According to the International Wine and Spirits Record (IWSR), global whiskey consumption has steadily increased, with a projected growth of 5.7% between 2020 and 2024.¹
Whether you’re a curious newcomer or a cocktail enthusiast looking to expand your horizons, learning the perfect whiskey can be thrilling.
To help you navigate this exciting realm, we’ve enlisted the expertise of seasoned bartenders who know a thing or two about crafting the perfect pour.
1. Four Roses Yellow Label
Four Roses Yellow Label consistently tops the bartender list when introducing beginners to the bourbon world.(ref)
This well-balanced whiskey offers a smooth finish and a delightful flavor profile that pairs beautifully with a wide range of cocktails. Its affordability and versatility make it an ideal choice for those just starting to explore the realm of bourbon.
Four Roses Yellow Label’s approachable nature allows it to shine in both complex and spirit-forward cocktails, making it a go-to choice for many mixologists.
2. Eagle Rare
For those seeking a quintessential representation of the renowned Buffalo Trace line, Eagle Rare is a must-try. This staple in value bourbon drinking offers a well-rounded flavor profile encompassing an exceptional whiskey’s hallmarks.
Readily available and highly regarded, Eagle Rare is a fantastic introduction to the world of premium bourbons.
Eagle Rare’s smooth drinking experience makes it an ideal choice for beginners exploring bourbon’s nuances. Its balanced flavors and approachable nature allow newcomers to appreciate the complexities of whiskey without being overwhelmed.
3. Bulleit Bourbon
When it comes to a smooth and easy-drinking bourbon, Bulleit is a top contender among bartenders. This whiskey’s versatility allows it to be enjoyed straight up, in a classic Old Fashioned, or mixed with ginger ale for a refreshing twist.
Bulleit’s well-crafted flavor profile ensures a delightful experience without the risk of a dreaded, cheap liquor hangover.
The approachability makes it an excellent choice for those beginners in the world of whiskey. Its smooth taste and adaptability to various cocktails make it a crowd-pleaser and a reliable go-to for any occasion.
4. Blanton’s
Blanton’s Bourbon is a bartender favorite for its exceptional quality, affordability, and impressive accolades. Hailing from a renowned distillery, Blanton’s has garnered numerous awards, solidifying its position as a top choice for bourbon enthusiasts and beginners.
Its accessible price point and outstanding flavor profile make it an irresistible option for those venturing into the realm of bourbon.
Blanton’s Bourbon offers a delightful introduction to the world of premium whiskey without breaking the bank. Its well-balanced taste and smooth finish make it a pleasure to sip neat or on the rocks.
5. Larceny Bourbon
Larceny is a top pick among bartenders regarding approachable bourbons for beginners. This wheat bourbon offers a sweeter, easier-drinking profile that appeals to those just starting their whiskey journey.
Larceny’s balanced flavor makes it an excellent gateway into the bourbon world, providing a smooth introduction without overwhelming the palate.
Crafted with a higher proportion of wheat in the mash bill, Larceny delivers a gentler, more mellow experience than traditional rye-heavy bourbons.
6. Rittenhouse Rye Bottled-in-Bond
Rittenhouse Rye Bottled-in-Bond is a bartender-recommended choice for those eager to venture into the spicier side of whiskey. This rye whiskey, composed of at least 51% grain, allows beginners to experience the bold and spicy characteristics that define the category.
The Bottled-in-Bond designation ensures a high-quality standard, with the whiskey aged for at least four years and bottled at 100 proof.
Rittenhouse Rye’s robust flavor profile lends itself well to both sipping neat and mixing in cocktails. Its versatility allows beginners to explore the various ways in which rye whiskey can be enjoyed, from a classic Manhattan to a refreshing Whiskey Sour.
7. Glenmorangie Nectar d’Or
Stepping into the realm of Scotch whisky can be intimidating for beginners, but Glenmorangie Nectar d’Or offers a welcoming introduction.
This Highland single malt Scotch, finished in Sauternes wine casks, showcases a delightfully sweet and honeyed profile that appeals to those new to the category.
With warm aromas of vanilla and maple, followed by a fruit-forward palate and a chocolate finish, Nectar d’Or is a gateway to the delicious complexities of Scotch whisky.
For bartenders who once believed they could never enjoy Scotch, Glenmorangie Nectar d’Or was the Trojan horse that changed their perception.
