Never have liked bourbon (almost 66). In quarantine, i started trying different alcohols. I found that I like gin and tonics. Who knew. I decided to try Knob Creek small batch. I’d seen a RUclips video. I liked it. Very surprised. So I got adventurous and tried Buffalo Trace and liked it too. I tried Bullet bourbon, Makers Mark, Evan a Williams, Wilford Reserve and lastly Elijah Craig. Elijah Craig is my favorite, by far. I’ve now become a bourbon drinker and that led me to finding your channel. Keep up the videos, I watch them all.
Thank you so much brother! And that's awesome, it's never too late to start enjoying the brown spirits! All great starter bourbons you chose! Keep up the adventure!
I started out with gin and tonic. I recommend either Tanquray or Beefeater, a lime or lemon flavored tonic water and of course lots of ice. As for bourbon l started out with Four Roses yellow label and moved up to Evan Williams both again with lots of ice and I mixed them with zero Pepsi so it not too sugary sweet.
My wife has not been a bourbon fan, though she is starting to sway a bit. I found Irish whisky to be a gateway to bourbon. Green Spot and Redbreast turned the corner in whisky, and now she is starting to enjoy finished bourbon (Joseph Magnus). I doubt she’ll ever completely convert from wine and cocktails, but in the end drink what you like and the way you like to drink it.
Solid recommendations all, but my number one choice for beginner bourbon drinkers is...right over your shoulder in this video. Larceny. The proof is (intentional pun) when my sister in law, who had never tasted bourbon showed curiosity, I suggested Larceny. The pour was one shot neat. The look on her face was first surprise, then a smile and her comment was, "hmm this is good!" Next thing you know she buys a 1.75L bottle. Now my brother who was a gin man is on board too. You recommended some wheat mash bill bourbons and that sweetness is the gateway. While I normally drink something a little spicy around 100 proof, last night I poured Larceny over one large cube of ice: refreshing beverage on a warm night I'd say.
Great recommendation! For me personally I prefer weller SR to larceny so that's why I put it in there! Most definetly agree, wheated mash Bill's are for sure a smooth transition!
Great group of bourbons to recommend for those just starting out. This afternoon one of my good friends posted on FB he got a bottle of Old Forester 1920 to see what all the hub bub is about. Don't think he'll be disappointed.
When I first started drinking bourbon, I really liked Evan Williams 1783. It's a little on the sweet side, with some nice caramel and vanilla flavors. Eventually it started to be a little one-dimensional for me and I moved on to bolder flavors, but 1783 was a nice starter for me.
Great list for non-Bourbon drinkers. I think the best introduction to whiskies in general is Irish whiskey, specifically Jameson/Midleton products. Once someone likes those sweet butter cookie notes, they're ready to move up to the vanilla and oak in Bourbon without getting their palate blasted.
I really recommend the Woodford Reserve Straight Malt Whiskey. $38. I did a blind flight with the other Woodford stds, including Double Oak and the rye, and really loved this one. Not too hot, nice sweet palate with a great mouth feel.
Right on point with the Woodford Reserve Double Oak, and Eagle Rare. Also, add in Buffalo Trace. My personal favorite for easy sipping is Wild Turkey Longbranch, which is totally delicious.
I'm new to your channel and I'm enjoying the information you are providing. As a new bourbon drinker I find your great reviews especially helpful. Have you done a review of Longbranch?
@@shawn84567 thanks so much for checking out the channel! I haven't done a review of Long Branch but I have tried it. In my opinion it's overrated but still a decent bourbon. It's got a bit of a Mesquite to it so if you enjoy that flavor you'll probably like it.
@@Bourbinsane thanks for your reply. Looking forward to more reviews. One last thing. Not sure how this works, but can your subscribers send you something to review?
Should got her hooked on something cheaper lol. I made the same mistake. My wife kills my blantons all the time. Luckily I got her hooked on buffalo Trace too. Easier on the wallet.
My domestic whiskey intro was Maker's Mark. My intro to serious bourbon started with Woodford's Reserve. It went deep and expensive over the years but I have circled back and settled on OF 100 and WT 101 as "daily drinkers".
Good pick! Russells Reserve Single Barrel for me. I'm not a fan of heavy oak. Russells Reserver Single Barrel is rich and easy to drink at 110 proof, and I'm not a huge Wild Turkey fan.
A couple of others that I have used are High West American Prairie Bourbon, Knob Creek Single Barrel even at 60%(doesn't drink that high), and Balcones Baby Blue. I'd like to see you do this with Rye.
Agree on the corn whiskey very sweet profile, and balcones is like a grilled sweet corn. I have tried regular KC100 not the single barrel tho. I'll go for it sometime!
Some whiskies (not necessarily bourbons) that I think translate well to new drinkers are: - Jack Daniels - the charcoal mellowing removes some of the challenging flavors and the lower proof makes it approachable. - Basil Haden's - I personally find it weak (almost watered down) so that might bode well for a whiskey noob. - Canadian blended whiskies - Most whiskey enthusiasts find them too sweet, but might just be what non-whiskey drinkers need to get started. Personally, I think a better method is to have the whiskey and coke drinkers move to Whiskey and ginger/sprite/etc, then to whiskey sours, then to old fashions, then to on the rocks, then to neat. You can tailor the cocktail ratios as well as the base whiskey proof in each cocktail to have them gradually move on.
