Best Beginner Bourbons: Top 8 Picks with Tasting Notes and Recommendations

Best Beginner Bourbons: Top 8 Picks with Tasting Notes and Recommendations

Table of Contents

Introduction to Best Beginner Bourbons

When it comes to exploring the world of bourbon as a beginner, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That’s why it’s crucial to begin with bourbons that are widely available, lower in proof, and offer a variety of flavor profiles. The key is to sample different options to figure out what you enjoy and then delve deeper into those preferences.

Some great beginner bourbons to consider include Evan Williams Bottle and Bond, Buffalo Trace, Benchmark Small Batch, Eagle Rare, Old Forester 86 Proof, Elijah Craig Small Batch, Four Roses Single Barrel, and Wild Turkey 101. These selections range from 86 to 100 proof, providing a diverse tasting experience for beginners to discover their preferred bourbon characteristics. So, grab a bottle, pour a dram, and start your bourbon journey with these fantastic options!

Criteria for Selecting Beginner Bourbons

When selecting bourbons for beginners, it is important to consider factors such as availability, proof, and flavor variety. Opting for widely available bourbons that are lower in proof (up to 100 proof) can provide a smoother introduction to the world of bourbon. Additionally, choosing bourbons with different flavor profiles allows beginners to explore and discover their preferences.

By sampling bourbons like Evan Williams Bottle and Bond, Buffalo Trace, Benchmark Small Batch, Eagle Rare, Old Forester 86 Proof, Elijah Craig Small Batch, Four Roses Single Barrel, and Wild Turkey 101, beginners can experience a range of tasting notes and characteristics. These selections offer a diverse tasting experience while still being accessible to those new to bourbon.

Evan Williams Bottle and Bond

One great option for beginners to explore in the world of bourbon is Evan Williams Bottle and Bond. With a proof of 100, this bourbon offers a fantastic starting point for those looking to experience a higher proof whiskey. Despite being affordable, around $18 in some areas, Evan Williams Bottle and Bond provides complexity and interesting flavors that can help beginners understand what a higher proof bourbon tastes like.

This bourbon showcases a unique flavor profile with notes of oakiness and a touch of tobacco. By trying Evan Williams Bottle and Bond, beginners can start to identify their preferences and determine if they enjoy these particular tasting notes. Additionally, the bottle and bond designation ensures a level of quality and consistency, making it a reliable choice for those new to bourbon.

Buffalo Trace

Buffalo Trace is a popular choice for beginner bourbon enthusiasts, offering a smooth and sweet flavor profile. Produced by one of the most renowned distilleries, Buffalo Trace is known for its approachable taste, making it an excellent entry point for those new to bourbon. With a proof of 90, this bourbon provides a balanced drinking experience without overwhelming the palate.

Featuring notes of red fruit and minimal oakiness, Buffalo Trace appeals to a wide range of palates, making it an ideal option for beginners looking to explore different bourbon flavors. While it may require a bit of effort to find a bottle in some areas, the search is well worth it for the experience this bourbon offers. Priced around $25, Buffalo Trace provides excellent value for its quality and taste, making it a must-try for anyone embarking on their bourbon journey.

Benchmark Small Batch

Benchmark Small Batch, produced by Buffalo Trace, offers a smooth and approachable bourbon experience. At 90 proof, this bourbon provides a balanced tasting profile that is perfect for beginners looking to explore the world of bourbon. While not as complex as some other options, Benchmark Small Batch still delivers a quality whiskey with a familiar flavor profile.

With subtle notes of oak, Benchmark Small Batch offers a straightforward bourbon experience without overwhelming the palate. This bourbon is widely available in many areas, making it a convenient choice for those starting their bourbon journey. Priced affordably, Benchmark Small Batch provides an excellent introduction to the world of bourbon without breaking the bank.

Eagle Rare

Eagle Rare, produced by Buffalo Trace, offers a unique bourbon experience with a touch of grape notes that set it apart from other beginner-friendly options. At 90 proof, this bourbon provides a balanced drinking experience that may appeal to those who prefer a slightly bitter flavor profile. With a 10-year aging process, Eagle Rare offers exceptional value for its quality and taste, typically priced around $30.

While some may find Eagle Rare initially less appealing, over time, many develop a deep appreciation for its complexity and flavor profile. Whether you opt for a standard bottle or a store pick variation, Eagle Rare provides a solid introduction to bourbon with its distinctive grape notes and smooth finish. If you come across a bottle for less than $50, it’s worth trying to experience the rich flavors and aging process of this exceptional bourbon.

Old Forester 86 Proof

Old Forester 86 Proof is a classic bourbon that is widely available and offers a smooth and easy-drinking experience for beginners. With a lower proof of 86, this bourbon provides a gentle introduction to the world of bourbon, allowing newcomers to explore different flavor profiles without overwhelming their palate.