Its approachable sweetness and well-rounded flavor profile make it an excellent choice for beginners looking to explore the world of single malt Scotch without being overwhelmed by the more intense, peaty expressions.
8. Weller Special Reserve
Weller Special Reserve, a bourbon from the renowned Buffalo Trace Distillery, has gained a loyal following among whiskey enthusiasts and bartenders. This bourbon’s smooth, easy-drinking nature makes it an ideal choice for those just starting their whiskey journey.
With its sweet, wheat-forward profile and hints of vanilla and caramel, Weller Special Reserve offers a gentle introduction to the bourbon world.
The popularity of Weller Special Reserve has soared in recent years, thanks in part to its association with the highly sought-after Pappy Van Winkle line.
While not as rare or expensive as its famous cousin, Weller Special Reserve delivers a similar bourbon experience at a more accessible price point, making it an attractive option for beginners looking to explore this style of whiskey.
9. Macallan 18
For those ready to dive into the world of premium Scotch whisky, Macallan 18 is a bartender-approved choice that showcases the elegance and complexity of Speyside single malts. Aged for 18 years in sherry oak casks, this whisky develops a rich, smooth profile with notes of dried fruits, spice, and a hint of wood smoke.
While it may be a splurge for beginners, Macallan 18 offers a taste of luxury and refinement that can ignite a passion for high-end Scotch.
Macallan 18’s well-balanced flavor profile and velvety mouthfeel make it a pleasure to sip neat or with a drop of water to open up its aromas.
As beginners explore the nuances of this exquisite whisky, they’ll begin to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into creating a top-tier Scotch.
10. Monkey Shoulder Blended Scotch Whisky
Monkey Shoulder offers a delightful introduction for those eager to dip their toes into the world of Scotch whisky. This blended malt Scotch whisky combines single malts from three famous Speyside distilleries, resulting in a smooth and approachable dram that’s perfect for beginners.
With its rich vanilla and caramel notes, followed by a hint of spice, Monkey Shoulder is a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both novice and experienced whisky drinkers alike.
Monkey Shoulder’s versatility makes it an excellent choice for those looking to explore the various ways in which Scotch whisky can be enjoyed.
Whether sipped neat, on the rocks or mixed into cocktails, this blended malt Scotch whisky adapts beautifully, allowing beginners to discover their preferred style of enjoyment.
11. Basil Hayden’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
When it comes to approachable bourbons for beginners, Basil Hayden’s is a name that frequently comes up among bartenders. This Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey is known for its smooth and easy-drinking nature, making it an ideal choice for those just starting their whiskey journey.(ref)
With its lower proof and gentle flavor profile, Basil Hayden’s allows novices to appreciate the nuances of bourbon without being overwhelmed by alcohol heat.
Basil Hayden’s bourbon showcases a delightful balance of sweet and spicy notes, with hints of vanilla, caramel, and a touch of rye spice.
Its approachability and versatility make it a go-to choice for both sipping neat and mixing into classic cocktails, allowing beginners to explore the many facets of bourbon enjoyment.
12. Suntory Toki Japanese Whisky
For those looking to venture beyond the realms of bourbon and Scotch, Suntory Toki offers a captivating introduction to the world of Japanese whisky.
This blended whisky combines carefully selected malt and grain whiskies from Suntory’s renowned Hakushu, Yamazaki, and Chita distilleries, resulting in a harmonious and refreshing dram.
Suntory Toki’s light and crisp profile makes it an excellent choice for beginners, with its subtle notes of green apple, honey, and a hint of spice.
Its delicate nature allows novices to appreciate the finesse and craftsmanship that goes into creating a Japanese whisky while also providing a gateway to explore the wider world of this fascinating category.
13. Evan Williams Single Barrel Bourbon
Evan Williams Single Barrel Bourbon is a bartender-recommended choice for those seeking a high-quality bourbon experience without breaking the bank.
This single-barrel bourbon allows beginners to taste the unique characteristics of the single-barrel designation, as each bottle is drawn from an individual cask and bottled at a robust 43.3% ABV.
Evan Williams Single Barrel Bourbon delivers a rich and complex flavor profile with notes of caramel, vanilla, and a touch of oak.
Its bold yet balanced nature makes it an excellent choice for sipping neat or on the rocks, allowing beginners to appreciate the depth and nuance that a well-crafted bourbon can offer.
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.