WT 101 and Woodford Double Oak will always be in my stock, along with Makers 46. When I gift a non-bourbon drinker a bottle, it's almost always Makers 46 and I can get it at my local Costco for $26.
In my experience people who don’t like whiskey, tend to often enjoy Cognac/brandy. So my recommendation would be to try a bourbon (whiskey) that most resembles the taste profile of a quality brandy.
Great content. Came across your channel a week ago and been enjoying your videos. Definitely earned a new subscriber! Back to your list, I'm surprised you didn't include Maker's. Very nice sweet flavor, readily available and the price point is good. Keep up the great work!
Thx so much for watching! For most people makers is a good option, for me and my palate I csnt stand nearly every makers I have ever had. Including private selects
Cool man! Great video! I’ve been trying to get my wife converted too. It depends on the crowd I find. Price factors in for me. I would give everyone Blanton’s if I could afford it! I think WT101 would be my go to because it has such a good, balanced classic profile and I find it dangerously smooth. Non-whisky drinkers appreciate that aspect I find. Smoothness is not that important to me, but the non-initiated it seems to be.
Good list there! I have one that my non bourbon friends usually LOVE but it's the Angels Envy Rye, which is hard to find and $100/bottle, so not good for this review, but I'll give it an honorable Mention.
I know, I immediately jump up to the 100 and 101. Cant help myself. I do love both the power proof offerings too, I normally just dont buy them for myself
I have recently acquired some Widow Jane Decadence. My wife loved this one so much that I was told to get a back-up bottle. She doesn't normally mind some WT101 or OE7 in a glen but this widow jane has become her absolute favorite. Biggest problem with Decadence is the price, at $75/bottle at Costco in AZ.
Chris, good choices. Larceny and Henry McKenna 10 Year BIB might be on that list for me. Did I see that the Eagle Rare bottle you displayed is a Rishi's Store Pick? It didn't look like you had cracked that open yet. I picked up 5 or 6 bottles of that store pick when it was available. It is remarkably good. Have you tried it?
I just started to get back into drinking again, I’m 30 and for whatever reason just stopped drinking over the last few years. I want to find something to just sip on after a long day and want to give bourbon a shot. I just got a bottle of WFDO and I don’t know if I got a bad botttle or I am just out of luck with bourbon already but it tastes like a burnt molasses and astringent mix. I wasn’t expecting it to be peaches and cream but from everything I’ve seen I was really hoping for something sweet and smooth. It was really strong and actually got more harsh through the glass. I’m going to give it some more try’s and see if I can adjust my palate, even though it was $60 I’m honestly hoping it was just a off bottle. I can taste the dark sugar but it has a serious astringent/alcohol oak to it that is really off putting. Hopefully it gets better 🙌🏾
You never know it is possible to get enough bottle every once in a while. There are so many whiskies out there to explore though you will find 1 you like!
@ThenX I haven’t been trying much, I did get a 375ml EC small batch to just sip on to get used to drinking straight again. I switched to a rocks glass from a glyncairn and it made a difference. It sounds dumb but the glyn glass actually makes the drink stronger. The EC in a rocks glass isn’t bad, still not a huge fan but it’s considerably smoother and easier than the Double oak in a glyn. Some ginger ale and EC isn’t bad. It sounds weird but I took a number of years away from drinking much but want to just find some good stuff to sip on. It’s liquor so it’s going to take some getting used to. Rum isn’t a bad choice if whiskey is to woody, good rums can have some extra fruit and sugar elements
I know this about bourbon, but the stuff I’ve had non-whiskey people try is Irish. There are some decent low proof pours and bourbon is just a half step away. You have to get people to tolerate the burn before you can get them to think about taste imo. Of course you could always start with watering it down or a cocktail like a old fashioned.
Good video. I'm having some Old Forester 100, That $h!t is Bananas, BANANAS. Michter's US1 bourbon and or Michter's US1 American whiskey needs to be on that list. Keep up the great content.
Regarding your choices: 5) Angel's Envy - not a fan, and a female friend who manages the bourbon section at a Total Wine isn't either. Add in the price, and it wouldn't be near my top 5 to recommend to a newbie. 4) Weller Special Reserve - totally agree 👍 3) Old Forester Single Barrel (or 100 proof) - can't comment on SiB, but personally (and surprisingly) I kind of like 86 over 100. I generally don't like low proof bourbon, but I like the 86 over 100....and for someone you're trying to convert, it's definitely an easier choice for a rookie. 2) Eagle Rare - I have two friends who are NOT huge bourbon drinkers...one loves it, one doesn't even really like it. Given its allocated status, it's one I'm on the fence about using as an "introduction"...but it's not a bad option. At all. 1) Woodford Reserve Double Oaked - agree 👍Great tasting bourbon, IMHO, and easy to drink. As far as Wild Turkey 101 being "Honorable Mention", it definitely would be in my top 5. Taste, price point, and availability....plus, plus, and plus. Mine would be: Wild Turkey 101 Buffalo Trace Elijah Craig Small Batch Jim Beam Black Old Forester 86 5 choices with 5 of the major distilleries being represented, all are budget options, and all are easy sippers....especially for someone "new" to bourbon. Good video, Chris...interesting topic, and I enjoyed watching 👍
Since I'm a scotch-guy, I have no recommendations to add. BUT. I'm similiar unsuccessful in getting my wife into spirits and I was on the verge of giving up, when I had a surprise hit with Monkey 47 Schwarzwald dry Gin. She loved it and it's 47% abv! Since then I've really noticed, that friends who frown at even my most friendly scotches, often warm up to richly flavoured Gin. Maybe this will work as a detour to whisky in the long run. We will see. :)
101 the pick of the litter, but the one nobody seems to tout. Value/price ratio, the best bottle out there bar none. And all Turkey products are good quality for money. Great all American brand bourbon. Should have the Turkey wrapped in the American flag.
