky and spirits, North America and EMEA, commenting that it "went far beyond anyone's expectations."

Founded: 1994

Headquarters: 843 E Market St, Louisville, Kentucky, 40206, United States

Best-known expression: Pappy Van Winkle 23 Year

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pappyandco/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pappyco

Website: https://pappyco.com/

Woodford Reserve, located in the heart of horse racing country in Versailles, Kentucky, can trace its history back to 1812, when distilling began on the site. The whiskey drinkers' favorite brand debuted in 1996. In comparison to some sweet bourbons, Woodford Reserve is well-known for its high-rye mash bill, making it an excellent accompaniment to the classic Old Fashioned cocktail or Mint Julep.

While it is made up of 72% corn and 10% malted barley, its expressions get a healthy kick of spice from the 18% inclusion. If you're unfamiliar with the brand, we recommend starting with its classic Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon. One of the market's most complex, flavorful, and reasonably priced whiskeys. Woodford Reserve, on the other hand, is serving up some serious A-grade fare, namely the Master Collection. We were fortunate enough to obtain the 2021 edition, which was limited to only 700 bottles available nationwide. The 15th edition of the Master's Collection, which was created to honor the creations of the 1812 distillery site where Woodford Reserve is now located, was released. Furthermore, if you're willing to pay a little more, the Double Oaked release adds a touch of luxury.

But if you really want a taste of Woodford Reserve's top drop, the Woodford Reserve Baccarat Edition is unrivaled. This distinctive Kentucky bourbon is finished in XO Cognac oak, housed in a striking Baccarat crystal glass decanter, and available for a cheeky AUD$3,000.

Founded: 1996

Headquarters: 7785 Mccracken Pike, Versailles, Kentucky, 40383, United States

Best-known expression: Woodford Reserve Straight
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/woodfordreserve/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/woodfordreserve
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/woodfordreserve
Website: https://www.woodfordreserve.com/

When you think of single malts, you might not immediately think of the United States. Obviously, Scotland and Japan are much better known for that style. Westward, with its collection of award-winning single malts, is attempting to change that. If you're new to American single-malt whiskey, its award-winning Westward American Single Malt Whiskey is a good place to start. If you're feeling daring, try its Westward Whiskey Stout Cask, a single malt whiskey that was aged for an additional year in barrels that previously held stout beer. As a result, the whiskey is rich and indulgent, with notes of dark chocolate, candied walnuts, and rich vanilla.

Aside from the standard releases, fans of great American whiskey should look out for the Opacus Stout Cask. The limited release was the result of a collaboration between Westward's Miles Munroe and Stormbreaker Brewing. For this particular drop, the pair used a matured Westward American Single Malt and finished it in a Stormbreaker Brewing Opacus Oatmeal Stout Barrel for an additional year.

This process, according to Westward, adds layers to the whiskey, with subtle cocoa and caramel notes from the Opacus Oatmeal Stout complementing the bold and brazen taste of Westward Whiskey. Or, for something a little more tropical, try the Westward American Single Malt Rum Cask, a whiskey aged in barrels seasoned with all-natural, cane-to-glass rum.

Founded: 2004

Headquarters: 65 SE Washington St, Portland, Oregon, 97214, United States

Best-known expression: Westward American Single Malt Whiskey
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/westwardwhiskey/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WestwardWhiskey/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@westwardwhiskey
Website: https://westwardwhiskey.com/

Wild Turkey is a unique brand. This Kentucky-based bourbon brand is well-known for its budget bourbon as well as being a favorite of Hollywood A-lister Matthew McConaughey. However, the label also has a slew of surprisingly low-cost, highly-rated, nuanced offerings like Wild Turkey Rare Breed. This barrel-proof, small-batch bourbon is a blend of six, eight, and twelve-year-old whiskeys. As a result, the bourbon is complex and highly drinkable, with notes of honey, dried fruits, toffee, candied almonds, oak, and light spices.

Aside from Rare Breed, the Wild Turkey portfolio is a veritable bourbon buffet. The Master Keep One is a well-received release that offers rich and nostalgic aromas of sweet honey and brown spice, complimented by a delicate toasted and charred oak. Meanwhile, the addition of mesquite charcoal to the filtration process gave the Longbranch collection a sweet and smoky flavor.

Wild Turkey's 17-year-old Bottled-in-Bond, on the other hand, gave the brand new life. Only the second Wild Turkey bourbon to bear the bottled-in-bond label, this release was the result of a single distilling season from a single distillery, aged in a federally bonded warehouse in the United States, and artfully bottled at 100 proof, according to the label.

