Best Bourbon for Old Fashioned Drinks: Our Favorite Choices

The Old Fashioned, an iconic cocktail known for its timeless appeal and sophistication, has captured the hearts of cocktail enthusiasts for generations. The secret to an exceptional Old Fashioned lies not just in the method of preparation but in the quality of the bourbon used. As we explore the best bourbon for Old Fashioned drinks, it’s essential to understand why bourbon is the perfect choice for this classic cocktail and which specific brands stand out for their flavor profiles and overall excellence.

Why Bourbon?

Before diving into our list of favorites, let’s briefly discuss why bourbon is the ideal base for an Old Fashioned. Bourbon, with its rich, sweet, and oaky characteristics, complements the simplicity of the Old Fashioned—a cocktail made primarily of sugar, bitters, and a citrus twist. The natural sweetness and complexity of bourbon enhance the flavors of the drink, creating a harmonious balance.

For an Old Fashioned, bourbon should ideally be well-balanced, offering a blend of sweetness, spice, and a hint of smokiness. It should be robust enough to stand up to the sugar and bitters while also being smooth enough to drink neat. With that in mind, let’s explore some of the best bourbons to consider for your next Old Fashioned.

Top Choices for the Best Bourbon for Old Fashioned

1. Buffalo Trace Bourbon

Buffalo Trace is a staple for many bourbon enthusiasts, and for good reason. Its rich, well-rounded flavor profile makes it a top choice for Old Fashioneds. The bourbon features notes of vanilla, caramel, and a subtle hint of spice, which meld perfectly with the bitters and sugar in the cocktail. With an approachable price point and consistent quality, Buffalo Trace is an excellent choice for both novices and seasoned bourbon drinkers alike.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Vanilla, caramel, and oak
• Palate: Creamy vanilla, toffee, and a touch of spice
• Finish: Smooth and slightly warm with a hint of oak

2. Evan Williams Black Label

Evan Williams Black Label is another fantastic bourbon that delivers exceptional value for its price. It’s a no-frills bourbon with a straightforward flavor profile, making it ideal for an Old Fashioned. The bourbon’s sweet and spicy notes integrate seamlessly with the classic cocktail ingredients, providing a balanced and enjoyable drink.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Caramel, vanilla, and a hint of smoke
• Palate: Rich caramel, vanilla, and a touch of pepper
• Finish: Medium length with lingering sweetness

3. Woodford Reserve

Woodford Reserve is a premium bourbon known for its complex and rich flavors. It’s a favorite among Old Fashioned aficionados for its ability to impart a sophisticated depth to the cocktail. With its notes of dried fruit, nuts, and a hint of spice, Woodford Reserve elevates the Old Fashioned to a new level of elegance.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Dried fruit, vanilla, and toasted oak
• Palate: Rich caramel, nuts, and spices
• Finish: Smooth and warm with a touch of oak

4. Bulleit Bourbon

Bulleit Bourbon is renowned for its high rye content, which gives it a distinctive spicy kick that pairs exceptionally well with the bitters in an Old Fashioned. The bourbon’s bold flavor profile stands out, making it a great choice if you prefer a more robust and spicy Old Fashioned.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Spicy rye, vanilla, and a hint of cherry
• Palate: Bold rye spice, vanilla, and oak
• Finish: Long and spicy with a hint of caramel

5. Four Roses Single Barrel

Four Roses Single Barrel is a premium option that delivers a higher proof and a more complex flavor profile. Its rich and layered notes of fruit, spice, and oak make it a standout choice for an Old Fashioned. The added complexity can enhance the drink, providing a more nuanced experience.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Rich fruit, spice, and a hint of honey
• Palate: Spicy fruit, vanilla, and oak
• Finish: Long and warming with a hint of sweetness

6. Maker’s Mark

Maker’s Mark is known for its smooth and sweet flavor profile, thanks to its use of red winter wheat instead of rye. This bourbon’s mellow sweetness and hint of spice make it an excellent choice for a classic Old Fashioned, providing a smooth and approachable drinking experience.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Sweet vanilla, caramel, and a hint of spice
• Palate: Soft caramel, vanilla, and a touch of spice
• Finish: Smooth and sweet with a hint of oak

7. Knob Creek 9 Year Old

For those who appreciate a bit more age on their bourbon, Knob Creek 9 Year Old offers a robust and rich flavor profile. Its deep caramel and vanilla notes, combined with a slight smokiness, make it an excellent choice for creating a more intense and flavorful Old Fashioned.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Rich caramel, vanilla, and a hint of smoke
• Palate: Deep caramel, vanilla, and oak with a touch of spice
• Finish: Long and warm with a hint of smokiness

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best bourbon for Old Fashioned drinks ultimately comes down to personal preference. Whether you prefer a sweeter, smoother bourbon or one with a bold, spicy kick, the right bourbon can elevate your Old Fashioned to new heights. Each of the bourbons listed above offers its unique characteristics, making them excellent choices for crafting the perfect Old Fashioned.

When selecting a bourbon for your Old Fashioned, consider what flavor profile you enjoy most and how you want those flavors to interact with the bitters and sugar. Whether you opt for a classic choice like Buffalo Trace or a more complex option like Four Roses Single Barrel, you’re sure to craft a memorable Old Fashioned that showcases the best of what bourbon has to offer.

So, the next time you’re ready to enjoy a classic cocktail, reach for one of these top bourbons and savor the timeless elegance of a perfectly crafted Old Fashioned. Cheers!