Top Bourbon Brands You Need to Savor

Bourbon, an iconic American spirit, is celebrated for its rich history and distinctive flavor profile. As enthusiasts continue to explore the diverse world of bourbon, certain brands consistently stand out for their quality and craftsmanship. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, knowing the top brands can enhance your appreciation for this beloved whiskey. Below, discover a curated list of the best bourbon brands that have earned acclaim both domestically and internationally.

Illustration of bourbon

Best brands of bourbon in 2025

Buffalo Trace

Buffalo Trace is one of the premier bourbon producers, known for its high-quality whiskeys such as Weller, Blanton's, Eagle Rare, and the highly sought-after Pappy Van Winkle. The distillery has recently doubled its production capacity with the opening of a new 40-foot tall stillhouse capable of producing 60,000 gallons of whiskey a day, as part of a $1.2 billion expansion that began in 2015 and has already increased supplies by 50% over the past five years. This expansion includes additional facilities such as a new boiler house, fermenters, and aging warehouses, ensuring continued growth and quality. The distillery is committed to maintaining high standards without compromising on quality, even as demand continues to rise. With over 100 awards since 2000, Buffalo Trace solidifies its position as a leading bourbon producer.

Maker's Mark

Maker's Mark is renowned as one of the top producers of bourbon, with a rich history dating back to 1953 when Bill Samuels, Sr. founded the brand by purchasing the Burks Distillery in Loretto, Kentucky. The brand is celebrated for its unique mash bill of 70% corn, 16% red winter wheat, and 14% malted barley, and its use of a 150-year-old heirloom strain of yeast. Maker's Mark bourbons have garnered numerous accolades, including top honors at the 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition and the International Whisky Competition, with the Black Bourbon Society's Maker's Mark Private Selection earning 98 points and a medal. The classic Maker's Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon is bottled at 90 proof and aged for approximately 6 to 7 years. The brand's Cask Strength and limited release series, such as the Wood Finishing Series, have also received high praise for their quality and unique flavor profiles. For more details, explore their range of products on the Maker's Mark brand page.

Woodford Reserve

Woodford Reserve is renowned as one of the premier bourbon producers, known for its meticulously crafted whiskeys made in small batches. The brand's flagship bourbon, for instance, contains 18% rye in its mash bill, contributing to its complex flavor profile that includes notes of citrus, cocoa, and spice. Woodford Reserve has garnered numerous accolades, including double gold medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2005 and 2013, and a World Whisky Brand Champion title in 2021 after reaching the million-case sales mark in 2020. The brand's innovative approach is also evident in its Double Oaked and Master's Collection releases. Under the leadership of Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall since 2023, Woodford Reserve continues to innovate and expand its global presence. For more information, visit their official website: Woodford Reserve.

Four Roses

Four Roses, established in 1888, is a renowned Kentucky bourbon brand that has garnered numerous accolades, including the titles of World's Best Single Barrel Bourbon, Best Kentucky Single Barrel Bourbon, and Best Kentucky Small Batch Bourbon at the 2024 World Whiskies Awards. The brand utilizes five proprietary yeast strains and two separate mashbills to create ten unique recipes, ensuring a rich and consistent flavor profile. Four Roses Small Batch Bourbon, crafted by mingling four distinct recipes, has been praised for its smooth and mellow taste, earning a gold medal at the World Whiskies Awards 2019 and ranking #3 at the Global Drinks Guide Ratings 2023 with 95 points. The distillery produces around 4 million proof gallons annually and has recently expanded its capacity. Four Roses has received 58 awards in the past year, including 2 Double Platinum medals and 26 Gold medals. For more information, explore their official website.

