Over the past 10 years or so, bourbon's popularity has significantly grown as more people get familiar with its vast selections. Bourbon is well known for its distinct flavors, unique aging techniques, and intricate production process.
While there are exceptional bourbons available for various affordable price points, there exists a special category that embodies unparalleled exclusivity and luxury. This category entails bourbons produced in limited quantities and aged extensively, making them the most sought-after. Here are the 10 most expensive bourbons available today.
Pappy Van Winkle 20 Year Family Reserve
The Pappy Van Winkle 20 Year Family Reserve starts our list of the top 10 most expensive bourbons. It is a highly sought-after bourbon known for its limited availability, rich history, and exceptional quality. Produced by the Buffalo Trace Distillery, this whiskey is part of the exclusive Van Winkle line of whiskeys. It is one of the older releases from the distillery, which contributes to its popularity among whiskey connoisseurs.
The bourbon has a smooth and mellow finish with notes of spices, vanilla, oak, and caramel. Today, a bottle of this bourbon goes for approximately $2000.
Willet Family Estate 19 Year Old Single Barrel Bourbon
Willet Family Estate 19 Year Old Single Barrel Bourbon is a highly regarded bourbon whiskey produced by the Willet Distillery. This bourbon has aged nearly two decades in charred oak barrels and offers a nuanced and complex flavor profile. It typically exhibits deep and rich flavors of vanilla, oak, spices, and caramel.
The patience and perseverance it took to produce this high-quality bourbon is the perfect representation of everything the Willet family stands for. If you are lucky enough to come across a bottle of this bourbon, consider it a rare opportunity to experience exceptional spirit from the Willet Distillery. You can purchase a single bottle of the Willet Family Estate 19 Year Old Single Barrel Bourbon for $2500.
Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. 18 Year Old Marriage Bourbon Whiskey
Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. 18 Year Old Marriage Whiskey is a unique bourbon that combines barrels from three mash bill recipes: two bourbons made with rye and one wheated bourbon. The marriage of these recipes gives this whiskey a rich palate of cinnamon and caramel, a long finish of toasted oak, and a nose of vanilla butter cake. The whiskey is also produced at Buffalo Trace, and the supply is significantly limited, so a bottle of this bourbon will cost you an average of $2500.
Pappy Van Winkle 23 Year Old Bourbon Whiskey
Pappy Van Winkle 23 Year Old Bourbon is one of the world's most coveted and prestigious bourbons. The bourbon is produced by the Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery and is aged for an impressive 23 years, resulting in a complex and rare flavor profile. The 23 Year Old bourbon offers a rich amber color with aromas of vanilla, oak, and caramel. On the palate, expect to find flavors of dark chocolate, coffee, spices, and dried fruits.
Pappy Van Winkle 23 Year Old Bourbon is also incredibly hard to find, and the suggested retail prices on the secondary market can be quite exorbitant. A single bottle can cost you $2.5, 499.99.
Michter's 20 Year Old 2021 Edition
The Michter's 20 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon 2021 edition is one of the oldest bourbons in the Michter's lineup. The release of this bourbon showed how thoughtful attention throughout the aging process can produce a stunning expression. Extra attention was paid to all the barrels when they hit 15 years to achieve an impeccable balance of oak-driven flavor and complexity.
The demand and swift action of enthusiasts has caused the price to increase significantly. At the moment, a bottle of Michter's 20 Year Old 2021 Edition costs $3500.
The Last Drop 1980 Buffalo Trace Bourbon Whiskey
The Last Drop 1980 Buffalo Trace Bourbon Whiskey comes from the Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky. It was distilled by Gary Gayheart and uncovered by Harlan Wheatley, his apprentice. This vintage bourbon has a flamboyant taste with an orchestra of harmoniously mingled flavors. The finish miraculously changes from a dark chocolate, caramel, oak, almond, and leather to a delicate, warming spiciness. It is truly an extraordinary and memorable experience from the initial drops. A bottle can be purchased today for $7500.
Double Eagle Very Rare 2019 Bourbon
Double Eagle Very Rare 2019 Bourbon is one of the most exquisite pieces with two sculptured crystal glass eagles. It is aged for twenty years, which is twice as long as what is required for a regular Eagle Rare Bourbon. Only 199 bottles were created exclusively, with each bottle containing a numbered letter of authenticity.
Since its release, Double Eagle Very Rare 2019 Bourbon has gained a cult following. It became highly sought-after among whiskey connoisseurs, with bottles frequently commanding exorbitant prices in the secondary market. Anyone who decides to acquire this bourbon should expect to pay at least $10000 for a bottle.