Known for its classic bourbon characteristics, Old Forester 86 Proof is a reliable choice for those starting their bourbon journey. The whiskey showcases a timeless flavor profile that includes subtle notes of oak and a touch of sweetness, making it an approachable option for beginners to enjoy.

Priced affordably and readily accessible in most areas, Old Forester 86 Proof is a great starting point for those looking to discover their preferences in bourbon. Whether you’re new to bourbon or looking to expand your palate, this bourbon offers a familiar yet enjoyable tasting experience that can help you determine your bourbon preferences.

Elijah Craig Small Batch

For beginners looking to explore the world of bourbon, Elijah Craig Small Batch is a great place to start. With a proof of 94, this bourbon offers a balance of complexity and oakiness that can help beginners understand different flavor profiles. Priced affordably, around $30, Elijah Craig Small Batch provides a solid introduction to the world of bourbon without breaking the bank.

Known for its Oaky nuttiness, Elijah Craig Small Batch offers a unique tasting experience that can help beginners determine their preferences. By trying this bourbon, newcomers can start to identify if they enjoy the oak flavors that are prominent in this whiskey. The 94 proof provides a slightly higher proof experience compared to other beginner bourbons, allowing for a diverse tasting journey for those new to bourbon.

Four Roses Single Barrel

Four Roses Single Barrel is a straightforward bourbon that offers a sweeter profile, making it an easy-to-drink option for beginners. With a proof of 100, this bourbon provides a diverse tasting experience with a lot of rye spice notes. Each bottle of Four Roses Single Barrel may vary slightly due to its single barrel nature, allowing beginners to explore different flavor profiles within the same brand.

Featuring a unique hang tag with a leather accent that may be a bit cumbersome, Four Roses Single Barrel offers a rich and flavorful experience. The high rye content in this bourbon contributes to its spicy character, allowing beginners to determine if they enjoy those particular spice notes. While the specific mash bill may vary, Four Roses Single Barrel typically leans towards their high rye bill, providing a distinct tasting experience.

Overall, Four Roses Single Barrel is a great whiskey to consider for beginners looking to expand their palate. With its balanced flavors and noticeable rye spice, this bourbon can help newcomers identify their preferences and delve deeper into the world of bourbon. Give Four Roses Single Barrel a try to discover your unique bourbon palate and enjoy a flavorful drinking experience!

Wild Turkey 101

Wild Turkey 101 is a great option for those looking to explore bourbons as beginners. With a proof of 101, this bourbon offers a higher proof experience that can help newcomers understand the impact of proof on flavor. Priced affordably, typically under $25, Wild Turkey 101 provides a fantastic value for the quality and taste it delivers.

This bourbon showcases a notable oakiness that is characteristic of Wild Turkey whiskeys. While the oakiness may come across as slightly bitter to some, it strikes a nice balance with the sweetness of the bourbon, creating a complex flavor profile that can be intriguing for beginners to explore. By trying Wild Turkey 101, novices can determine if they enjoy the oak flavors and bitterness that this bourbon offers.

Overall, Wild Turkey 101 is a versatile bourbon that can serve as a solid introduction to higher proof whiskeys. Whether you appreciate the oakiness and balance of flavors or find it slightly bitter, trying Wild Turkey 101 can help you identify your preferences and further enrich your bourbon journey. Give this bourbon a pour and share your thoughts on its unique tasting experience!

FAQ Section

What criteria were used to select the best beginner bourbons?

The selection of beginner bourbons was based on factors such as availability, proof, and flavor variety. Bourbons that are widely available, lower in proof (up to 100 proof), and offer different flavor profiles were chosen to provide a diverse tasting experience for beginners.

Why is it important to start with lower proof bourbons as a beginner?

Starting with lower proof bourbons is crucial for beginners to ease into the world of bourbon without overwhelming their palate. Lower proof bourbons provide a smoother drinking experience and allow newcomers to explore different flavor profiles without the intense burn associated with higher proof whiskeys.

How can sampling different bourbons help beginners discover their preferences?

Sampling a variety of bourbons allows beginners to explore and identify their preferred flavor profiles. By trying different options, beginners can determine if they enjoy certain tasting notes, such as oakiness, sweetness, or spice, helping them narrow down their bourbon preferences.

Are the recommended beginner bourbons affordable and readily accessible?

Yes, the recommended beginner bourbons are affordable and widely available in most areas. They offer excellent value for their quality and taste, making them ideal choices for those new to bourbon. Prices typically range from $18 to $30, providing beginners with budget-friendly options to start their bourbon journey.

 

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