The Best Gifts For Bourbon Lovers | A List of Things We Actually Want
What Are The Best Gifts For Bourbon Lovers?
If you have a loved one who is a bourbon lover, you're in luck - or maybe you're not, because you might be feeling the pressure to find the perfect bourbon gift that won't make them roll their eyes. Sure, you could get them a t-shirt that says "Bourbon is my spirit animal," or some useless whiskey stones, but why not bypass the gimmicks and get them what they really want: bourbon! In this article, I'm going to provide you with a list of bourbons that are a little hard to find (you will unlikely find them at your local liquor store) and are sure to make any bourbon lover's eyes light up. Plus, they won't break the bank too much - I promise. If you are looking for some uncommon goods you're in the right place. The first section of this article will offer up some more expensive and rare bottles followed by some less expensive bourbon options. If you don't want to go with one of these great bottles I offer up some other great options at the end of the article.
Allocated And Top Shelf Bourbon Gift Options
For the avid bourbon collector, tracking down rare and hard-to-find bottles is the ultimate adventure. While some bourbons are easily available on the shelves of your local liquor store, others are so elusive that they are usually allocated and only sold at special events or auctions. These highly coveted bottles are often the result of limited production runs or small batch releases, making them all the more valuable to bourbon enthusiasts. If you're looking for a rare and unique gift for a fellow bourbon lover or simply want to add to your own collection, exploring the world of difficult-to-find bourbons is definitely worth the effort. These bourbons will be more expensive but will make for an unforgettable gift.
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Eagle Rare 10 Year Bourbon
Eagle Rare 10 year - This is a bourbon that has won numerous awards, and for good reason. It's aged for 10 years and has a spicy, oaky flavor that just screams "bourbon." It's a classic that any bourbon lover will appreciate.
Weller 12 Year Bourbon
Weller 12 year - This Buffalo Trace product is a much coveted, wheated bourbon that is super smooth and has a rich, caramel flavor. It's aged for 12 years, which gives it a deep complexity that bourbon lovers adore. It's definitely a bottle to savor and makes for a great gift. My amazing wife gifted me this bottle for my birthday; it is the best birthday gift I have received! It was a perfect gift.
Weller Antique 107 Bourbon
Weller 107 - Another wheated bourbon from Weller, Antique 107 one is a bit spicier and has more of a kick. It's also hard to find, so it's a great gift for someone who loves unique and hard-to-find bourbons.
Weller Special Reserve Bourbon
Weller Special Reserve - OK, one more Weller, because they're just so good. This one is the lower-end version of Weller, but that doesn't mean it's not just as delicious. It's a bit sweeter and more approachable than the other Weller bourbons on this list. Even though it's the lesser Weller it is still sure to please.
Rock Hill Farms Bourbon
Rock Hill Farms - This is a single-barrel bourbon that is aged for 8-10 years. It has a distinct honey flavor that sets it apart from other bourbons. It's also deliciously smooth and easy to drink. Another bourbon from Buffalo Trace that makes for a great gift. I love the old fashioned look of the bottle.
Elmer T. Lee Bourbon
Elmer T. Lee - This bourbon was created by the master distiller of Buffalo Trace, and it's a favorite among bourbon lovers. It's aged for 7-8 years and has a balanced sweetness and spice that makes it a go-to for sipping.
Blanton's Single Barrel Bourbon
Blanton's Single Barrel - This is a bourbon that is instantly recognizable by its distinctive horse cap. But it's not just the packaging that makes this bourbon special - it's the taste. It has a rich, caramel flavor with a hint of vanilla and oak.
Blanton's Gold Edition Bourbon
Blanton's Gold Edition - This is a rare and expensive bourbon, but if you're looking to splurge on a bourbon lover, this is the way to do it. It's similar to Blanton's Single Barrel but with a bit more depth and complexity. Plus, the red and gold bottle is just plain cool. This is probably my favorite bourbon on this list! Any Whiskey lover would be delighted with this bottle. See my in-depth review of Blanton's Gold Edition here.
Blanton's Straight From The Barrel Bourbon
Blanton's Straight from the Barrel - This bourbon is bottled at cask strength, which means it hasn't been watered down at all and comes straight out of the bourbon barrels. It's a strong, bold bourbon that has a slightly smoky flavor. It's not for the faint of heart, but bourbon lovers will appreciate its intensity.
Michter's 10 Year Bourbon
Michter's 10 year - This bourbon is aged for 10 years, which makes it incredibly smooth and easy to drink. It has notes of cinnamon and nutmeg, which makes it perfect for sipping on a cold winter night. See my in-depth review of Michter's 10 year here.