@sneksnekitsasnek depends on the whiskey and the individual. Knob Creek SB is 100 proof but still pretty friendly. WT 101 is a little more agressive. But, that works for some people.
Awesome list Chris!!! I wanna try the Angel's Envy but my Liqour store here never goes below $75 do you think that still a good price to try. Everything else tends to fly off the shelves before I get to it😂😂😂😂😂
I think your top choice is spot-on. It would be my daily drinker but alas Woodford`s Double Oaked is too expensive here in the UK. I happened upon a bottle of Buffalo Trace at less than half the price & although great for the price point it lacked a little in flavour compared to the Double Oaked. I improvised a little & boosted the profile with a couple of shots of Stag JR in the not-quite-full BT & came up trumps. Continuing my search for a cheapish daily I`ve just ordered a Knob Creek at 100 proof.....it just might be the one! Btw I`m paying £52.00 or $65.00 for DO.....what do you pay in Michigan?
My wife was the same way until I gave her some good ‘ol Makers Mark. I paired it with some Chocolove Milk Chocolate pieces 😀. She’s a fan of that and Bulliet too now. I find she’s not much of a fan of the higher proof bourbon as of yet. So Makers is mostly hers.
I'm a solid craft beer drinker but looking to get into bourbons. Only whiskey/bourbon I've ever had is Jack Daniels and I hate it. I prefer fruity/sweet over salty/peppery. I was thinking of just getting regular Buffalo Trace but the Weller and Woodford seem like a decent try as well....can I get a lil advice on which way to go?
I never tried whiskey straight it taste kinda strong for me, i will give it a try again and i need you please to give me just a name of one recommendation 🙏
Great list here! My wife and I can easily say that Buffalo Trace has been our favorite distillery so far. Right now, I’d say my favorite easy sipper would be the Weller 12. I always find myself reaching for it, but I only refrain because I never know when I’ll be able to find it again. (At least for retail... a couple liquor stores have it marked up for $200) Looking forward to the barrel proof list! 🥃
While I appreciate anyone going to these lengths in support of Bourbon I have to add a few notes. Whiskey ans Whisky are not Bourbon and visa versa...yeah I am being a tad snarky, but all in good fun. Have fun finding Weller Special Reserve as it is difficult at best to find, and nowhere for $25. Weller SR is going for around $79 to $100 per bottle in most places. The Woodford Double O is a silky smooth pour but a tad sweet for some. My advice is, first things first. Most people do not start out loving the taste of Bourbon because they do not drink it correctly. Understanding the tip of the tongue is where one taste sweet and the back is where one taste bitter. Start by sipping and feeling the bourbon with the front of the tongue before swallow, then breath out through the nose. People like different things about bourbon, for me, I like the softer sweetness up front found in "wheated" bourbons such as Weller, Maker's Mark where others like the intense burn and a higher rye content. I found Knob Creek smooth up front with a finish which reminds me of a ash tray. To each his or her own but do not be afraid to drop a ice cube in a glass regardless what the Bourbon fanatics say...even the distillery will tell you a bit of ice or water added open up the flavor. Cheers.
@@Bourbinsane Ah. Good to know and thanks for the reply. 1910 is actually probably my favorite flavor at that proof. Man, is it delicious. It's like cordial cherries or something.
Elijah Craig Small Batch is a very easy drinker that I might spring on a non-whiskey person. I was at a party with a bunch of Jack Daniels drinkers and the like. I had a few bottles handy. They hated the rye, shied away from Wild Turkey, but everyone that tried it loved Four Roses Small Batch. One couple wrote it down to get some later. Cheers!
Of all the bottles I've tried thus far the Woodford Double Oak was the one bottle I decidedly did not like. Tasted horrible to me. I couldn't discern any distinct notes and barely finished the bottle; just a bad taste in my mouth. Having said that, I bought the small 375 ml. bottle and did make it to the finish line. Will not however repurchase. I also bought a small bottle of Woodford Reserve straight Kentuck whiskey. Good juice, easy sippin' if somewhat light on the palate, but not a bad bottle all together. Would recommend to the novice bourbon drinker.
@@Bourbinsane Could very well be? I went into the bottle with expectations of a desert bourbon with perhaps chocolate notes, maybe a little peanut brittle etc., but all I got was bitterness. To this palate, not good at all. My next stop will be Brown Forman's Old Forester 1920. Been touted as a desert bourbon and I can't wait to try it. A rare occasion where I would be willing to spring $60 for a bottle. As I write this, I'am sippin on' some of the George Dickel Tenn. sour mash whisky # 12 mash bill. 12 not to be confused with an age statement. 90 proof and good mouth feel. Priced in the $20's. Approachable and affordable as an everyday laid back sipper. N.B. Not a bourbon, but damn good sippin' whisky. Tha ky is for Kentucky!