Founded: 1855

Headquarters: 1417 Versaille Rd, Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, 40342, United States

Best-known expression: Wild Turkey 101
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildturkey/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wildturkey
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/wtbourbon
Website: https://www.wildturkeybourbon.com/

Jim Beam is a renowned American whiskey brand with a long and esteemed history in the world of spirits. Founded in 1795 by Jacob Beam, it is one of the oldest bourbon whiskey distilleries in Kentucky, USA. Jim Beam has become synonymous with quality bourbon and is highly regarded for its craftsmanship, rich flavor profiles, and commitment to tradition.

The brand's flagship product is Jim Beam Bourbon, a classic American bourbon whiskey made from a mash bill predominantly consisting of corn. It undergoes a meticulous aging process in new charred oak barrels, allowing the spirit to develop its distinctive flavors and smooth character. Jim Beam Bourbon is known for its balanced sweetness, notes of caramel and vanilla, and a touch of oak.

Over the years, Jim Beam has expanded its range to include a variety of expressions, catering to different tastes and preferences. This includes Jim Beam Black, a premium aged bourbon with bolder flavors, and Jim Beam Devil's Cut, which utilizes a unique extraction process to enhance rich, deep flavors from the barrel. Jim Beam also offers flavored variations such as Jim Beam Honey and Jim Beam Apple, which infuse the bourbon with natural flavors for a unique twist.

The brand's commitment to quality and craftsmanship has been passed down through generations of the Beam family. Today, Jim Beam continues to uphold its time-honored traditions while embracing innovation to meet the evolving preferences of whiskey enthusiasts worldwide. Jim Beam has earned numerous accolades and has a strong presence in the global whiskey market. Its smooth and versatile bourbons have made it a popular choice for sipping neat, on the rocks, or as the foundation for classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned and the Whiskey Sour.

Founded: 1795

Headquarters: 222 Merchandise Mart Plz Ste 1600 Chicago, IL, 60654-4262 United States

Best-known expression: Jim Beam White Label
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jimbeam/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JimBeam
Website: https://www.jimbeam.com/en

Michter's is a prestigious American whiskey brand that has gained a reputation for producing high-quality, small-batch whiskeys. The brand traces its roots back to 1753, making it one of the oldest distilleries in the United States. Michter's has a rich history and has experienced periods of closure and revival, but it has consistently maintained a commitment to crafting exceptional whiskeys.

Michter's is known for its meticulous attention to detail and traditional production methods. The brand focuses on sourcing the finest ingredients and employs a slow and deliberate distillation process to create its distinctive spirits. Each small-batch release is carefully crafted and aged to perfection, resulting in a range of premium whiskeys that showcase complexity, depth of flavor, and smoothness.

The Michter's lineup includes a variety of bourbon, rye, and American whiskey expressions. Michter's Bourbon is highly regarded for its rich and full-bodied profile, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. Michter's US1 Rye offers a spicy and robust flavor profile, reflecting the brand's expertise in producing rye whiskey. Michter's American Whiskey is a unique blend that combines bourbon and rye characteristics, resulting in a smooth and approachable whiskey with a touch of sweetness.

Michter's has earned numerous accolades and critical acclaim for its whiskeys, garnering recognition for their craftsmanship and exceptional quality. The brand's commitment to excellence extends to every aspect of production, from grain selection to barrel aging, resulting in a portfolio of spirits that appeal to whiskey enthusiasts and connoisseurs. Due to their small-batch nature and limited production, Michter's whiskeys are highly sought-after and often considered collector's items. The brand's dedication to quality and consistency has helped it carve a special place in the world of American whiskey and has earned it a loyal following of discerning whiskey lovers.

Founded: 1753

Headquarters: 2351 New Millennium Dr, Louisville, Kentucky, 40216, United States

Best-known expression: Michter’s 10 Year
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michterswhiskey/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michterswhiskey/
Website: https://michters.com/

Old Forester is a well-respected American bourbon whiskey brand with a legacy that dates back to 1870. It is one of the oldest continuously operated distilleries in the United States and has played a significant role in shaping the bourbon industry. Old Forester takes pride in its craftsmanship, using traditional methods and high-quality ingredients to create its range of bourbons. The brand is known for its commitment to consistency, as each bottle of Old Forester is crafted from a single, consistent flavor profile. This approach ensures that consumers can rely on the taste and character of Old Forester bourbons from bottle to bottle.

