Are you a bourbon enthusiast looking for the best Colorado bourbon whiskey brands to try? Look no further! Colorado has become a hub for craft distilleries, producing some of the best bourbon whiskeys in the country. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 Colorado bourbon whiskey brands that you should add to your must-try list.
With so many Colorado bourbon whiskey brands to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That’s why we’ve done the research for you. Our list is based on expert reviews, customer ratings, and overall popularity. So, you can trust that each brand on our list is worth trying. Get ready to experience the best of Colorado’s bourbon whiskey scene and discover your new favorite brand.
Table of Contents
Unique Features of Colorado Bourbon
If you’re a bourbon lover, you might want to try Colorado bourbons. The Centennial State’s rocky mountain terrain and high altitude contribute to the unique flavors and smooth finish of Colorado bourbons. Here are some of the unique features of Colorado bourbon that make it stand out from the rest.
High Altitude
Colorado’s high altitude affects the aging process of bourbon. The dry climate and low humidity cause the bourbon to evaporate faster, which intensifies the flavors and gives it a distinct taste. The high altitude also slows down the aging process, which allows the bourbon to mature longer, resulting in a smoother finish.
Unique Flavors
Colorado bourbon is known for its unique flavors, which are influenced by the state’s terroir. The rocky mountain terrain, high altitude, and dry climate contribute to the distinct taste of Colorado bourbons. Some of the common flavors you’ll find in Colorado bourbons include caramel, vanilla, and oak, with a hint of spice.
Small Batch Bourbon
Many Colorado distilleries produce small batch bourbon, which means they only produce a limited amount of bourbon at a time. This allows them to focus on quality rather than quantity and gives them more control over the aging process. Small batch bourbons are often more complex and have a richer flavor than mass-produced bourbons.
Colorado bourbon is a must-try for any bourbon lover. Its unique features, such as high altitude and small batch production, contribute to its distinct taste and smooth finish. So, the next time you’re looking for a new bourbon to try, consider a Colorado bourbon and taste the difference for yourself.
Top 10 Colorado Bourbon
From Leopold Bros. to Laws Whiskey House, the state is home to a variety of distilleries that produce high-quality bourbon. Here are the top 10 Colorado bourbon brands that you should try.
1. Leopold Bros.
photo credit: www.leopoldbros.com
This Denver-based distillery is known for its Bottled in Bond Straight Bourbon Whiskey. This bourbon is made from a mash bill of corn, rye, and malted barley, and is aged for four years in charred oak barrels. The result is a smooth and complex bourbon with notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice.
2. Distillery 291
photo credit: distillery291.com
Located in Colorado Springs, Distillery 291 produces a Small Batch Colorado Bourbon Whiskey that is aged for at least two years in new American oak barrels. This bourbon has a rich, full-bodied flavor with notes of honey, vanilla, and oak.
3. Breckenridge Distillery
photo credit: breckenridgedistillery.com
Breckenridge is one of the most popular bourbon brands in Colorado, and for good reason. Their Rum Cask Finish Bourbon Whiskey is aged for four years and finished in rum casks, giving it a unique flavor profile with notes of caramel, vanilla, and tropical fruit.
4. Laws Whiskey House
photo credit: lawswhiskeyhouse.com
Laws is a craft distillery located in Denver that produces a Four Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey. This bourbon is made from a mash bill of corn, wheat, rye, and barley, and is aged for at least four years in new American oak barrels. It has a smooth, rich flavor with notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice.
5. Woody Creek
photo credit: woodycreekdistillers.com
Woody Creek is a distillery located in Basalt that produces a Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey. This bourbon is made from a mash bill of corn, rye, and malted barley, and is aged for at least two years in new American oak barrels. It has a smooth, mellow flavor with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak.
6. Boulder Spirits
photo credit: boulderspirits.com
Boulder Spirits produces a Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey that is aged for at least two years in new American oak barrels. This bourbon has a rich, full-bodied flavor with notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice.
7. Golden Moon Distillery
photo credit: www.goldenmoondistillery.com
Golden Moon is a distillery located in Golden that produces a Colorado Bourbon Whiskey. This bourbon is made from a mash bill of corn, rye, and malted barley, and is aged for at least two years in new American oak barrels. It has a smooth, mellow flavor with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak.
8. Denver Distillery
photo credit: denverdistillery.com
Denver Distillery produces a Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey that is aged for at least two years in new American oak barrels. This bourbon has a rich, full-bodied flavor with notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice.
9. Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey
photo credit: stranahans.com
Stranahan’s is one of the most well-known bourbon brands in Colorado. Their Colorado Whiskey is made from a mash bill of barley, corn, and rye, and is aged for at least two years in new American oak barrels. It has a smooth, mellow flavor with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak.
10. Michael Myers
photo credit: www.bourbonbanter.com
Michael Myers is a small-batch bourbon brand that is gaining popularity in Colorado. Their Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey is aged for at least two years in new American oak barrels. It has a smooth, mellow flavor with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak.
Whether you prefer a smooth and mellow flavor or a rich and full-bodied one, there is a Colorado bourbon out there for you.
How to Enjoy Colorado Bourbon
If you’re looking for a way to enjoy Colorado bourbon, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Whether you prefer sipping it neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, here are some tips to help you get the most out of your experience.
Sipping Neat
When sipping Colorado bourbon neat, it’s important to take your time and savor the flavors. Start by pouring a small amount into a glass and giving it a swirl to release the aromas. Take a small sip and let it sit on your tongue for a few seconds before swallowing. Pay attention to the flavors and notes you detect, such as vanilla, caramel, or oak.
If you prefer your bourbon chilled, you can add a single ice cube to your glass. However, be careful not to dilute the flavors too much.
On the Rocks
If you prefer your bourbon on the rocks, you can add a few ice cubes to your glass. This will help chill the bourbon and mellow out the flavors. However, be aware that the melting ice can dilute the flavors over time.
Cocktails
Colorado bourbon can also be used in a variety of cocktails, such as an Old Fashioned or a Manhattan. When mixing your bourbon with other ingredients, be sure to use high-quality mixers and fresh ingredients.
Tasting Flight
If you want to try several different Colorado bourbons, consider ordering a tasting flight at a local distillery or bar. This will allow you to compare and contrast the flavors and notes of different bourbons side-by-side.
Overall, the best way to enjoy Colorado bourbon is to experiment and find what works best for you. Whether you prefer sipping it neat or mixing it in a cocktail, there are many ways to enjoy this delicious spirit.
Conclusion
You’ve now been introduced to the top 10 Colorado bourbon whiskey brands of 2023. Each brand has its unique flavor profile and production process, making it challenging to pick a favorite. Colorado’s bourbon whiskey scene is great, with many distilleries producing excellent and incredible bourbons. The state’s unique climate and water sources make it an ideal location for producing high-quality bourbon whiskey.
While all the brands on our list are very good, some stand out more than others. Breckenridge Bourbon Whiskey is a good option for those who prefer high-rye bourbon, while Stranahan’s Colorado Single Malt Whiskey is a magic choice for those who enjoy a unique flavor profile.
In conclusion, Colorado’s bourbon whiskey scene is friendly, with many excellent distilleries producing high-quality bourbons. Whether you’re a bourbon connoisseur or a casual drinker, there’s a brand on this list that will suit your taste buds. So, go ahead and try some of these top-rated bourbons and discover your new favorite.