Trying to get your wife into whisky she might not be a bourbon drinker. She might like scotch or Irish. If i was going to recommend a drink from scotch because its what i have the most experience with. Dalmore 15years old single malt.
Never have liked bourbon (almost 66). In quarantine, i started trying different alcohols. I found that I like gin and tonics. Who knew. I decided to try Knob Creek small batch. I’d seen a RUclips video. I liked it. Very surprised. So I got adventurous and tried Buffalo Trace and liked it too. I tried Bullet bourbon, Makers Mark, Evan a Williams, Wilford Reserve and lastly Elijah Craig. Elijah Craig is my favorite, by far. I’ve now become a bourbon drinker and that led me to finding your channel. Keep up the videos, I watch them all.
Thank you so much brother! And that's awesome, it's never too late to start enjoying the brown spirits! All great starter bourbons you chose! Keep up the adventure!
I started out with gin and tonic. I recommend either Tanquray or Beefeater, a lime or lemon flavored tonic water and of course lots of ice. As for bourbon l started out with Four Roses yellow label and moved up to Evan Williams both again with lots of ice and I mixed them with zero Pepsi so it not too sugary sweet.
Great choice’s! I offer Old Forester 1910, Eagle Rare, Redbreast 12, Russell’s 10, Redwood Empire Lost Monarch
My wife has not been a bourbon fan, though she is starting to sway a bit. I found Irish whisky to be a gateway to bourbon. Green Spot and Redbreast turned the corner in whisky, and now she is starting to enjoy finished bourbon (Joseph Magnus). I doubt she’ll ever completely convert from wine and cocktails, but in the end drink what you like and the way you like to drink it.
Absolutely! Irish is a great recommendation! Nice easy sipping and super sweet!
My go to is Old Forester 1910. I can find it mostly everywhere I shop. It taste great. Highly recommended!
Great choice and very dessert at 93 proof!
The Old Forester 1920 is amazing, too. Both are fantastic bottles.
My go too is Woodford Reserve, more recently purchased Buffalo Trace and boy is it a smooth drop
Solid recommendations all, but my number one choice for beginner bourbon drinkers is...right over your shoulder in this video. Larceny. The proof is (intentional pun) when my sister in law, who had never tasted bourbon showed curiosity, I suggested Larceny. The pour was one shot neat. The look on her face was first surprise, then a smile and her comment was, "hmm this is good!" Next thing you know she buys a 1.75L bottle. Now my brother who was a gin man is on board too. You recommended some wheat mash bill bourbons and that sweetness is the gateway. While I normally drink something a little spicy around 100 proof, last night I poured Larceny over one large cube of ice: refreshing beverage on a warm night I'd say.
Great recommendation! For me personally I prefer weller SR to larceny so that's why I put it in there! Most definetly agree, wheated mash Bill's are for sure a smooth transition!
Great group of bourbons to recommend for those just starting out. This afternoon one of my good friends posted on FB he got a bottle of Old Forester 1920 to see what all the hub bub is about. Don't think he'll be disappointed.
He mkst defiently wont be!
I was, but im a noob, i liked four roaes small batch.
1792 is a really good one for casual bourbon drinkers
I agree. I feel that way about most barton products
When I first started drinking bourbon, I really liked Evan Williams 1783. It's a little on the sweet side, with some nice caramel and vanilla flavors. Eventually it started to be a little one-dimensional for me and I moved on to bolder flavors, but 1783 was a nice starter for me.
Great recommendation! Also one of my first purchases!
Jeff Carpenter so smooth too
Very smooth and drinkable.
I like the Old Forester 86 myself. I also think the Eagle Rare and Buffalo Trace are good choices, in that order. Great video!
Thx ap much for watching!! Cheers!
I keep that OF 86 in my regular rotation. Its a great everyday pour.
Great list for non-Bourbon drinkers. I think the best introduction to whiskies in general is Irish whiskey, specifically Jameson/Midleton products. Once someone likes those sweet butter cookie notes, they're ready to move up to the vanilla and oak in Bourbon without getting their palate blasted.
Couldnt agree more, and you are not the first to bring up Irish as a great transition
@@Bourbinsane I just went from drinking mostly Patrons to bourbons one day. No clue how lol. Great video and list!
@@1LifeAdvs welcome to the whiskey world! Its a fun place!!
My 5: Buffalo Trace, Four Roses Small Batch, Wild Turkey 101 (bourbon and rye), Weller Special Reserve.
All great choices. So many great starters out there!
Definitely a great group. I totally agree on the double oaked. I've got a few of my friends drinking bourbon after giving it to them to try
Me too! Great converter with that flavor profile!
Just getting into Bourbon and started with WR Double Oaked. Just need some comparisons now - looking forward to trying stuff on this list. Cheers.
Awesome Choice! Keep me updated to some other stuff you enjoy
Totally agree on the double oaked.
Great easy sipping juice!
Great video Chris. I loved the list and your commentary. Cheers!
Thx Brian!
I really recommend the Woodford Reserve Straight Malt Whiskey. $38. I did a blind flight with the other Woodford stds, including Double Oak and the rye, and really loved this one. Not too hot, nice sweet palate with a great mouth feel.
Interesting! Still am yet to try that one!