The flagship expression of Old Forester is Old Forester 86 Proof, a classic bourbon with a smooth and approachable flavor profile. It features notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, embodying the traditional characteristics associated with bourbon whiskey. Old Forester also offers a variety of other expressions to cater to different preferences and occasions. This includes the Old Forester 100 Proof, a higher-proof bourbon with a bolder flavor profile and added intensity. The Old Forester Signature 100 Proof is another notable expression, known for its rich and complex flavors. Additionally, the brand occasionally releases limited-edition and special-release bottlings that showcase unique maturation techniques or experimental flavor profiles.

Old Forester has received recognition for its quality and craftsmanship, earning numerous accolades and awards within the bourbon industry. The brand's commitment to traditional bourbon-making techniques, combined with its rich history and reputation, has solidified its position as a respected and sought-after name among bourbon enthusiasts.

Founded: 1870

Headquarters: 119 W Main St, Louisville, Kentucky, 40202, United States

Best-known expression: Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oldforester/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/oldforester
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkksXY6QDxyMur-5B5hTjYw
Website: https://www.oldforester.com/

Even if you don't know much about American whiskey, you've probably heard of Jack Daniel's. This Tennessee whiskey is arguably the world's most popular brand (other than Jim Beam). While the Lynchburg, Tennessee-based distillery produces many notable expressions, none is as well-known as the classic Old No. 7. This charcoal-mellowed, white oak-aged whiskey is well-known for its sweet corn, vanilla, caramel, and charred wood flavor profile.

If you want to venture off the beaten path, Jack Daniel's has expanded in recent years. Tennessee Apple Whiskey, a spin on the ambitious cocktail favorite that many have come to love, was released in 2019. The brand then released Jack Daniel's Bonded Tennessee Whiskey, its first super premium' whiskey in over 25 years. This release was crafted using barrels hand-selected for their unique and particular characteristics of deeper color, flavor, and aroma, which bring a darker, richer, and more oak-forward character, as the first permanent expression in its new Bonded Series. According to Jack Daniel's master distiller, Chris Fletcher, the goal was to do something different for the iconic American whiskey.

Founded: 1875

Headquarters: 280 Lynchburg Hwy, Lynchburg, TN 37352, USA.

Best-known expression: Old No.7
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/JackDaniels_US/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jackdaniels
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/JackDaniels
Website: https://www.jackdaniels.com/

If you ask a bourbon drinker in the United States to name one bourbon they've always wanted to try but can't find for a remotely reasonable price, they'll almost certainly mention Blanton's. Blanton's, dubbed the "original single barrel bourbon," was founded in 1984 by famed master distiller Elmer T. Lee. He was the first to select specific barrels from which to make whiskey. Its Original Single Barrel, which is still made the same way today, is known for its flavors of candied orange peels, rich oak, vanilla beans, and sweet caramel.

Most recently, the company announced that its classic Straight From The Barrel whiskey would be available in international markets beginning in 2022. The American whiskey is bottled in the 120 proof range and is an uncut, unfiltered expression made from the same recipe as other Blanton whiskeys. According to Buffalo Trace, the whiskey has a nose of dark chocolate, caramel, and butter, with undertones of walnut and hazelnut. The Straight From The Barrel expression has notes of warm vanilla, oak, toasted nuts, and hints of butterscotch and honey in the flavor profile.

Founded: 1984

Headquarters: 74 Squires Rd, Lexington, Kentucky, 40515, United States

Best-known expression: Original Single Barrel
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blantons_bourbon/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlantonsBourbon/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0kcu9rIVUR21rDEdOyH68g
Website: https://www.blantonsbourbon.com/

High West is a renowned American whiskey brand that has made a name for itself in the world of craft spirits. Founded in 2006 by David Perkins in Park City, Utah, High West has become synonymous with exceptional quality and innovative flavor profiles. Their commitment to traditional distillation methods, locally sourced ingredients, and meticulous aging techniques sets them apart. High West's small-batch, handcrafted whiskeys, such as the popular Double Rye! and American Prairie Bourbon, showcase their expertise in blending and aging.

Additionally, their Campfire whiskey, a unique blend of bourbon, rye, and peated Scotch, highlights their creativity in creating complex and memorable flavor experiences. With accolades and awards under their belt, High West continues to captivate whiskey enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike with their exceptional craftsmanship and dedication to producing outstanding American whiskeys.

