How to Pick the Best Bourbon
- Toni B
- 2 days ago
- 1 min read
How to Pick the Best Bourbon
Bourbon has a reputation problem. Half the bottles on the shelf are allocated unicorns you'll never find, and the other half are fine but overpriced because of hype. Here's how I actually choose.
The Framework
Proof matters more than age. 90 to 100 proof is the sweet spot for most people.
Wheated for smooth and sweet. High-rye for spice and structure.
Age statements are marketing unless the bottle is 10 years or older.
Buy what you can find, not what you can allocate.
Taste before you chase. A $30 bottle you love beats a $200 bottle you don't.
For Most People
Start with Buffalo Trace, Elijah Craig Small Batch, or Four Roses Small Batch. All three are 90 to 94 proof, widely available, and genuinely good. They teach you what bourbon is supposed to taste like before you spend real money.
What to Skip
Anything claiming to be the next Pappy. Anything over $100 that isn't allocated for a reason. Anything that tastes like vanilla extract.
Bottom Line
Proof over age, wheat or rye over hype, and your own taste over someone else's score.