@@Bourbinsane Chris, you must try a bottle, relatively cheap and always on the shelf. If it had more proof, it would really knock your socks off
Right on point with the Woodford Reserve Double Oak, and Eagle Rare. Also, add in Buffalo Trace. My personal favorite for easy sipping is Wild Turkey Longbranch, which is totally delicious.
That's a good one too. Makes me want to fire up the barbecue!
I'm new to your channel and I'm enjoying the information you are providing. As a new bourbon drinker I find your great reviews especially helpful. Have you done a review of Longbranch?
@@shawn84567 thanks so much for checking out the channel! I haven't done a review of Long Branch but I have tried it. In my opinion it's overrated but still a decent bourbon. It's got a bit of a Mesquite to it so if you enjoy that flavor you'll probably like it.
@@Bourbinsane thanks for your reply. Looking forward to more reviews. One last thing. Not sure how this works, but can your subscribers send you something to review?
Very nice review thank you
Thanks for watching!
I got my non-whiskey drinking wife, hooked on Blanton's and Eagle Rare.
Buffalo trace seems to be the easiest distillery to get people hooked on!
@@Bourbinsane She also loved the Old Forester single barrel.
Dan E haha same
Should got her hooked on something cheaper lol. I made the same mistake. My wife kills my blantons all the time. Luckily I got her hooked on buffalo Trace too. Easier on the wallet.
Haha...I did the same...eagle rare, Blanton's and Evan Williams
My domestic whiskey intro was Maker's Mark. My intro to serious bourbon started with Woodford's Reserve. It went deep and expensive over the years but I have circled back and settled on OF 100 and WT 101 as "daily drinkers".
Bottle my daily drinkers as well along with some good old BT store picks
I would add Russels Reserve 10. One the first pours my wife actually liked.
Ohh good one too!
Good pick! Russells Reserve Single Barrel for me. I'm not a fan of heavy oak. Russells Reserver Single Barrel is rich and easy to drink at 110 proof, and I'm not a huge Wild Turkey fan.
A couple of others that I have used are High West American Prairie Bourbon, Knob Creek Single Barrel even at 60%(doesn't drink that high), and Balcones Baby Blue.
I'd like to see you do this with Rye.
Agree on the corn whiskey very sweet profile, and balcones is like a grilled sweet corn. I have tried regular KC100 not the single barrel tho. I'll go for it sometime!
Solid list man, agree with all the bottles. Might switch the order a bit but they are all excellent for newbs
Idk what it is that double oaked has worked best for me
Some whiskies (not necessarily bourbons) that I think translate well to new drinkers are:
- Jack Daniels - the charcoal mellowing removes some of the challenging flavors and the lower proof makes it approachable.
- Basil Haden's - I personally find it weak (almost watered down) so that might bode well for a whiskey noob.
- Canadian blended whiskies - Most whiskey enthusiasts find them too sweet, but might just be what non-whiskey drinkers need to get started.
Personally, I think a better method is to have the whiskey and coke drinkers move to Whiskey and ginger/sprite/etc, then to whiskey sours, then to old fashions, then to on the rocks, then to neat. You can tailor the cocktail ratios as well as the base whiskey proof in each cocktail to have them gradually move on.
Love that idea of the transition! For sure canadian, Irish and lower proof like a basil will for sure be a good transition for most!
Love 1792 single batch
WT 101 and Woodford Double Oak will always be in my stock, along with Makers 46. When I gift a non-bourbon drinker a bottle, it's almost always Makers 46 and I can get it at my local Costco for $26.
Wow that's a great deal! For most people great option too, I am just not a huge makers guy! Cheers!
@@Bourbinsane If you ever see Makers 46 Cask Strength grab it. Betting you will like that!
I would say 1792 Small Batch.. The price is right and it’s an easy drinker.
Defiently an easy sipper! Cheers@
Great video. Thanks
Thx for watching!
In my experience people who don’t like whiskey, tend to often enjoy Cognac/brandy. So my recommendation would be to try a bourbon (whiskey) that most resembles the taste profile of a quality brandy.
That's fair!
@@Bourbinsane: Loved your selection, btw. I would have picked exactly the same ones that you recommended. 👍🏻
@@NothingMaster thx so much! So many good bourbon out there!
Great content. Came across your channel a week ago and been enjoying your videos. Definitely earned a new subscriber! Back to your list, I'm surprised you didn't include Maker's. Very nice sweet flavor, readily available and the price point is good. Keep up the great work!
Thx so much for watching! For most people makers is a good option, for me and my palate I csnt stand nearly every makers I have ever had. Including private selects
Cool man! Great video! I’ve been trying to get my wife converted too. It depends on the crowd I find. Price factors in for me. I would give everyone Blanton’s if I could afford it! I think WT101 would be my go to because it has such a good, balanced classic profile and I find it dangerously smooth. Non-whisky drinkers appreciate that aspect I find. Smoothness is not that important to me, but the non-initiated it seems to be.
Agreed! 101 drinks much smoother and still has great flavor profile
Good list there! I have one that my non bourbon friends usually LOVE but it's the Angels Envy Rye, which is hard to find and $100/bottle, so not good for this review, but I'll give it an honorable Mention.
That stuff is so sugary sweet!
