Looking for the perfect bourbon with a smooth and sweet vanilla taste? Look no further than this list of the top 10 best bourbons with vanilla notes. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon connoisseur or just starting out, these bourbons are sure to delight your taste buds.
Table of Contents
Understanding Bourbon
If you’re new to the world of bourbon, it can be overwhelming to navigate the different brands and styles available. Bourbon is a type of whiskey that is made primarily from corn and aged in charred oak barrels. To be considered bourbon, it must meet certain legal requirements, including being made in the United States, containing at least 51% corn, and being aged in new, charred oak barrels.
One of the defining characteristics of bourbon is its flavor profile. Bourbon typically has notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak, which come from the aging process in charred oak barrels. The longer the bourbon is aged, the more complex and nuanced the flavors become.
When it comes to choosing a bourbon with vanilla notes, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, look for bourbons that are aged for at least a few years, as this allows the vanilla flavors to develop. Second, consider the mash bill, or the combination of grains used in the bourbon. Bourbons with a higher percentage of corn tend to have sweeter, more vanilla-forward flavors.
Finally, it’s important to remember that taste is subjective. What one person considers the best bourbon with vanilla notes may not be the same for another person. It’s always a good idea to try a few different brands and styles to find the one that best suits your palate.
The Importance of Vanilla Notes
When it comes to bourbon, vanilla notes can make all the difference. These notes can add a layer of complexity to the bourbon’s flavor profile, making it more enjoyable and memorable. Here are a few reasons why vanilla notes are so important in bourbon:
1. Adds sweetness
One of the main reasons why vanilla notes are so important in bourbon is because they add a touch of sweetness to the drink. This sweetness can help balance out the bourbon’s natural bitterness, making it more palatable and enjoyable to drink.
2. Enhances flavor
Vanilla notes can also enhance the overall flavor of the bourbon. They can add depth and complexity to the drink, making it more interesting and enjoyable to sip.
3. Complements other flavors
Vanilla notes can also complement other flavors in the bourbon. For example, if a bourbon has notes of caramel or oak, the vanilla notes can help bring out those flavors even more, creating a well-rounded and delicious drink.
4. Makes it versatile
Bourbon with vanilla notes can also be more versatile when it comes to mixing cocktails. The sweetness and depth of flavor can make it a great base for a variety of drinks, from classic Old Fashioneds to modern twists on bourbon cocktails.
Top 10 Best Bourbons with Vanilla Notes
If you’re a fan of bourbon, you know that vanilla is one of the most common and beloved flavors in this spirit. Whether you’re sipping it neat or using it as a mixer, the right bourbon with vanilla notes can take your drink to the next level. Here are the top 10 best bourbons with vanilla notes that you need to try:
1. Woodford Reserve Double Oaked
photo credit: www.woodfordreserve.com
Woodford Reserve Double Oaked is a bourbon that’s aged in two different barrels, giving it a rich, complex flavor profile that’s full of vanilla notes. The first barrel is toasted, and the second barrel is charred, which gives the bourbon its unique taste.
2. Buffalo Trace Bourbon
photo credit: www.buffalotracedistillery.com
Buffalo Trace Bourbon is a classic bourbon that’s known for its smooth, easy-drinking flavor profile. It has a subtle vanilla note that adds a touch of sweetness to the overall taste.
3. Larceny Small Batch Bourbon
photo credit: larcenybourbon.com
Larceny Small Batch Bourbon is a smooth, easy-drinking bourbon that’s perfect for sipping neat or using in cocktails. It has a rich, buttery flavor with notes of vanilla and caramel.
4. Booker’s Bourbon Whiskey
photo credit: www.beamdistilling.com
Booker’s Bourbon Whiskey is a high-proof bourbon that’s aged for six to eight years, giving it a bold, complex flavor profile. It has a strong vanilla note that’s balanced out by hints of oak and spice.
5. 1792 Full Proof
photo credit: 1792bourbon.com
1792 Full Proof is a bourbon that’s aged for eight years and bottled at full proof, giving it a bold, intense flavor profile. It has a strong vanilla note that’s complemented by hints of caramel and oak.
