As an expert sommelier and brewer, I've had the opportunity to taste and experience a wide range of bourbons. While it's always exciting to discover new and unique expressions, there are a few bourbons that I believe will be worth seeking out in 2023. These bourbons offer exceptional quality, flavor, and value, making them standout choices for both enthusiasts and newcomers to the bourbon world.
1. Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon: This bourbon has long been a favorite of mine, and it continues to impress with its rich and complex flavor profile. At 94 proof, it delivers a balanced and silky experience that is hard to beat. With notes of maple-pecan pralines and peanut brittle, it offers a delightful sweetness that is perfectly complemented by its oak and spice undertones. What sets Elijah Craig Small Batch apart is its incredible value, as it can be found for well under $30. It's a bourbon that tastes like it should cost much more, making it a fantastic choice for those looking for quality without breaking the bank.
2. Four Roses Single Barrel: Four Roses is a distillery known for producing exceptional bourbon, and their Single Barrel expression is no exception. Each barrel is carefully selected and bottled individually, resulting in a bourbon that showcases the unique characteristics of that particular barrel. This attention to detail and craftsmanship is evident in the flavors of Four Roses Single Barrel, which often feature notes of ripe fruits, caramel, and vanilla. It's a bourbon that offers complexity and depth, making it a great choice for savoring and exploring the nuances of bourbon.
3. Blanton's Single Barrel Bourbon: Blanton's is a bourbon that has gained a cult following in recent years, and for good reason. It's a single barrel bourbon that is carefully selected and bottled at a robust 93 proof. The flavor profile of Blanton's is often described as rich and full-bodied, with notes of caramel, citrus, and oak. What sets Blanton's apart is its unique bottle design, featuring a collectible horse and jockey stopper. It's a bourbon that not only tastes great but also adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any whiskey collection.
4. Wild Turkey Rare Breed: For those who enjoy bold and robust flavors, Wild Turkey Rare Breed is a bourbon that should not be overlooked. Bottled at barrel proof, which can vary from batch to batch, this bourbon packs a punch with its high alcohol content. However, it also delivers a depth of flavor that is hard to match. With notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice, Wild Turkey Rare Breed offers a complex and intense tasting experience. It's a bourbon that demands attention and rewards those who are willing to explore its rich flavors.
5. Maker's Mark Private Select: Maker's Mark is a well-known bourbon brand, but their Private Select expression takes things to a whole new level. This bourbon is created through a unique process where customers can participate in selecting the flavor profile of their own bottle. By choosing different types of wood staves to be added to the aging process, customers can customize their bourbon to suit their individual preferences. The result is a bourbon that offers a wide range of flavors, from caramel and vanilla to baking spices and toasted oak. It's a truly personalized bourbon experience that is sure to impress.
The bourbons mentioned above are just a few examples of the exciting options to look for in 2023. Each offers its own unique qualities and flavor profiles, providing a diverse range of choices for bourbon enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for value, complexity, boldness, or customization, these bourbons are sure to satisfy your whiskey cravings. Cheers to a year of great bourbon discoveries!