Looking for the best liquor stores for bourbon? Look no further. We’ve compiled a list of the top 10 liquor stores across the United States that offer the best selection of bourbons for you to choose from. Whether you’re a bourbon connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of whiskey, these stores are sure to have something that will satisfy your taste buds.
From small, family-owned shops to large, well-known retailers, our list includes a variety of stores that offer a wide range of bourbons at different price points. Some of the stores on our list even offer rare and hard-to-find bourbons that you won’t find anywhere else. So, whether you’re looking for a bottle of Pappy Van Winkle or just a great-value bourbon, you’re sure to find it at one of these stores. So, grab a glass and get ready to explore the best liquor stores for bourbon in the country.
Table of Contents
Understanding Bourbon
If you’re a fan of whiskey, you’ve likely heard of bourbon. But what exactly is bourbon? Bourbon is a type of American whiskey that is made primarily from corn. To be considered bourbon, the mash bill (the mixture of grains used to make the whiskey) must contain at least 51% corn. The remaining grains can include malted barley, wheat, or rye.
Bourbon is also aged in charred oak barrels, which gives it a unique flavor profile. The charred oak imparts flavors of vanilla, caramel, and spice, while the aging process itself creates a complex flavor profile with notes of sweetness, nuttiness, and more.
When it comes to choosing a bourbon, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, pay attention to the mash bill. Different mash bills will result in different flavor profiles, so if you know you prefer a certain type of grain, look for bourbons that use that in their mash bill.
Next, consider the age of the bourbon. While older bourbon is often considered to be better, that’s not always the case. Younger bourbons can have more vibrant flavors and aromas, while older bourbons can be more full-bodied and complex.
Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands and distilleries. Each bourbon will have its own unique flavor profile, so trying different brands can help you discover new favorites.
Bourbon Options
In this section, we will cover some popular brands, unique and award-winning bourbons, and the difference between budget and expensive options.
Popular Brands
Some of the most popular bourbon brands include Four Roses, Woodford Reserve, Buffalo Trace, Jim Beam, and Maker’s Mark. These brands are known for their quality and consistency, and they are widely available in most liquor stores.
Unique and Award-Winning Bourbons
If you’re looking for something a little different, there are many unique and award-winning bourbons to choose from. George Dickel Superior Recipe No. 12 is a great option with its delicious vanilla and charred oak flavoring and smoky finish. Four Roses Single Barrel is another great choice, with its unique mash bills and smooth finish. Willett is another award-winning bourbon that is known for its rich flavors and smooth finish.
Budget vs. Expensive Bourbon
When it comes to bourbon, there are options for every budget. Jim Beam White Label and Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon are both great budget options that still offer great flavor. For those willing to spend a little more, Henry McKenna Single Barrel and Weller 12 are both great choices. Elmer T. Lee is another great option for those looking for a smooth and flavorful bourbon.
Best Online Liquor Stores for Bourbon
When it comes to buying bourbon online, there are many options available. Here are some of the best online liquor stores for bourbons in 2023:
Flaviar
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Flaviar is one of the best online liquor stores for bourbons, especially if you’re looking for rare and hard-to-find bottles. They offer a nice selection of bourbon whiskey and provide a membership program that gives you access to exclusive bottles, tasting boxes, and more.
Mash&Grape
photo credit: www.mashandgrape.com
Mash&Grape is another great online liquor store for bourbons. They have an excellent selection of bourbons from different regions and price ranges. They also offer a subscription service that delivers a curated selection of bourbons to your doorstep every month.
Drizly
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Drizly is a great online liquor store for bourbons if you need your bottle delivered quickly. They offer on-demand delivery in many cities across the US, so you can get your bottle within an hour in some cases. They also have a good selection of bourbons to choose from.
PourMore
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PourMore is a budget-friendly online liquor store for bourbons. They offer a nice selection of bourbons at affordable prices. They also have a subscription service that delivers a new bottle of bourbon to your doorstep every month.