Nice list...surprised you didnt put Old forrester 86 or wild turkey 86 to break a newbie in..lol
I know, I immediately jump up to the 100 and 101. Cant help myself. I do love both the power proof offerings too, I normally just dont buy them for myself
I have recently acquired some Widow Jane Decadence. My wife loved this one so much that I was told to get a back-up bottle. She doesn't normally mind some WT101 or OE7 in a glen but this widow jane has become her absolute favorite. Biggest problem with Decadence is the price, at $75/bottle at Costco in AZ.
Never been able to trythat one, I have only had the 90 proof one. MGP is so friendly tho
@@Bourbinsane for a 90 proof whiskey, it's got a pretty long finish.
Chris, good choices. Larceny and Henry McKenna 10 Year BIB might be on that list for me. Did I see that the Eagle Rare bottle you displayed is a Rishi's Store Pick? It didn't look like you had cracked that open yet. I picked up 5 or 6 bottles of that store pick when it was available. It is remarkably good. Have you tried it?
Yup! That is my sealed one, I am about 1/2 way thru my open bottle! Good juice! Cheers from Michigan!
Buffalo Trace always seems to be a winner.
It's hard not to like the expressions from their distillery. Has such a sweetness that is so easy to so many bourbon drinkers
Eagle Rare for the #1, and then either Evan Williams B.i.B, Wild Turkey 101, or Early Times B.i.B when they want the proof. 🥃 Cheers!
Love that early times! All great choices Duncan!
I just started to get back into drinking again, I’m 30 and for whatever reason just stopped drinking over the last few years. I want to find something to just sip on after a long day and want to give bourbon a shot. I just got a bottle of WFDO and I don’t know if I got a bad botttle or I am just out of luck with bourbon already but it tastes like a burnt molasses and astringent mix. I wasn’t expecting it to be peaches and cream but from everything I’ve seen I was really hoping for something sweet and smooth. It was really strong and actually got more harsh through the glass. I’m going to give it some more try’s and see if I can adjust my palate, even though it was $60 I’m honestly hoping it was just a off bottle. I can taste the dark sugar but it has a serious astringent/alcohol oak to it that is really off putting. Hopefully it gets better 🙌🏾
You never know it is possible to get enough bottle every once in a while. There are so many whiskies out there to explore though you will find 1 you like!
@ThenX I haven’t been trying much, I did get a 375ml EC small batch to just sip on to get used to drinking straight again. I switched to a rocks glass from a glyncairn and it made a difference. It sounds dumb but the glyn glass actually makes the drink stronger. The EC in a rocks glass isn’t bad, still not a huge fan but it’s considerably smoother and easier than the Double oak in a glyn. Some ginger ale and EC isn’t bad. It sounds weird but I took a number of years away from drinking much but want to just find some good stuff to sip on. It’s liquor so it’s going to take some getting used to. Rum isn’t a bad choice if whiskey is to woody, good rums can have some extra fruit and sugar elements
Stellar video buddy!! Great options. Don't disagree with any of these.
Thx Jason. Not everyone may agree with some but these have had best luck for me
I know this about bourbon, but the stuff I’ve had non-whiskey people try is Irish. There are some decent low proof pours and bourbon is just a half step away. You have to get people to tolerate the burn before you can get them to think about taste imo. Of course you could always start with watering it down or a cocktail like a old fashioned.
Absolutely agree! I think irish is an excellent transition into bourbon for sure!
I introduce them to Evan Williams Single Barrel; easily approachable quality.
Couldn't agree more
Good video. I could suggest 5 more at least, but you know that. One thought - evan williams bib.
It for sure could have been a top.10 list instead
Great list! I find it surprising what my non-whisky friends enjoy. Not surprising, most appreciate the low proof versions. Cheers!
Absolutely! Fun to experiment!
Cooper Craft is the best bang for buck bourbon I have tasted recently. Not as well known and still available at reasonable price.
That's a solid tip... if we want to drive up the price of Cooper Craft. Shhhhhhh.
Adding the Coopers Craft Barrel Reserve...square shoulder bottle is.the one I am referring.
Good video. I'm having some Old Forester 100, That $h!t is Bananas, BANANAS. Michter's US1 bourbon and or Michter's US1 American whiskey needs to be on that list. Keep up the great content.
Michters americna is pure butterscotch! That is definetly a good starter to me!! Thx for watching!
Regarding your choices:
5) Angel's Envy - not a fan, and a female friend who manages the bourbon section at a Total Wine isn't either. Add in the price, and it wouldn't be near my top 5 to recommend to a newbie.
4) Weller Special Reserve - totally agree 👍
3) Old Forester Single Barrel (or 100 proof) - can't comment on SiB, but personally (and surprisingly) I kind of like 86 over 100. I generally don't like low proof bourbon, but I like the 86 over 100....and for someone you're trying to convert, it's definitely an easier choice for a rookie.
2) Eagle Rare - I have two friends who are NOT huge bourbon drinkers...one loves it, one doesn't even really like it. Given its allocated status, it's one I'm on the fence about using as an "introduction"...but it's not a bad option. At all.
1) Woodford Reserve Double Oaked - agree 👍Great tasting bourbon, IMHO, and easy to drink.
As far as Wild Turkey 101 being "Honorable Mention", it definitely would be in my top 5. Taste, price point, and availability....plus, plus, and plus.
Mine would be:
Wild Turkey 101
Buffalo Trace
Elijah Craig Small Batch
Jim Beam Black
Old Forester 86
5 choices with 5 of the major distilleries being represented, all are budget options, and all are easy sippers....especially for someone "new" to bourbon.
