Your definitive guide to Bourbon in Cocktails: The Best Bourbon for Different Cocktails

Your definitive guide to Bourbon in Cocktails: The Best Bourbon for Different Cocktails 

When it comes to crafting the perfect cocktail, we believe that the choice of bourbon can make all the difference. Each bourbon has its own unique character, enhancing various cocktails in delightful ways. From the classic Old Fashioned to the refreshing Mint Julep, here’s our guide to the best bourbons to use in your favorite cocktails. Today we go over the best bourbons for different cocktails, selecting our favorite 2 for each mix. 

Key Characteristics of Bourbon for Cocktails 

Before diving into our top picks, we think it’s essential to understand what makes a bourbon suitable for cocktails: 

Flavor Profile: A well-balanced bourbon enhances the cocktail without overpowering it. Notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak often work wonders in drinks like the Whiskey Sour. 

Smoothness: We can all agree that a smooth finish is crucial—no one wants a bourbon that hits too hard! We prefer options that are easy to sip and mix well. 

Mixability: Not every bourbon is ideal for mixing. Some may be too bold or complex, while others lack character. We have selected bourbon’s that complement the other ingredients beautifully. 

Best Bourbon for Old Fashioned 

The Old Fashioned is one of the oldest cocktails, dating back to the early 19th century. It’s a simple yet sophisticated mix of bourbon (or rye), sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus. Served over ice, the flavors meld together, showcasing the quality of the bourbon used. We believe the beauty of the Old-Fashioned lies in its minimalist approach, emphasizing the bourbon. A bourbon with rich flavors and a good proof will stand up against the sweetness of the sugar and the bitterness of the bitters, creating a balanced and enjoyable sip. 

Pick 1:  Elijah Craig Small Batch 

We think Elijah Craig is a fantastic choice for your Old Fashioned. Distilled to 94 proof, it offers grassy notes paired with bright citrus flavors. Its complexity brings depth to the cocktail without overwhelming it, ensuring that each sip highlights the bourbon's character.   

Pick 2: Knob Creek Single Barrel Reserve 

For those of us seeking something with a bit more depth, we recommend Knob Creek Single Barrel Reserve. With a proof of 100, this bourbon delivers rich flavors like honey, vanilla, and subtle smokiness. Its boldness enhances the Old Fashioned, making it a satisfying choice for bourbon lovers. 

Best Bourbon for Manhattan 

The Manhattan is a classic cocktail made with bourbon (or rye), sweet vermouth, and bitters. This elegant drink is typically stirred and served in a chilled glass, often garnished with a cherry. We believe the Manhattan is a perfect blend of sweet and bitter, showcasing the interplay between the whiskey and vermouth. The bourbon you choose can elevate the drink significantly. We think it should possess a balance of sweetness and spice to complement the sweet vermouth while enhancing the cocktail’s overall complexity. 

Pick 1: Bulleit Barrel Strength Bourbon 

In our opinion, Bulleit Barrel Strength Bourbon is a standout choice for a Manhattan. Its spicy and oaky notes cut through the sweetness of the vermouth, resulting in a well-balanced cocktail. The high proof (118-125) adds depth, with its unique spicy and oaky flavors, which are intensified during aging.  

Pick 2: Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon 

We think Woodford Reserve is an excellent choice for a Manhattan. Its well-rounded profile offers a nice bite that complements sweet vermouth, creating a smooth and easy-to-sip cocktail. With a higher rye content, Woodford introduces intriguing spice notes alongside caramel and cinnamon sweetness. At 45.2% ABV, it has the strength to balance flavors without being overwhelming. The rich, velvety texture enhances the overall experience, making Woodford Reserve a must-try for any Manhattan lover. 

Best Bourbon for Mint Julep 

The Mint Julep is a refreshing cocktail, especially popular during the Kentucky Derby. Made with bourbon, fresh mint, sugar, and crushed ice, it’s a quintessential summer sipper. Served in a frosty glass, we think it’s the perfect thirst-quencher on a hot day.  

In a Mint Julep, the bourbon needs to have enough kick (90- proof or higher) to stand up against the sweet and refreshing mint, as well as the icy texture. A good bourbon will enhance the cocktail while allowing the mint and sugar to shine. 

Pick 1: Four Roses Single Barrel 

We believe that Four Roses Single Barrel is an ideal pick for Mint Juleps. With a proof of 100 and a high rye content, it has a rich flavor and minimal spiciness that works fantastically well as base liquor for Mint Julep. It’s rich honey and oak flavors complement the mint beautifully making each sip refreshing and flavorful. 

Pick 2: Buffalo Trace Kentucky Bourbon 

For a more approachable option, we think Buffalo Trace is perfect for a Mint Julep. With mellow notes of brown sugar and vanilla, this bourbon pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the sugar and the freshness of the mint, maintaining its character while allowing the drink to shine. 

Best Bourbon for Whiskey sour 

The Whiskey Sour is a timeless mix of bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup, resulting in a refreshing balance of sweet and tart. It's a classic cocktail that highlights the bourbon's profile beautifully. A good bourbon will enhance the richness the cocktail, enhancing the overall flavor profile.  

Pick 1: Old Forester 100 Proof 

We think Old Forester 100 Proof is an exceptional choice for a Whiskey Sour. This bourbon is robust, ensuring its flavor stands out even when mixed. With heavy corn notes reminiscent of cornbread, it also features rich undertones of cocoa, hot chocolate, and cinnamon. The interplay of these flavors combines beautifully with the acidity of lemon, cutting through the sweetness of the sugar. At 100- proof, Old Forester is strong enough to handle the other ingredients, creating a well-rounded cocktail. Its tasting notes of sweet cream and caramelized sugar make it a top pick when looking to craft a bourbon-heavy sour. 

Pick 2: Basil Hayden’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey 

For a milder option, we recommend Basil Hayden’s. Known for its smoothness, this bourbon features a mix of corn and rye, giving it a delightful spiciness that complements the sour elements. With notes of peppermint, honey, and citrus, it blends seamlessly with lemon and sugar. This classic bourbon offers a light, easy-to-sip experience, making it a perfect choice for those who prefer a softer Whiskey Sour. 

Best Bourbon for a Boulevardier 

The Boulevardier is a sophisticated cocktail made with bourbon, sweet vermouth, and Campari, akin to a bourbon Negroni. It’s known for its rich and bold flavors, making it a favorite among whiskey aficionados. 

Pick 1: Wild Turkey 101 

We believe Wild Turkey 101 is an outstanding bourbon for a Boulevardier. Its high rye content delivers a pleasant spiciness that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the vermouth and the bitterness of the Campari. This hearty bourbon stands up well to the strong flavors of the cocktail, allowing you to appreciate its nuances in each sip. We especially love its hint of orange on the finish, which pairs perfectly with the traditional orange twist garnish. 

Pick 2: Knob Creek Smoked Maple Bourbon 

If you’re looking to add a twist to your Boulevardier, Knob Creek Smoked Maple Bourbon is a fantastic option. This maple-infused bourbon offers a unique flavor profile without overpowering the classic cocktail. Its full-bodied character and hints of vanilla and caramel ensure it complements the other ingredients while providing a sweet, smoky finish. We think this version works wonderfully as a post-dinner sipper, evoking the cozy feel of an autumn bonfire.