An Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. This simple yet sophisticated drink is made with just a few ingredients: bourbon, sugar, bitters, and garnishes.
Choosing the right bourbon is key to making the perfect Old Fashioned, and a top shelf bourbon can make all the difference.
In this article, we'll take a look at the top 10 best top shelf bourbons that are perfect for an Old Fashioned.
We'll explore each bourbon's unique flavor profiles, strengths, and characteristics, so you can find the one that's right for you.
We'll also include some classic Old Fashioned recipes so that you can put your newfound knowledge to the test.
But first, let's begin with some information about how bourbon is made.
How Bourbon is Made
Not all bourbons are created equal, and the key to a top shelf bourbon is in the way it is made.
A top shelf bourbon starts with quality ingredients. It includes carefully selected grains (at least 51% from corn), water from a specific source, and cultivated yeast to produce the desired flavor profile.
The mixture is then heated, stirred and left to ferment, which allows for all the ingredients to break down.
After fermentation, the process of distilling bourbon is also crucial, with the best bourbons being distilled to a high proof and then cut with water to a lower proof for aging.
After distilling, the bourbon is ready for barreling and aging.
What's the Aging Process of Bourbon?
At a minimum, all bourbon must be aged for a minimum of 2 years. For straight bourbon whiskey, there is a maximum aging process of 4 years.
Alternatively, bottled-in-bond bourbons must be aged for a minimum of 4 years.
The best bourbons are aged up to 10 years in new American oak barrels that are charred on the inside, which adds depth and complexity to the final product.
After the aging process is complete, top shelf bourbons are bottled and labeled to meet rigorous standards, ensuring that they meet the expectations of discerning drinkers.
Now that we understand the process of making bourbon, let's dive into the 10 best top shelf bourbons for an Old Fashioned.
Maker's Mark 46 Bourbon
Maker's Mark 46 Bourbon is a smooth and balanced bourbon that is perfect for an Old Fashioned. This iconic bourbon is made with a blend of corn, wheat, and barley, which gives it a unique, mellow flavor.
The corn's sweetness is balanced by the spices from the wheat and barley, making for a perfectly balanced and smooth drink.
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Knob Creek 12 Year Bourbon
Knob Creek 12 Year Bourbon is a full-bodied straight bourbon that is perfect for those who prefer a bold and robust flavor.
This top-shelf bourbon is made with a high concentration of corn, which gives it a sweet and rich taste.
The aging process of Knob Creek contributes to its bold flavor profile, making it the perfect bourbon for an Old Fashioned.
Check Our Knob Creek 12 Year Bourbon Price
Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a premium small-batch whiskey made from corn, rye, and malted barley.
Aged for at least eight years in oak barrels, it features a rich, complex flavor with notes of toffee, vanilla, and spice. Its smooth and mellow finish makes it a top choice for sipping straight or in cocktails like the Mint Julep.
Produced by the Buffalo Trace Distillery, which has a history dating back over 200 years, this bourbon is widely recognized for its exceptional quality and craftsmanship.
Check Our Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Price
Wild Turkey 101
Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon is considered a strong bourbon with a high alcohol content of 50.5% ABV (101 proof). Its high proof makes it a popular choice for those who prefer a bolder and more robust flavor profile in their whiskey.
The high alcohol content also gives Wild Turkey 101 a noticeable heat and a strong kick on the palate. However, it is still well-balanced and complex, with notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and spice.
Overall, Wild Turkey 101 is a top shelf bourbon that is perfect for those who appreciate a strong and flavorful whiskey.
The high proof of Wild Turkey makes it a powerful choice for an Old Fashioned, so be sure to enjoy it in moderation.
Check Our Wild Turkey 101 Price
Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Bourbon
Woodford Reserve Double Oaked is a smooth and balanced bourbon that is perfect for those who prefer a more refined flavor.
The top-shelf bourbon is made with a unique blend of grains, which gives it a complex and well-rounded flavor.
The aging process of Woodford Reserve contributes to its smooth and balanced flavor profile, making it the perfect choice for an Old Fashioned.
Check Our Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Bourbon Price
Bulleit Bourbon Whiskey
Bulleit Bourbon Whiskey has a robust tasting profile that is both bold and spicy. The full-bodied flavor is a result of the high rye content in the mash bill, which gives the whiskey its signature spiciness.
It also has notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak that come from aging the whiskey in new American oak barrels. Bulleit Bourbon has a smooth and easy-drinking finish that makes it a popular choice for both sipping neat and mixing in an Old Fashioned.