Heaven Hill 17 Year Old Barrel Proof
This bourbon is a true legend, boasting a rich history that dates back to the 1930s when the Shapira family founded Heaven Hill Distillery. This Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a delightful concoction with a mashbill that'll make your taste buds tingle. Picture this: 78% corn, 10% rye, and 12% malted barley, expertly blended to create a flavor profile that's simply sublime. It's also bottled at an impressive 125.0 proof, packing a punch with its 62.5% ABV.
Let's talk about flavor. There’s a rich smell of caramel from what appears to be a lot of barrel influence from a foot away. Soft orange peel floats across the air. On the nose, there’s immediate detection of rich, black molasses and certainly a lot of oak going on. A wonderful cinnamon spice trail leads to rich pepper, wet soil, and a deep pile of firewood.
Finding this gem can be challenging. The limited distribution means you might have to unleash your inner bourbon detective to locate a bottle. And when you do stumble upon one, expect to pay a pretty penny. The bottle goes for $750 at our online liquor store.
So, fellow bourbon lovers, if you're ready to embark on a flavor adventure like no other, keep your eyes peeled for Heaven Hill 17 Year Old Barrel Proof. It's a sip worth seeking!
Old Rip Van Winkle 10 Years Bourbon Whiskey
Old Rip Van Winkle 10 Years Bourbon Whiskey is a true gem, sought after by bourbon aficionados worldwide. Crafted by the legendary Van Winkle family, whose mastery spans generations, this bourbon is a testament to their artistry. Aged for a decade in charred oak barrels, it develops an intricate tapestry of aromas and flavors that will leave you in awe. We're talking hints of velvety caramel, peppery brown spice, and a touch of oak tannins featuring a long, smoky wheat finish that'll make your taste buds dance with joy.
Now, here's the catch: finding this liquid gold can be elusive. It's like trying to find a unicorn riding a rainbow. Limited distribution and sky-high demand mean you might have to channel your inner Indiana Jones to track down a bottle. And when you do, be ready to part ways with a significant chunk of change. This coveted bourbon goes for $550 per bottle.
But hey, good things in life are worth the hunt, right? So, go forth, bourbon enthusiasts, and may the spirits be with you on your quest for Old Rip Van Winkle 10 Years!
William Larue Weller Bourbon 2021
William Larue Weller Bourbon 2021 is a highly sought-after bourbon produced by the Buffalo Trace Distillery. It's a wheated bourbon, meaning it uses wheat rather than rye, giving it a unique sweet taste that many whiskey aficionados love.
The bourbon has notes of caramel, vanilla, butterscotch and dark cherries, resulting in an exquisite flavor profile. If you prefer the mellow taste of wheated bourbons to the sharper taste of rye, you might enjoy sipping on William Larue Weller. You can buy a bottle today for $1150.
Conclusion
The above high-end bourbons are not merely spirits but symbols of refinement and prestige. Each bottle has its history and an unwavering commitment to perfection and quality. The prices attached to these bourbons may initially feel astounding, but they represent the years of craftsmanship, meticulous attention, and dedication that go into their production.
FAQs
What factors contribute to the high price of expensive bourbons?
Several factors contribute to the high price of expensive bourbons. These include rarity, limited production quantities, the age of the whiskey, the reputation of the distillery, the quality of the ingredients used, and the demand among collectors and enthusiasts.
Can I find the most expensive bourbons in regular liquor stores?
It's unlikely to find the most expensive bourbons in regular liquor stores as they are often limited editions or allocated releases. These highly sought-after bottles are typically distributed through a combination of lottery systems, exclusive retailers, and private collectors. However, specialty online liquor stores have them in stock.
Can I invest in expensive bourbons for potential future value?
Some collectors and investors see expensive bourbons as potential investment opportunities. However, it's important to note that investing in spirits can be a complex market, and thorough research and understanding are crucial before entering this domain.
How can one authenticate the authenticity of an expensive bourbon?
Authenticating an expensive bourbon can be challenging, as counterfeit bottles exist in the market. Consulting experts, purchasing from reputable sources, verifying provenance, and examining packaging, labels, and bottle engravings can help in determining authenticity.
How can I learn more about bourbons and their different characteristics?
To learn more about bourbons and their characteristics, you can read books dedicated to whiskey, join tasting events or whiskey clubs, follow reputable whiskey blogs and online communities, and engage in tastings to explore different flavors and profiles.