Good video, Chris...interesting topic, and I enjoyed watching 👍
Thank you so much! Could agree more with tour top 5 too! AE I have had alot of people enjoys even though I really dont
Excellent number one choice.
Thanks so much!
Since I'm a scotch-guy, I have no recommendations to add. BUT. I'm similiar unsuccessful in getting my wife into spirits and I was on the verge of giving up, when I had a surprise hit with Monkey 47 Schwarzwald dry Gin. She loved it and it's 47% abv!
Since then I've really noticed, that friends who frown at even my most friendly scotches, often warm up to richly flavoured Gin. Maybe this will work as a detour to whisky in the long run. We will see. :)
I will try the old gin on my wife too! Thx for the feedback!
German Gin ?
@@BeatstormX Yes. But the recipe is said to come from an american.
101 the pick of the litter, but the one nobody seems to tout. Value/price ratio, the best bottle out there bar none. And all Turkey products are good quality for money. Great all American brand bourbon. Should have the Turkey wrapped in the American flag.
Truth!!
Wild turkey Longbranch
Jim beam double oak
🥃🥃
1. Buffalo Trace 2. Larceny 3. Wild Turkey 101 4. Eagle Rare 5. Knob Creek SB
Great list James!
@sneksnekitsasnek depends on the whiskey and the individual. Knob Creek SB is 100 proof but still pretty friendly. WT 101 is a little more agressive. But, that works for some people.
Makers mark, basil Hayden’s, gentleman jack, Elijah Craig, Woodford reserve
Good choices!
Awesome list Chris!!!
I wanna try the Angel's Envy but my Liqour store here never goes below $75 do you think that still a good price to try. Everything else tends to fly off the shelves before I get to it😂😂😂😂😂
No do not buy at $75. Aweful deal for an entry level bourbon. State minimum is $50 here and it is still overpriced IMO. Thx for watching!
Wow no love for Heaven Hill eh? Would have Elijah Craig in the top2 or 3 somewhere. Good list Chris Cheers.
Dont get me wrong I try alot of heaven hill stuff too, could have been a top 10 list
Four roses small batch.
I think your top choice is spot-on. It would be my daily drinker but alas Woodford`s Double Oaked is too expensive here in the UK. I happened upon a bottle of Buffalo Trace at less than half the price & although great for the price point it lacked a little in flavour compared to the Double Oaked. I improvised a little & boosted the profile with a couple of shots of Stag JR in the not-quite-full BT & came up trumps. Continuing my search for a cheapish daily I`ve just ordered a Knob Creek at 100 proof.....it just might be the one! Btw I`m paying £52.00 or $65.00 for DO.....what do you pay in Michigan?
Seriously though id share my makers 46, Sazerac Rye and Russlels 10
Saz relye is a good one too, and one I always recommend for someone wanting to branch from bourbon to rye
My wife was the same way until I gave her some good ‘ol Makers Mark. I paired it with some Chocolove Milk Chocolate pieces 😀. She’s a fan of that and Bulliet too now. I find she’s not much of a fan of the higher proof bourbon as of yet. So Makers is mostly hers.
I hate makers, so with my luck my wife would love it😂🤣I'll be sure to try it on her!
Bourbinsane I think the key is maybe the Chocolove. 😜 That brand of milk chocolate is phenomenal!
I sill definetly look out for that too!
I'm a solid craft beer drinker but looking to get into bourbons. Only whiskey/bourbon I've ever had is Jack Daniels and I hate it. I prefer fruity/sweet over salty/peppery. I was thinking of just getting regular Buffalo Trace but the Weller and Woodford seem like a decent try as well....can I get a lil advice on which way to go?
Woodford double oaked or Buffalo trace are great options!
@@Bourbinsane I went with Four Roses for now because state store in PA didn't have buffalo trace and Woodford double oak was $67
@@busared06 four roses usually has a good amount of spice to me. Let me know how ypu like it!
@@Bourbinsane I'll be trying it tomorrow morning after work. Got one of the trial bottles of regular Woodford Reserve too
Awesome!!
Just founded the double baked for $38
😮😮😮buy it all!
I never tried whiskey straight it taste kinda strong for me, i will give it a try again and i need you please to give me just a name of one recommendation 🙏
Best to start with, Buffalo Trace IMO
As a new whiskey drinker I find Old Forester 1910 sightly better than Woodford Double Oak at the same price.
Agreed. I enjoy both. Hard to miss on either!
Nce expository.... Wild Turkey 81 proof.. would be good..
That's one I agree is definetly good stuff, I usually jump to the 101 myself tho
Larceny is a wheater , that is a easy sipper .
Could you please list your choices on your show notes?
I've found a lot of my non-whiskey drinkers like Larceny.
Had a couple people say that. Thx for the feedback!
Good call
That’s the first premium bourbon I bought.
Angel’s Envy bourbon and Rye or Jim Beam BIB
Good options!
Great list here! My wife and I can easily say that Buffalo Trace has been our favorite distillery so far. Right now, I’d say my favorite easy sipper would be the Weller 12. I always find myself reaching for it, but I only refrain because I never know when I’ll be able to find it again. (At least for retail... a couple liquor stores have it marked up for $200)
Looking forward to the barrel proof list! 🥃
Top 5 barrel proof bourbons!? Great idea!