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof 12 Year
With Elijah Craig Barrel Proof, you're getting the truest essence of Bourbon. It's completely uncut, taken straight from the barrel, and without chill filtering. Each bottle has its own proof and batch number, but the aroma, flavor, and aftertaste are all undiluted Elijah Craig. This one will light up the taste buds. The true bourbon lover would be very happy with this bottle of bourbon. See my in-depth review of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof here.
Elijah Craig 18 Year Bourbon
Elijah Craig 18 year - This is a bourbon that is aged for an impressive 18 years in oak barrels. It has a deep, rich flavor with notes of caramel, maple syrup, oak, and vanilla. It's a bourbon that is meant to be savored, and any bourbon lover would be thrilled to receive a bottle as a gift.
Use my exclusive Caskers.com discount code: WHISKEYFOOL10 to receive $10 off qualifying* orders. Copy and paste to use at checkout.
*$100 or more
Less Expensive But Still Great Bourbon Gift Options
Are you on a budget but still want to give a thoughtful bourbon gift? Look no further! This section offers some incredible options that won't break the bank. From unique blends to vintage bottles, there is a range of choices that are perfect for the bourbon lover in your life. These less expensive options still pack a punch and will be appreciated just as much as their pricier counterparts. So, whether you're shopping for a holiday or a special occasion, there's no need to overspend to impress. Take a peek at these affordable choices and find the perfect bourbon gift today.
Wild Turkey Rare Breed
Rare Breed is an extraordinary "barrel-proof bourbon" that is bottled directly from a blend of barrels, without any added water to lower the proof or dilute its flavor. This unique bourbon combines Wild Turkey's 6, 8, and 12 year old stocks to create a remarkably smooth and rich whiskey, despite its high alcohol content. See my in-depth of Wild Turkey Rare Breed here.
Wild Turkey Kentucky Spirit Single Barrel
Each bottle of Wild Turkey Kentucky Spirit Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey is completely unique and filled from a single cask, resulting in a distinct flavor profile. They will enjoy the experience of savoring this exceptional whiskey. See my in-depth review of Wild Turkey Kentuck Spirit here.
Four Roses Single Barrel
This premium Single Barrel offers a taste worth savoring. It boasts a complex flavor profile, full body, and surprisingly smooth texture. The delicate, long finish is unbelievably mellow, leaving a lasting impression. This is a must have bourbon and can be used to make a premium old Fashioned.
Knob Creek 12 Year
The Knob Creek 12 Year Old is a delicious small batch, Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. It's been carefully aged for 12 years and bottled at 100 proof for a rich and flavorful experience.
Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel
Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel is an award-winning Bourbon, that undergoes a second maturation in a custom toasted barrel, imparting an additional level of sweetness and complexity from the oak. With a proof of 94, this Bourbon features delightful hints of baking spices and chocolate, culminating in a long and velvety-smooth finish. This bottle also has a great maple syrup nose that I love. See my in-depth review of Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel here.
Use my exclusive Caskers.com discount code: WHISKEYFOOL10 to receive $10 off qualifying* orders. Copy and paste to use at checkout.
*$100 or more
Russell's Reserve Single Barrel
Russell's Reserve Single Barrel Kentucky Straight is a high-quality bourbon whiskey crafted by Wild Turkey Distillery. This exceptional spirit is aged for a minimum of 10 years, resulting in a remarkable flavor profile. Each bottle is carefully selected from a single barrel by the distiller to ensure its distinctiveness. With an above-average proof of 55% ABV (110 proof), this whiskey offers a bold and satisfying experience.
For some other great bottles/gifts for bourbon lovers see Discover the Best Wheated Bourbons | A List of High and Low-Priced Options
In Conclusion...We Want Bourbon!
Bourbon lovers can be a picky bunch, but if you can find the right bourbon to give as a gift, you'll be their hero. The bourbons on this list are all unique, hard-to-find, and absolutely delicious. Whether you're looking to spend a little or a lot, there's a bourbon on this list that will fit your budget and make your bourbon-loving friend or family member very happy. So skip the gimmicky bourbon gifts and go straight for the good stuff - you'll make their day! Bourbon drinkers don't want whiskey stones! Whiskey stones don't really work and are useless. Below are some alternative gifts for bourbon lovers.
More Great Gift Ideas For Bourbon Lovers
Bartesian Premium Cocktail Machine
The Bartesian Professional Cocktail Machine allows you to recreate the taste, experience, and ambiance of premium bar cocktails. Its stylish touchpoints, effortless capsule latch, and LED light that highlights each cocktail make every drink feel special.
