Through an act of congress in 2007, September was named “National Bourbon Heritage Month.” And for that, we’re mighty thankful.
There’s no doubt that, as golfers, we love our booze. And while we’re not picky, nothing quite wraps up a day on the links like a few fingers of your favorite bourbon.
So, in celebration of National Bourbon Heritage Month and golfers everywhere, we present to you 9 Bourbons You Simply Must Try:
Elijah Craig Single Barrel
The presumably fine folks at Elijah Craig sure have a lot of patience. How else can you explain waiting 18 years to try this delicious batch? The good news for you is that the waiting is the hardest part and you can have this fine bourbon for around $75. Got a bit more cash to spend? Try the brand’s 20 and 21-year batches.
Colonel E.H. Taylor Jr. Barrel Proof
The reason to try this one is clear: its name. Who wouldn’t want to cheers to the Colonel? On a more serious and much tastier note, though, Colonel E.H. Taylor Jr. is a powerful, cask-strength bourbon that can match almost any palette. Typical pricing for the Barrel-Proof edition is $70.
Maker’s 46
Maker’s Mark is a nice bourbon for the non-bourbon drinker, or perhaps to get yourself into the drink. To kick it up a notch, try the Maker’s 46. Aged a bit longer than traditional Maker’s Mark, the 46 goes down smoother but doesn’t lose the brand’s traditional vanilla after taste — and is usually available for less than $35.
Pappy Van Winkle
Another bourbon we’d simply try for the name alone, Pappy Van Winkle comes from the Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery. This 23-year, 95.6-proof bourbon is best enjoyed neat.
Martin Mills
This is the big one, the “Big Foot of Bourbon” as it’s been called. There were only 200 bottles made and each sip will cost you $100. You can have the bottle for $500 but good luck finding one.
Woodford Reserve Double Oaked
What do you get when you combine Woodford’s traditional process of distilling — which includes a copper pot still and a longer-than-most aging process — with an extra nine months in a second oak barrel? A delicious Woodford Reserve Double Oaked, of course. Typically retailing under $60, the Double Oaked is a must-try.
John E. Fitzgerald Larceny Small Batch
The name isn’t the only reason we love this one. It’s inexpensive ($25), as tasty a small batch we can find and makes one hell of a mint julep.
Breckenridge
Many bourbons hail from the great state of Kentucky but we’d absolutely venture to Colorado to try this one. Winner of double gold at the International Wine & Spirits Competition, Breckenridge features notes of fruits, citrus, vanilla and marshmallow mixed with a pepper-like finish. Unique, indeed.
Blanton’s Single Barrel
Winner of gold at the International Wine & Spirit Competition, Blanton is a memorable bourbon. Yes, the bottle it arrives in is quite unique. Moreover, it’s the hints of butterscotch and a vanilla finish leave you thirsting for more.
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