Knob Creek

Knob Creek is renowned as one of the best producers of bourbon, acclaimed for its big, full-flavored profile. Created by Booker Noe, the brand has been setting the standard for over 20 years, with expressions like the Knob Creek Single Barrel Reserve earning top honors, including a Gold Outstanding medal at the 2015 International Wine and Spirits Competition. The Knob Creek Single Barrel Select, with a mash bill of 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% malted barley, is aged for 9 years and bottled at 120 proof, showcasing a rich and complex flavor profile. The brand has accumulated numerous awards, including 49 awards in 2015 and the title of "Best Bourbon" at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Its consistent quality and accolades have solidified Knob Creek's position as the "World's Most Awarded Bourbon." For more insights, visit the official announcement regarding Knob Creek named Best Bourbon.

Bulleit

Bulleit is a renowned brand in the bourbon industry, known for its high-rye content mash bill, which includes 68% corn, 28% rye, and 4% malted barley. Launched in 1995 by Tom Bulleit, the brand has seen significant growth, with a 12.7% increase in sales from 2016 to 2017. Bulleit Bourbon is aged for at least six years and bottled at 45% ABV, with the Barrel Strength variant ranging from 118 to 125 proof. The brand has received numerous awards, including a Double Gold Medal and Best Straight Bourbon at the 2018 San Francisco World Spirits Competition for its Barrel Strength whiskey. Bulleit's 10 Year Old Bourbon has also garnered multiple gold medals and high ratings from various spirits competitions. For more information, visit the Bulleit Bourbon homepage.

Wild Turkey

Wild Turkey is renowned as one of the best producers of bourbon, particularly noted for its high-rye content and robust flavor profiles. The Wild Turkey 101 Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, with its 50.5% Vol., stands out for its intense and flavorful character, aged in American White Oak barrels with a deep alligator char. This bourbon has been consistently produced for over 60 years, maintaining its distinctive taste and pleasant bite, making it highly enjoyable neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails.

Blanton's

Blanton's is renowned as one of the premier producers of bourbon, known for its high-quality and distinct flavor profiles. Introduced in 1984, Blanton's was the first commercially sold Single Barrel Bourbon, leveraging Buffalo Trace Mash Bill #2 with 12-15% rye content. The bourbon is aged in metal-clad Warehouse H, which amplifies temperature and humidity changes, enhancing the interaction between the bourbon and the barrel. Blanton's has received numerous accolades, including a Double Platinum at the 2024 ASCOT Awards and multiple gold medals from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. The brand's meticulous production process, including hand-dumping barrels, contributes to its exceptional flavor character. Learn more about Blanton's Single Barrel Bourbon awards.

Elijah Craig

Elijah Craig is renowned as one of the best producers of bourbon, with a portfolio that includes highly acclaimed expressions such as the Elijah Craig Barrel Proof, which has been awarded the Best Straight Bourbon at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, and the Elijah Craig 18-Year-Old Single Barrel, recognized as the Best Single Barrel Bourbon - 11 Years & Older. The Barrel Proof series is notable for its full barrel proof, varying by release, and its non-chill filtered presentation, preserving the natural flavors of the charred oak barrel aging. The brand also offers a Small Batch Bourbon, characterized by its earthy, musty, and leathery notes, with a mash bill of 78% corn, 10% rye, and 12% malted barley. Elijah Craig bourbons are known for their high quality and value, with the Small Batch available at an affordable price of around $30 USD. The brand's commitment to quality has earned it multiple awards and a strong reputation among whiskey enthusiasts.

Evan Williams

Evan Williams is a highly regarded bourbon brand, known for its rich flavor profile and historical significance. Produced by Heaven Hill Distillery, Evan Williams bourbon is made from a mash bill consisting of 75-78% corn, 10-13% rye, and 12% barley, contributing to its distinct caramel, vanilla, and corn notes. The brand has received numerous accolades, including 7 medals at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, and is recognized for its affordable yet high-quality offerings, such as the Evan Williams Black Label and Single Barrel varieties. Evan Williams Single Barrel is particularly notable for being the only vintage-dated single barrel bourbon on the market, aged for approximately 7 years and 11 months in virgin American white oak barrels. With a long history dating back to 1783, Evan Williams is a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts. For more insights, you can check Evan Williams Bourbon Reviews.