6. Maker’s Mark 46
photo credit: www.makersmark.com
Maker’s Mark 46 is a bourbon that’s aged in barrels that are made with seared French oak staves, giving it a unique flavor profile that’s full of vanilla and caramel notes.
7. Hudson Bright Lights Big Bourbon
photo credit: www.hudsonwhiskey.com
Hudson Bright Lights Big Bourbon is a small-batch bourbon that’s aged for four years, giving it a smooth, easy-drinking flavor profile. It has a subtle vanilla note that adds a touch of sweetness to the overall taste.
8. Angel’s Envy Kentucky Straight Bourbon
photo credit: m.media-amazon.com
Angel’s Envy Kentucky Straight Bourbon is a bourbon that’s finished in port wine barrels, giving it a unique flavor profile that’s full of vanilla and fruit notes.
9. Noah’s Mill Small Batch Bourbon
photo credit: www.kentuckybourbonwhiskey.com
Noah’s Mill Small Batch Bourbon is a high-proof bourbon that’s aged for up to 20 years, giving it a rich, complex flavor profile. It has a strong vanilla note that’s complemented by hints of oak and spice.
10. Garrison Brothers Small Batch Texas Bourbon
photo credit: www.garrisonbros.com
Garrison Brothers Small Batch Texas Bourbon is a bourbon that’s made in Texas and aged for up to five years, giving it a unique flavor profile that’s full of vanilla and caramel notes.
Pairing Suggestions
Bourbon is a versatile drink that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with food. Here are some pairing suggestions to enhance your bourbon drinking experience:
- Barbecue: Bourbon and barbecue are a match made in heaven. The smoky flavors of the meat pair well with the sweet and spicy notes in the bourbon. Try pairing your favorite barbecue dishes with a smooth and rich bourbon, such as Maker’s Mark or Woodford Reserve.
- Cheese: Bourbon and cheese are a classic pairing. The creamy and salty flavors of cheese complement the sweet and oaky notes in bourbon. Try pairing your favorite cheese with a bold and spicy bourbon, such as Bulleit Bourbon or Four Roses Small Batch.
- Chocolate: Bourbon and chocolate are a decadent pairing. The rich and sweet flavors of chocolate complement the smooth and caramel notes in bourbon. Try pairing your favorite chocolate desserts with a rich and velvety bourbon, such as Angel’s Envy or Blanton’s Single Barrel.
- Vanilla ice cream: Bourbon and vanilla ice cream are a simple and delicious pairing. The creamy and sweet flavors of the ice cream complement the rich and smooth notes in bourbon. Try pairing your favorite vanilla ice cream with a smooth and mellow bourbon, such as Buffalo Trace or Evan Williams.
- Roasted vegetables: Bourbon and roasted vegetables are a surprising but delightful pairing. The earthy and sweet flavors of the vegetables complement the spicy and woody notes in bourbon. Try pairing your favorite roasted vegetables with a bold and complex bourbon, such as Knob Creek or Wild Turkey 101.
Conclusion
You’ve now seen some of the best bourbons with vanilla notes available in 2023. Each of the bourbons we’ve discussed has its own unique flavor profile, so it’s important to experiment and find the one that suits your taste preferences the best. No matter which bourbon you choose, make sure to savor it and enjoy the unique vanilla notes that each one has to offer. Cheers!
Related Posts
If you’re a bourbon lover, you might be interested in exploring other whiskey options. Here are some related posts that might pique your interest:
- 8 Best Jim Beam Bourbon Whiskey Alternatives You Need to Try: If you’re looking for alternatives to Jim Beam, this list has you covered with 8 great options.
- 10 Best Bottom Shelf Bourbons for the Budget-Friendly Bourbon Lover: If you’re on a budget, but still want to enjoy quality bourbon, this list has 10 great options for you.
- Ranking the 8 Best Macallan Whiskeys: A Friendly Guide: If you’re a fan of single malt scotch whiskey, this guide will help you navigate the world of Macallan.
- Get Your Whiskey Fix: 13 Best Rye Whiskeys Under $50: If you enjoy rye whiskey, this list has 13 great options for under $50.
- 10 Best Bourbons That Taste Like Basil Hayden: Our Top Picks: If you’re a fan of Basil Hayden and want to try similar bourbons, this list has you covered.