Caskers
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Caskers is a premium online liquor store for bourbons. They offer a curated selection of bourbons from different regions and price ranges. They also have a membership program that gives you access to exclusive bottles, discounts, and more.
When buying bourbon online, it’s important to check the shipping policies and delivery times. Some online liquor stores may not deliver to your state, or they may have restrictions on shipping certain types of alcohol. It’s also important to read reviews and check the prices to make sure you’re getting a good deal.
Best Physical Liquor Stores for Bourbon
When it comes to finding the best physical liquor stores for bourbon, there are a few places that stand out. Here are some of the top options for finding your favorite bourbon:
Total Wine
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Total Wine is a great option for those looking for a wide selection of bourbons. With over 200 locations across the United States, Total Wine offers a vast array of bourbons from popular brands to small-batch and limited-release options. They also have knowledgeable staff who can help you find the perfect bourbon to fit your taste and budget.
State Line Liquors
photo credit: www.statelineliquors.com
State Line Liquors is another excellent option for bourbon lovers. Located in Elkton, Maryland, they have a vast selection of bourbons, including rare and hard-to-find bottles. They also have a knowledgeable staff that can help you find the perfect bourbon, and they often host tastings and events for bourbon enthusiasts.
Warehouse Liquors
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Warehouse Liquors in Chicago, Illinois, is a small but well-curated liquor store that specializes in bourbon. They have a knowledgeable staff who can help you find the perfect bottle, and they often have rare and hard-to-find bourbons in stock. They also offer tastings and events for bourbon lovers.
Kirby Wines & Liquors
photo credit: www.memphisbestguide.com
Kirby Wines & Liquors in Memphis, Tennessee, is another great option for bourbon lovers. They have a wide selection of bourbons, including many rare and hard-to-find bottles. They also have a knowledgeable staff who can help you find the perfect bourbon to fit your taste and budget.
Busters
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Busters in Lexington, Kentucky, is a small but well-curated liquor store that specializes in bourbon. They have a wide selection of bourbons, including many rare and hard-to-find bottles. They also have a knowledgeable staff who can help you find the perfect bourbon to fit your taste and budget.
How to Choose a Bourbon
If you’re new to the world of bourbon, choosing the right bottle can be difficult. With so many varieties and ages available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to buy. In this section, we’ll cover some tips for choosing a bourbon that suits your taste and budget.
Reading Tasting Notes
Tasting notes are a great way to get an idea of what a particular bourbon tastes like before you buy it. They typically describe the flavor profile, aroma, and finish of the drink. When reading tasting notes, keep in mind that everyone’s palate is different, so what one person tastes may not be the same as what you taste.
Look for tasting notes that describe flavors you enjoy. For example, if you like spicy food, you may enjoy bourbon with notes of cinnamon or black pepper. If you prefer a smoother drink, look for notes of vanilla or caramel.
Understanding Age Statements
Bourbon is aged in barrels for a minimum of two years, but many are aged for much longer. Age statements on a bottle of bourbon indicate the youngest whiskey in the bottle. For example, a bourbon with an age statement of “10 years” contains whiskey that has been aged for at least 10 years.
Keep in mind that older doesn’t always mean better. While some connoisseurs prefer older bourbons, others prefer younger ones with a spicier flavor profile. Additionally, older bourbons are often more expensive.
When choosing a bourbon-based on age, consider your budget and taste preferences. If you’re new to bourbon, it may be best to start with a younger, less expensive bottle and work your way up to more expensive, aged varieties.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have now discovered the top 10 liquor stores for bourbon in 2023. Whether you are a bourbon enthusiast or just looking for a good bottle to enjoy with friends, these stores offer a wide variety of options to suit your needs.
From Warehouse Liquors in Chicago to the Bourbon Store on Earth, these stores have been carefully selected for their impressive collections of bourbon spirits and whiskeys. You can find everything from top-shelf, rare bottles to more affordable options that still pack a punch.
So go ahead, grab a bottle of your favorite bourbon from one of these top 10 liquor stores and enjoy the rich flavors and aromas that make this classic American spirit so beloved. Cheers!