Bulleit Bourbon Whiskey was originally created by Augustus Bulleit in the 1800's, a tavern keeper and whiskey maker from Louisville, Kentucky. The recipe for Bulleit Bourbon was lost when Augustus passed away in 1860, but it was rediscovered by his great-great-grandson, Tom Bulleit, in the 1980s.
Tom revived the family recipe and started producing Bulleit Bourbon once again. Today, the brand is owned by Diageo and has gained widespread popularity around the world.
Bulleit Bourbon is also committed to sustainability and reducing its environmental impact by using energy-efficient equipment and recycled materials in its production process.
Check Our Bulleit Bourbon Whiskey Price
Basil Hayden's Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
The flavor profile of Basil Hayden's Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is unique and distinctive. It has a subtle and sweet aroma of caramel and vanilla, with a slight hint of spice.
The initial taste is smooth and light, with notes of toasted oak and a gentle sweetness. As the bourbon is savored, the flavors evolve and the spiciness becomes more pronounced, adding a gentle heat that lingers on the palate.
What is unique about Basil Hayden's Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is its lower alcohol content, which is 40% ABV.
This lower alcohol content makes it a great choice for those who prefer a more subtle and delicate flavor in their whiskey.
Its gentle flavor profile makes it a perfect match for a classic Old Fashioned, where the whiskey's sweetness and spice are accentuated by the bitters and citrus.
Basil Hayden's Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a great choice for those who are new to the world of bourbon, as well as for more seasoned whiskey drinkers who appreciate its smooth and mellow flavor profile.
Check Our Basil Hayden's Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Price
Jim Beam Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Jim Beam Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a classic American whiskey made from corn, rye, and malted barley.
Its unique recipe is made up of 77% corn, 13% rye, and 10% malted barley. This high percentage of corn gives the whiskey its signature sweetness, while the rye and barley add complexity and depth of flavor.
The whiskey is then aged for at least four years in charred oak barrels, which gives it a rich amber color and adds notes of vanilla and caramel to the flavor profile.
The nose is sweet and spicy, with aromas of vanilla, caramel, and a hint of cinnamon.
On the palate, the flavors are layered and well-balanced. The initial taste is sweet and woody, with notes of toasted oak and a gentle spice.
As the whiskey is savored, the flavors evolve and the spiciness becomes more pronounced, adding a gentle heat that lingers on the palate.
Its distinct amber color and signature taste have made it a beloved favorite for over 200 years. Perfect for sipping neat, on the rocks, or in classic cocktails like an Old Fashioned or Manhattan.
Check Our Jim Beam Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Price
Eagle Rare 10 Year Bourbon
Eagle Rare 10 Year Bourbon is a highly sought-after top-shelf bourbon that offers a complex and refined flavor profile.
Made with a unique blend of corn, rye, and barley, this bourbon is crafted to perfection and aged for at least 10 years in charred oak barrels.
The aging process imparts a deep amber color to the whiskey and adds notes of vanilla, caramel, and toasted oak to the flavor profile.
On the nose, Eagle Rare 10 Year Bourbon has a rich and sweet aroma with notes of honey, brown sugar, and butterscotch. The initial taste is smooth and sweet, with flavors of vanilla, toffee, and dark fruit.
As the whiskey is savored, the flavors deepen and become more complex, with notes of leather, tobacco, and a hint of spice. The finish is long and satisfying, with a gentle heat that lingers on the palate.
What sets Eagle Rare 10 Year Bourbon apart from other bourbons is its commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
Each batch is carefully selected by the master distiller and aged for a minimum of 10 years to ensure consistent quality and taste. The result is a well-balanced and sophisticated top shelf bourbon that is perfect for those who appreciate a refined and complex flavor profile. It is a testament to the art of bourbon-making and a must-try for any whiskey enthusiast.
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Four Roses Single Barrel
Four Roses Single Barrel is a smooth and balanced bourbon that is perfect for those who prefer a lighter flavor.
On the nose, Four Roses Single Barrel Bourbon has a rich and sweet aroma with notes of honey, ripe fruits, and floral hints.
The initial taste is smooth and sweet, with flavors of vanilla, honey, and ripe red fruits.
As the whiskey is savored, the flavors deepen and become more complex, with notes of baking spices, toasted oak, and a hint of leather.
The finish is long and satisfying, with a gentle heat that lingers on the palate.
What sets Four Roses Single Barrel Bourbon apart from other bourbons is its unique and highly acclaimed distilling process.
