When it comes to choosing the best bourbon to buy as a gift, there are several factors to consider. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a splurge-worthy choice, there’s a bourbon out there to suit every taste and preference. As an avid bourbon enthusiast, I have compiled a list of the top seven bourbons to gift this holiday season, taking into account different price ranges and flavor profiles.
1. Larceny Kentucky Straight Very Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey: For those on a budget, Larceny is an excellent choice. This bourbon offers a smooth and approachable flavor profile, with notes of caramel, honey, and vanilla. Despite its affordable price, Larceny delivers a high-quality experience, making it a great gift for both bourbon beginners and connoisseurs.
2. Knob Creek 15 Year Old: If you’re willing to splurge on a truly exceptional bourbon, Knob Creek 15 Year Old is a fantastic option. Aged for an extended period, this bourbon showcases rich flavors of oak, dark chocolate, and toasted nuts. With its complex and full-bodied profile, Knob Creek 15 Year Old is sure to impress any bourbon lover.
3. Basil Hayden’s Kentucky Straight: For those new to the world of bourbon, Basil Hayden’s is a great introductory option. This bourbon is known for its smooth and approachable taste, offering a balanced combination of spicy rye, sweet caramel, and hints of citrus. Its light and gentle character make it an ideal choice for sipping neat or in cocktails.
4. Wilderness Trail Small Batch Bourbon Bottled in Bond: For the whiskey geeks on your gifting list, Wilderness Trail Small Batch Bourbon Bottled in Bond is a must-try. This bourbon is crafted using traditional methods and adheres to the strict regulations of the Bottled in Bond Act. It offers a unique flavor profile with notes of dark fruit, baking spices, and a hint of smoke. With its attention to detail and exceptional quality, Wilderness Trail is sure to impress any bourbon enthusiast.
5. Four Roses Single Barrel: If you’re looking for a bourbon with a distinct flavor profile, Four Roses Single Barrel is a great choice. Each bottle is hand-selected from a single barrel, ensuring a unique and nuanced taste experience. With its smooth and rich flavors of caramel, vanilla, and spices, Four Roses Single Barrel is a gift that will be appreciated by any bourbon lover.
6. Angel’s Envy Kentucky Straight Bourbon: For those who appreciate a touch of luxury, Angel’s Envy is an excellent option. This bourbon is finished in port wine casks, imparting a unique and velvety smoothness. With its rich and complex flavors of dark fruit, caramel, and oak, Angel’s Envy is a gift that exudes elegance and sophistication.
7. Woodford Reserve Double Oaked: If you’re looking for a bourbon with a twist, Woodford Reserve Double Oaked is a fantastic choice. This bourbon undergoes a second maturation process in heavily toasted and lightly charred oak barrels, resulting in a rich and robust flavor profile. With its notes of caramel, dark chocolate, and toasted oak, Woodford Reserve Double Oaked offers a unique and memorable taste experience.
When choosing the best bourbon to buy as a gift, it’s important to consider the recipient’s preferences and budget. Whether you opt for a budget-friendly option like Larceny or splurge on a bottle of Knob Creek 15 Year Old, gifting a bottle of bourbon is sure to bring joy to any whiskey enthusiast.