12 Of The Best Bourbons To Drink At The 19th Hole
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.
Whether you’re sitting at the 19th hole, or kicking back to watch the final round of The Masters, here are 10 must-try bourbons to enjoy while you unwind.
Woodford Reserve
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. $50
Bulleit Bourbon
Bulleit used to be a whiskey drinker’s little secret. Not anymore. That’s why you see this bourbon in any clubhouse bar that’s worth being in. It’s one of those after round whiskeys that make all those strokes you left out there worth it. Bold in flavor with a deep amber color and a caramel-vanilla aroma, it goes down with a bite that makes you thirsting for more. Sip it neat or shake it up in a Manhattan or Old Fashioned. Prices vary, but the value doesn’t. $35
Breckenridge
Many bourbons hail from the great state of Kentucky but this beauty from Breckenridge, Colorado is a must try if available after at the bar or anywhere else. Winner of double gold at the International Wine & Spirits Competition, Breckenridge is made with actual snowmelt from the Rocky Mountains and features notes of fruits, citrus, vanilla and marshmallow mixed with a pepper-like finish. Unique, indeed. $52
Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel Straight Kentucky Bourbon
From the folks who bring you Wild Turkey comes this top-tier offering called Russell’s Single Reserve. Individually bottled at 110 proof it’s non-chill filter provides maximum flavor which combines a signature rich, creamy toffee and vanilla for a distinctly unique taste. Anything matured in something called No.4 “alligator” charred white oak barrels has got to be good. The beauty will run you around $50.
High West
High West is not necessarily from Kentucky but it’s got roots there. Hailing from the Wasatch Mountains of Park City, Utah it’s a secret blend of a 2 year old bourbon from Indiana (made from a mash of 75% corn, 20% rye and 5% barley), a 6 year old bourbon from Kentucky, and a 13 year old bourbon from Kentucky, American Prairie is finished in American white oak casks.
Plus, 10 percent of the profits from the sale of each bottle are donated to the American Prairie Foundation. “High West is passionate about the American West ” our home ” and more importantly we want to help preserve its culture, heritage, and natural beauty,” said David Perkins, High West’s manager.
Sip it neat or on the rocks, preferably with your feet up and a cigar after the round.
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. Looking good is half the battle in golf anyway. Moreover, it’s the hints of butterscotch and a vanilla finish leaves you thirsting for more. $55
Maker’s 46
aker’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 around $35.
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.
Old Forester
Old Forester prides itself as being the first ever bottled bourbon on the market starting over 145 years ago. A classic combination of vanilla, caramel, and lots of spice greet you immediately and then fade into a finish of spruce and oak. This whiskey is as is deep as playing from the tips.
Knob Creek
After walking the course under the hot sun, Knob Creek’s smooth yet full-flavored bourbon is the perfect refreshing reward. Its sweet aromas of caramel and oak make each sip go down easy, while its spicy rye kick and hints of leather give it a complexity that complements the satisfaction of a round well played.
Four Roses
With hints of ripe plum and cherries, Four Roses’ mellow, fruity bourbon smooths the edges after a long day on the links. Its gentle spice warms you up while its sweetness brings out notes of fresh cut grass and toasted grain, recalling familiar golf course scents. The medium body and crisp finish make each sip satisfying, perfectly capping off the peaks and valleys of your round.