Founded: 2006
Headquarters: 27649 Old Lincoln Hwy, Wanship, Utah, 84017, United States
Best-known expression: High West High Country American Single Malt
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drinkhighwest/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drinkhighwest
Website: https://highwest.com/

Maker's Mark is a well-known American bourbon whiskey brand that has gained a reputation for its distinctive flavor and iconic red wax-dipped bottles. Established in 1953 in Loretto, Kentucky, Maker's Mark has remained true to its traditional production methods and commitment to quality. Maker's Mark is crafted using a mash bill that consists primarily of corn, along with malted barley and a small amount of red winter wheat. This unique combination of grains contributes to its smooth and mellow taste. The whiskey is distilled using traditional copper pot stills and aged in new, charred American white oak barrels to develop its rich flavors and amber color.

What sets Maker's Mark apart is its attention to detail and handcrafted approach. Each bottle is sealed with the brand's signature red wax, which is hand-dipped to create a distinct and recognizable appearance. The wax seal also serves as a symbol of the brand's commitment to delivering a premium and authentic product. Maker's Mark offers a range of expressions, including their flagship Maker's Mark Bourbon, which is known for its balanced sweetness and notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. They also produce limited-edition releases and variations, such as Maker's Mark 46, which undergoes additional aging with seared French oak staves to enhance its complexity.

With its rich heritage and dedication to craftsmanship, Maker's Mark has become a beloved bourbon brand both in the United States and around the world. It continues to be cherished by whiskey enthusiasts for its smooth flavor, iconic packaging, and the timeless traditions it represents.

Founded: 1953
Headquarters: 3350 Burkes Spring Rd Loretto, KY 40037 United States
Best-known expression: Maker’s 46
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/makersmark/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/makersmark
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/makersmark
Website: https://www.makersmark.com/

Booker's is a highly regarded American bourbon whiskey brand known for its robust flavor and high proof offerings. Named after Booker Noe, the grandson of Jim Beam and a legendary figure in the whiskey industry, Booker's embodies his commitment to producing bold and unfiltered expressions. Booker's bourbon is crafted in small batches and is uncut and unfiltered, allowing the full intensity of the whiskey's flavors to shine through. It is aged for a minimum of six years in charred American white oak barrels, which contributes to its rich and complex character.

One of the distinguishing features of Booker's is its high proof. The whiskeys are typically bottled at barrel strength, meaning they retain the alcohol content at which they were originally aged. This results in a robust and powerful flavor profile, often with notes of vanilla, caramel, oak, and spice. Booker's releases are known for their limited availability and unique names that reflect the individual batches. Each batch is carefully selected by the master distiller to showcase the best qualities of the whiskey. The brand has gained a dedicated following among bourbon enthusiasts who appreciate its boldness, craftsmanship, and the opportunity to experience the whiskey in its purest form.

In addition to their standard Booker's bourbon releases, the brand occasionally offers special editions and limited releases that showcase different flavor profiles and aging techniques. These expressions provide whiskey aficionados with an opportunity to explore the brand's versatility and further appreciate the depth and complexity of Booker's bourbon.

Founded: 1988
Headquarters: 5790 Broadway, Bronx, NY 10463, United States
Best-known expression: Small Batch Collection
Website: https://www.bookersbourbon.com/

Angel's Envy is a premium bourbon whiskey brand that has gained recognition for its unique approach to aging and finishing its spirits. Founded in 2010 by industry veteran Lincoln Henderson and his son Wes Henderson, Angel's Envy has quickly become a notable name in the world of American whiskey. Angel's Envy is known for its meticulous craftsmanship and innovative finishing techniques. The brand starts with a high-quality blend of corn, rye, and malted barley, which is distilled in traditional copper pot stills. The bourbon is then aged in new, charred American oak barrels, as is customary for bourbon production.

What sets Angel's Envy apart is its finishing process. After the initial aging period, the bourbon is transferred to specially selected port wine barrels for an additional period of maturation. This finishing step imparts unique flavors and complexities to the whiskey, resulting in a distinctively smooth and rich profile. The brand's flagship product, Angel's Envy Bourbon, is known for its well-balanced character, showcasing notes of vanilla, caramel, dried fruits, and a hint of spice. In addition to their bourbon, Angel's Envy has expanded its portfolio to include other expressions such as rye whiskey and limited-edition releases, allowing whiskey enthusiasts to explore different flavor profiles and finishes.

Angel's Envy has gained a loyal following due to its commitment to craftsmanship, attention to detail, and willingness to experiment with finishing techniques. The brand's dedication to producing high-quality, handcrafted spirits has earned it numerous accolades and recognition within the whiskey community.

Founded: 2006

Headquarters: 500 E Main St, Louisville, Kentucky, 40202, United States
Best-known expression: Small Batch Collection
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelsenvy/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AngelsEnvyBourbon/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCy9AL2A8OzcXAfnmANuuK9A
Website: https://www.angelsenvy.com/us/en/