Bourbon whiskey is a unique and beloved spirit, steeped in history and tradition and when it comes to bourbon, there’s no place like Kentucky. The Bluegrass State is home to some of the most iconic and acclaimed bourbon distilleries in the world, each with their own distinct style and story. In this post, we’ll be highlighting the top 5 bourbon whiskeys from Kentucky that you simply must try.
Bourbon Whiskey from Kentucky – Maker’s Mark
First on our list is the legendary Maker’s Mark. This small-batch bourbon is handcrafted using a secret recipe that has been passed down for generations. The smooth and creamy taste is a result of the unique combination of wheat, barley, and corn. The aroma is rich and complex, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and honey. Maker’s Mark is aged for six years in new, charred oak barrels, which gives it a warm and inviting finish. This bourbon is perfect for sipping neat or on the rocks, and it also pairs well with a variety of foods such as steak, chocolate, or even barbecue. Maker’s Mark is widely available and reasonably priced, making it a great choice for both bourbon aficionados and newcomers alike.
Bourbon Whiskey from Kentucky – Four Roses
Next up is the renowned Four Roses. This bourbon is made with a unique recipe that features two distinct mash bills and five proprietary yeast strains. The result is a bourbon that is both complex and balanced, with a rich and fruity aroma and a smooth and mellow taste. Four Roses is aged for a minimum of five years in new, charred oak barrels, which gives it a warm and inviting finish. It’s a great choice for sipping neat or on the rocks, and it also pairs well with a variety of foods such as dark chocolate or blue cheese. Four Roses is widely available and reasonably priced.
Woodford Reserve
Third on our list is the award-winning Woodford Reserve. This small-batch bourbon is made with a unique combination of grains and aged for at least six years in new, charred oak barrels. The result is a bourbon that is both rich and complex. Woodford Reserve is a premium brand of bourbon whiskey produced by the Brown-Forman Corporation. It is made at the Woodford Reserve Distillery, located in Woodford County, Kentucky. The distillery uses a traditional production process, including copper pot stills and barrel aging in charred white oak barrels. The whiskey is made from a mash bill of 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% malt. Woodford Reserve is known for its rich, smooth flavor profile, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak. It is considered to be one of the top-rated bourbons on the market and is often used in high-end cocktails and as a sipping whiskey.
Evan Williams
Fourth on our list is the highly acclaimed Evan Williams. Evan Williams is a brand of bourbon whiskey produced by the Heaven Hill Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky. The brand is named after Evan Williams, who is said to have been Kentucky’s first commercial distiller and operated a distillery on the banks of the Ohio River in Louisville during the late 1700s. Evan Williams is a mass-market bourbon and is one of the best-selling brands in the world. The whiskey is aged for a minimum of five years in charred oak barrels. Evan Williams is known for its smooth and easy-drinking flavor profile, with notes of caramel and vanilla. It is a value-priced bourbon that is often used in mixed drinks and as a budget-friendly option for sipping.
Wild Turkey
Last but not least is the iconic Wild Turkey. The distillery is located in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky and the brand is known for its high-proof expressions. It is aged in new American oak barrels for a minimum of six years. Wild Turkey is known for its rich and full-bodied flavor profile, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of spice. It is often considered a classic, traditional bourbon and is popular among whiskey enthusiasts. The brand’s most well-known product is the 101 proof Wild Turkey Bourbon, which is widely available and often used in cocktails, but Wild Turkey also offers a wide range of expressions, including lower proof options and limited edition releases that are aged for longer period of time..
In conclusion, bourbon whiskey is a unique and beloved spirit, steeped in history and tradition. And when it comes to bourbon, there’s no place like Kentucky. The Bluegrass State is home to some of the most iconic and acclaimed bourbon distilleries in the world, each with their own distinct style and story. The Maker’s Mark, Four Roses, Woodford Reserve, Evan Williams and Wild Turkey are some of the best in the game, and are a must-try for any bourbon lover. Each of these bourbons has its own unique recipe, aging process, and taste profile, making them a great choice for sipping neat or on the rocks, and also pairing well with a variety of foods. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon drinker or new to the world of whiskey, these five bourbons are sure to impress.
If you’re ever in Kentucky, be sure to take a tour of these distilleries and experience the rich history and tradition of bourbon-making firsthand and of course, enjoy them responsibly.