The bourbon is made using only the highest quality ingredients, and it is distilled using a proprietary process that separates the whiskey into 10 different recipes. The different recipes are then blended to create a unique and complex flavor profile that is highly sought after by whiskey enthusiasts.
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Choosing The Right Bourbon For Your Old Fashioned
When it comes to making an Old Fashioned, it's important to consider your personal taste preferences.
If you prefer a sweeter drink, you may want to opt for bourbon with a sweeter flavor profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a stronger drink, you may want to choose a high-proof bourbon with a bold flavor.
Another important factor to consider is the strength of the bourbon, as this will impact the overall flavor of the drink.
Be sure to match the strength of the bourbon with the other ingredients, such as the sugar. Choosing the right bourbon is key to elevating this classic cocktail to the next level
Old Fashioned Recipes
Now that we've explored the 10 best top shelf bourbons for an Old Fashioned, let's look at some classic Old Fashioned recipes you can use to make this timeless cocktail.
Classic Old Fashioned Recipe
Preparation Time: 5 Minutes
Serving: 1
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Bulleit Bourbon Whiskey
- 1 sugar cube
- 2 dashes of Angostura Aromatic Bitters
- Orange peel
- Luxardo Maraschino cherry
Instructions:
- Muddle the sugar cube, bitters, and orange peel in a mixing glass.
- Add ice to the mixing glass and pour in the bourbon.
- Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the ingredients are well combined.
- Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with an orange peel and a maraschino cherry.
Cinnamon Old Fashioned Recipe
Preparation Time: 5 Minutes
Serving: 1
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Wild Turkey 10
- 1 sugar cube
- 2 dashes of Angostura Orange Bitters
- Orange peel
- Luxardo Maraschino Cherry
- Cinnamon stick
Instructions:
- Muddle the sugar cube, bitters, orange peel, and cinnamon stick in a mixing glass.
- Add ice to the mixing glass and pour in the bourbon.
- Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the ingredients are well combined.
- Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass containing ice.
- Garnish with an orange peel and a maraschino cherry.
Maple Old Fashioned Recipe
Preparation Time: 5 Minutes
Serving: 1
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Nulu Toasted Bourbon
- 1 tsp maple syrup
- 2 dashes of Angostura Aromatic Bitters
- Orange peel
- Luxardo Maraschino Cherry
Instructions:
- Muddle the maple syrup, bitters, and orange peel in a mixing glass.
- Add ice to the mixing glass and pour in the bourbon.
- Stir until the maple syrup is dissolved and the ingredients are well combined.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with an orange peel and a maraschino cherry.
Tips for choosing the right bourbon for your Old Fashioned
Don’t be afraid to experiment. Try different bourbons to find the one that works best for you. Keep in mind that different brands may vary in their flavor profile and strength, so it’s worth trying a few different options to find the perfect one for your Old Fashioned
Other Great Top Shelf Bourbon Cocktail Recipes
A top shelf bourbon can make more than just the old-fashioned. Here are other great bourbon cocktails you can try out:
Bourbon Sour Recipe
Preparation Time: 5 Minutes
Serving: 1
Ingredients:
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- Dash of Angostura Orange Bitters (optional)
- Luxardo Maraschino Cherry and lemon for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill a shaker with ice.
- Add the bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, and orange bitters (if using).
- Shake well for about 10-15 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry and lemon wheel.
Manhattan Recipe
Preparation Time: 5 Minutes
Serving: 1
Ingredients:
- Dash of Angostura Aromatic Bitters
- Luxardo Maraschino Cherries for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Add the bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
- Stir for about 20-30 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry.
Mint Julep Recipe
Preparation Time: 5 Minutes
Serving: 1
Ingredients:
2 oz Four Roses Single Barrel Bourbon
8-10 fresh mint leaves
1 oz simple syrup
Crushed ice for serving
Instructions:
- Muddle the mint leaves and simple syrup in a mixing glass.
- Add the bourbon and fill the glass with ice.
- Stir until the outside of the glass becomes frosty.
- Strain into a chilled julep cup filled with crushed ice.
- Garnish with a sprig of mint.
Conclusion
When it comes to making an Old Fashioned, choosing the right bourbon is key to elevating this classic cocktail.
A top shelf bourbon will add depth and complexity to the drink, making for a truly memorable experience. From smooth and balanced to bold and full-bodied, there’s a top shelf bourbon for every taste preference.
So take some time to explore and find the perfect bourbon for your Old Fashioned, and enjoy this timeless classic to the fullest. Happy sipping!