While I appreciate anyone going to these lengths in support of Bourbon I have to add a few notes. Whiskey ans Whisky are not Bourbon and visa versa...yeah I am being a tad snarky, but all in good fun. Have fun finding Weller Special Reserve as it is difficult at best to find, and nowhere for $25. Weller SR is going for around $79 to $100 per bottle in most places. The Woodford Double O is a silky smooth pour but a tad sweet for some. My advice is, first things first. Most people do not start out loving the taste of Bourbon because they do not drink it correctly. Understanding the tip of the tongue is where one taste sweet and the back is where one taste bitter. Start by sipping and feeling the bourbon with the front of the tongue before swallow, then breath out through the nose. People like different things about bourbon, for me, I like the softer sweetness up front found in "wheated" bourbons such as Weller, Maker's Mark where others like the intense burn and a higher rye content. I found Knob Creek smooth up front with a finish which reminds me of a ash tray. To each his or her own but do not be afraid to drop a ice cube in a glass regardless what the Bourbon fanatics say...even the distillery will tell you a bit of ice or water added open up the flavor. Cheers.
Love the feedback! Cheers!🍻
I'm curious, why the Woodford Double Oak over the OF 1910?
Availability mostly. Cant always find 1910 although I am a fan
@@Bourbinsane Ah. Good to know and thanks for the reply. 1910 is actually probably my favorite flavor at that proof. Man, is it delicious. It's like cordial cherries or something.
I get that in alot of OF products. Great stuff
I love Woodford reserve.
EWBOB is an amazing bourbon for the price
Cannot disagree
Yes eagle raye
I would take out Angel`a Envy and add Russell's Reserve
Great choice too!
How about Templeton??
Never tried it actually
Bourbinsane IMG_3200.png
Here's an idea. In order to get your non-whiskey friends to try some whiskies, how about first giving them cognacs?
Ya I really like that idea! Other. On. Ourbon spirits like that or a dark rum for sure is a great suggestion!
Wellers in middle Tenn. is nearly $40..
Good price for the 107 overpriced for the special reserve
@@Bourbinsane yeah, I meant the special reserve. Wellers here is High..
Elijah Craig Small Batch is a very easy drinker that I might spring on a non-whiskey person. I was at a party with a bunch of Jack Daniels drinkers and the like. I had a few bottles handy. They hated the rye, shied away from Wild Turkey, but everyone that tried it loved Four Roses Small Batch. One couple wrote it down to get some later. Cheers!
Cheers brother! Great suggestion!
My unicorn is right over your right shoulder
Eagle would of been my #1. Great fruit and sweetness. Great list!
I know, I would have put it number 1 too, but it isn't available everywhere! Great stuff for sure
Agreed!
What is a good sweet whiskey or bourbon?
Everyone in this video is. Double Oaked, Eagle rare are sweetest on this list imo
If you want a very sweet whiskey Angels envy Rye. If you can find it
I always give WLW, ER17, Blood Oath, ETL and Pappy 23 LOL. HAHAHAHAHAHA
Share the good stuff if you can! I guarantee people may like that p23 and er17 being lower proof haha
Love the show.. just some feedback background music is very distracting when you are talking. Keep up the work
Thank you very much for the feedback, I will be sure to leave it off future episodes!
Of all the bottles I've tried thus far the Woodford Double Oak was the one bottle I decidedly did not like. Tasted horrible to me. I couldn't discern any distinct notes and barely finished the bottle; just a bad taste in my mouth. Having said that, I bought the small 375 ml. bottle and did make it to the finish line. Will not however repurchase. I also bought a small bottle of Woodford Reserve straight Kentuck whiskey. Good juice, easy sippin' if somewhat light on the palate, but not a bad bottle all together. Would recommend to the novice bourbon drinker.
Interesting. Wonder if you got an off bottle. Otherwise maybe that double oaked taste just isn't for you
@@Bourbinsane Could very well be? I went into the bottle with expectations of a desert bourbon with perhaps chocolate notes, maybe a little peanut brittle etc., but all I got was bitterness. To this palate, not good at all. My next stop will be Brown Forman's Old Forester 1920. Been touted as a desert bourbon and I can't wait to try it. A rare occasion where I would be willing to spring $60 for a bottle. As I write this, I'am sippin on' some of the George Dickel Tenn. sour mash whisky # 12 mash bill. 12 not to be confused with an age statement. 90 proof and good mouth feel. Priced in the $20's. Approachable and affordable as an everyday laid back sipper. N.B. Not a bourbon, but damn good sippin' whisky. Tha ky is for Kentucky!
I think it will be hard for you to not enjoy the 1920! Great stuff I love it!! Cheers!🥃
Not an Angel's Envy fan.
Ya it is decent but I definitely prefer several cheaper bottles to it
Michter’s American, Redwood Empire Lost Monarch
Both great options too!
Trying to get your wife into whisky she might not be a bourbon drinker. She might like scotch or Irish.
If i was going to recommend a drink from scotch because its what i have the most experience with. Dalmore 15years old single malt.
That would be a good one. Nice and sweet too! I'll be sure it gove it a try!
@@Bourbinsane thats good enjoy i bourbe my first bourbon makers mark 46 so ill see if its good lol
The booze is just destroying the awesome bourbon flavor
Edit: Would drink alcohol free Bourbon