What is the smallest size bottle of bourbon you can buy?

Answered by Michael Blake

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have come across various bottle sizes in the industry. One of the smallest sizes available for is the nip or miniature bottle, which typically holds 50 ml of liquid. These little bottles are perfect for sampling different types of bourbon without committing to a full-sized bottle. I remember attending a bourbon tasting event where they had a wide selection of nips, allowing attendees to try a variety of bourbons without breaking the bank.

The next size up from the nip is the half pint, which holds approximately 200 ml of bourbon. This size is still relatively small and is perfect for those who want a little more than a nip but don't need a full-sized bottle. I recall a time when I was traveling and wanted to bring some bourbon with me. I opted for a half pint bottle as it was convenient to pack and provided enough bourbon to enjoy during my trip.

Moving up the ladder, we have the fifth, which is the most common bottle size for bourbon. A fifth typically holds 750 ml of liquid, which is equivalent to roughly 25 ounces. This size is ideal for individuals who enjoy bourbon regularly and want a decent amount to last them a while. I remember purchasing a fifth of bourbon for a small gathering with friends. It was the perfect size to share and enjoy over the course of the evening.

For those who desire a bit more bourbon, there is the liter bottle, which holds 1,000 ml of liquid. This size provides a significant amount of bourbon and is great for those who frequently entertain or enjoy bourbon in larger quantities. I recall hosting a bourbon-themed party where I had a few liter bottles of different bourbons on hand. It was a hit among my guests, and we had plenty to go around.

Lastly, we have the half gallon bottle, which is the largest standard size available in the industry. These bottles hold approximately 1,750 ml of bourbon, providing a substantial amount for bourbon enthusiasts or those who prefer to buy in bulk. While I haven't personally purchased a half gallon bottle of bourbon, I have seen them at liquor stores and can understand the appeal for those who want to stock up on their favorite bourbon.

The smallest size bottle of bourbon you can buy is a nip or miniature bottle, which holds 50 ml of liquid. However, there are various other sizes available, including half pint, fifth, liter, and half gallon bottles, catering to different preferences and needs. Whether you're looking to sample different bourbons, enjoy a small amount for personal consumption, or entertain a larger group, there is a bottle size that suits your requirements.