What sets Bartesian Professional apart is its speed and ease of use. Anyone can craft a perfect cocktail in seconds. Simply insert a capsule, place the cocktail glass on the bar mat, and choose the preferred strength, ranging from mocktail to strong. Bartesian Professional quickly extracts the spirit from the appropriate bottle and crafts a fresh, delicious cocktail.
Flaviar Whiskey Club Gift Subscription
What's better than 1 bottle of whiskey? A whole year's worth of whiskey-tasting experiences. With this subscription, they will receive pre-selected quarterly shipments that include one full-size bottle of must-have whiskey from the world's best distillers. But that's not all. The real game-changer is the Tasting Boxes™ - each shipment comes with three 1.7 oz vials of exciting whiskey samples with tasting notes. It's like a treasure hunt in every box, helping them discover their new favorite whiskey. This is a great way to sample many different whiskeys without having to pay full price for the entire bottle. Read more at flaviar.com
Solo Stove Bonfire Smokeless Firepit With Stand
What's better than sipping a nice bourbon around a fire pit? The Solo Stove Bonfire Smokeless Firepit is perfect for those who want to enjoy a warm, cozy night with family and friends, without the mess and hassle that typically follows. With its patented technology, this portable wood-burning fire pit is the perfect addition to any outdoor adventure from camping trips to just a night with friends and family in the backyard. To make things even more convenient, the Stand allows you to take the Bonfire almost anywhere, as it's heat-sensitive and safe to use on the deck, grass, and other turf. Plus, you don't have to worry about your clothes and hair smelling like a campfire, thanks to the smokeless firepit, which will leave you with only fine ash for cleaning up. They will be drawn to the beautiful flame and will be able to enjoy a nice bourbon without the mess and hassle of a traditional fire pit.
Glencairn Whiskey Glass Set
These glasses are more than just your average glassware - they are the preferred choice for tasting and nosing whiskey. Not only do they enhance the aroma of the whiskey, but they also allow for a full sensory experience with each sip. Plus, with their sleek and stylish design, they're sure to impress any whiskey enthusiast. Give the gift of an elevated drinking experience with the Glencairn Whiskey glass set.
Libbey Signature Kentucky Bourbon Trail Whiskey Tasting Glasses
Then it's time to step up their tasting game with the Libbey Signature Kentucky Bourbon Trail 4-piece Whiskey Glass Set. This isn't just any glass set - it's the official tasting glass of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. That means it's designed to enhance the tasting experience and bring out the best in fine bourbons. With a thick sham that fits their grip, a wide bowl for ample surface area, and a narrow neck that draws aromas to the ultrathin rim, these glasses are made to elevate their sipping game. Plus, the wide mouth is perfect for nosing your favorite whiskey. This is my favorite glass for sipping bourbon neat.
BrüMate NOS'R, Double-Wall Stainless Steel Whiskey Nosing Glass
Whether they're heading out on a camping trip, hitting the beach, or just need a sturdy cup for everyday use, the NOS'R has got them covered. Crafted from high-quality, food-grade stainless steel, this cup is not only shatter-proof and rust-resistant, but it's also super easy to take wherever. Say goodbye to carrying around fragile glasses and hello to durability with portability. The NOS'R is a game changer for anyone who wants a cup that can keep up with their on-the-go lifestyle. My wife gifted me one of these and it is great for sipping whiskey around a fire.
Wintersmiths Ice Baller Double - Crystal-Clear Ice Ball Mold
The Wintersmiths Clear Ice Ball Maker delivers two crystal-clear slow-melting 60mm (2.36") diameter ice balls. This little device is compact enough to fit in your freezer and creates an elevated drinking experience without watering down delicious cocktails. Even better, Wintersmiths only uses BPA-free plastic, food-grade silicone, and EPP foam to ensure the most premium quality experience. Top bars, restaurants, and professional bartenders worldwide trust Wintersmiths for consistent results. I love this ice baller and am always pleased with the crystal-clear ice it produces! Perfect ice ball for an old-fashioned or any other bourbon cocktails.
Final Thoughts
As someone who enjoys a good pour myself, I can confidently say that any of the items on this list would be greatly appreciated. Whether it's one of the coveted bottles of whiskey, a set of high-quality glasses, or a whiskey club subscription, these are all gifts that will elevate the whiskey-drinking experience. And let's be real, who doesn't love a thoughtful and useful gift? So treat your whiskey-loving friend (or yourself!) to one of these items - they're sure to love it.