When I first dipped my toes into the world of bourbon a few years ago, I felt a little lost. With so many bottles on the shelves and endless opinions about what was “the best,” I wasn’t sure where to start. That changed one evening at The Gas Works Brew Bar in Manchester, England. I spotted an open bottle of Four Roses Bourbon sitting on the shelf and decided it might well be a good beginner bourbon. I ordered a dram—and just like that, my bourbon journey began.
Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to explore bourbons from distilleries across the United States, developing a deeper appreciation for the spirit along the way. But looking back, there were a few key bottles that made all the difference—bourbons that eased me in, helped me understand what I liked, and kept me coming back for more. So today, I want to share the five bourbons that guided me through those early days—the ones I’d recommend to any beginner looking to start their own journey.
Four Roses Bourbon
BUY NOW: $20
This was the first bourbon I ever tried, and what a way to start. As stated above, I was in a fantastic little bar called The Gas Works Brew Bar in Manchester with some friends. The spot is primarily known for its beers, brewed on-site. Alas, I am not a beer girl. Instead, the Four Roses caught my eye. And I am so glad it did.
At a gentle and palatable 40% ABV (80 proof), it was the perfect bourbon to ease me in. The nose is sweet with notes of honey that reflect just how smooth it is on the palate, which is awash with the typical vanilla and caramel notes that you expect from a bourbon. There are additional notes of orchard fruits that cut through the sweetness just a little. The finish is lots and lots of lasting, warm caramel that almost coats your tongue.
With Four Roses, you know exactly what you are getting. Simple, yet delicious. I will still reach for a dram now.
Buffalo Trace Bourbon
BUY NOW: $23
Buffalo Trace Bourbon is a classic for a reason. Produced at the eponymous distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky, this bourbon is fantastic for beginners.
Like the Four Roses, it is bottled at just 40% ABV (or 45% if you are in the U.S., thanks to a commenter for pointing this out), making it super approachable. You can expect notes of caramel and vanilla as well as brown sugar, custard, chocolate, a little oak spice, and cinnamon.
Buffalo Trace also produces some incredible premium bourbons such as George T. Stagg and Blanton’s (for when your pockets are deep and your palate craves something different). However, the flagship bourbon remains a fantastic — and incredibly affordable — bourbon that should be stocked at any bar.
Rabbit Hole Dareringer PX Sherry Cask Finish
BUY NOW: $70
Taking a step up now, we enter the world of cask finishing. You may be thinking ‘How can a cask-finished bourbon be good for beginners?’. Well, just trust me on this one.
I had the pleasure of sampling this expression at the Rabbit Hole Distillery in Louisville, Kentucky. Whilst I am no stranger to sherry cask-finished scotch, this was my first such venture with bourbon.
Bottled at a slightly higher 45% ABV, this bourbon is elevated by its two-year finishing period in Pedro Ximenez sherry casks, following initial maturation in Alligator-char oak barrels. The deep char on the barrels intensifies the caramel notes on the nose, followed by a hint of sherry. The palate is rich with vanilla, red fruits, raisins, cherries, and oak. At 45% ABV, though, the texture is smooth and gentle — not too overwhelming for a bourbon beginner.
Finished bourbons might seem a little scary to someone just beginning their bourbon journey. However, finished bourbons such as Rabbit Hole Dareringer show that they don’t have to be menacing. If you pick a finish that you know you already like (i.e. if you like sherry, you’re in for a treat), then what can possibly go wrong? Give it a go!
Angel’s Envy Bourbon Port Wine Barrel Finish
BUY NOW: $37
I would be remiss if I did not mention Angel’s Envy, the world’s first bourbon brand focused entirely on finishing. Angel’s Envy caused quite a stir upon its founding, due to its cask-finishing ethos. However, since then it has grown into a nationally (and internationally) recognized brand, unafraid to experiment.
Again, I was lucky enough to sample this bourbon at the Angel’s Envy Distillery during a visit last October. Let’s just say, I am very glad that the Angel’s Envy Port Finish is available in the UK.
This bourbon is equal parts decadent and approachable. Bottled at 43.3% ABV, the whiskey burn is gentle upon first sip, and then you are hit with waves of vanilla, chocolate, ripe cherries, plums, and raspberries, brown sugar, toast, and a hint of oak. The port influence is definitely there, but it is not overpowering, with typical bourbon notes shining through the finish. To this day, this bourbon is a favorite of mine.
Wild Turkey 101
BUY NOW: $22
I know Phil Dwyer will thank me for this one, as he is a big fan of Wild Turkey. Wild Turkey 101 remains a quintessential bar must-have and is a great bourbon for beginners. Uncomplicated yet delivering delicious flavors such as brown sugar, mint, toffee, and caramel.
This bourbon is bottled at a higher ABV than any of the others I have mentioned, which might be a little daunting for new drinkers. However, here the higher proof gives the bourbon some weight on the palate, a dense but smooth texture that allows you to really explore the different notes in the bourbon.
And, of course, it is wildly affordable. Incredible value.
Start Your Bourbon Journey
So, there we have it! My personal recommendations for beginner bourbons. Do you have a favorite that I haven’t mentioned? Let me know in the comments below.
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If you do happen to try a dram of any of the above, I hope you enjoy! Cheers!
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