Welcome to the heart of Whiskey.com — our Whiskey Reviews section. Here, you’ll find honest tasting notes, community ratings, and expert insights on some of the world’s most celebrated (and underrated) bottles. Whether you’re hunting for your next daily sipper or a special bottle to mark an occasion, our reviews are designed to help you make the right choice.
Featured Reviews:
What You’ll Find on This Page:
Rating: 4.5 / 5
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Buffalo Trace is often praised as one of the best value bourbons on the market—and for good reason. On the nose, it’s rich with notes of vanilla, caramel, and just a hint of spice. The palate follows with brown sugar, a bit of oak, and a smooth, warming finish that makes it approachable for both new bourbon drinkers and seasoned enthusiasts.
At around 90 proof, it has enough strength to stand up in cocktails but is still smooth enough to sip neat or with a cube. The price point (when it’s not being gouged) makes it a solid daily sipper.
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Rating: 4.2 / 5
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Woodford Reserve is a staple of many bourbon shelves and with good reason. It leans more into a full-bodied, spicy profile with rich notes of dried fruit, dark chocolate, and toasted oak. There’s a layered complexity here that appeals to drinkers looking for a bit more bite and character.
At 90.4 proof, it drinks slightly hotter than some might expect, but it opens up beautifully with a splash of water. It’s also a fantastic base for an Old Fashioned or Manhattan.
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Rating: 4.4 / 5
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Old Joe by Trippy Goat is a modern take on classic American whiskey—smooth, approachable, yet full of character. On the nose, it opens with warm notes of caramel and toasted oak, balanced by a subtle spice. The palate is rich with vanilla, honey, and a gentle peppery edge that makes it versatile for sipping or mixing. The finish lingers with hints of dried fruit and a touch of smoke.
At 90 proof, Old Joe strikes a sweet spot: bold enough to shine in cocktails like the Old Fashioned, but smooth enough to sip neat without overwhelming the palate. It’s quickly becoming a bartender favorite and a hidden gem for enthusiasts looking for something new.
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Rating: 4.0 / 5
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Maker’s Mark is instantly recognizable with its red wax seal, and it delivers a soft, approachable bourbon profile. On the nose, you’ll find sweet notes of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of citrus. The palate leans creamy and mellow with flavors of toffee and gentle spice. The finish is clean and smooth, making it a great choice for beginners.
At 90 proof, it’s highly approachable and shines in classic cocktails like the Whiskey Sour. While it may lack the complexity of some higher-end bourbons, its consistency and accessibility keep it a staple worldwide.
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Rating: 4.3 / 5
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Elijah Craig Small Batch brings a satisfying balance of sweet and spicy. On the nose, expect toasted oak, vanilla, and a touch of baking spice. The palate is full-bodied with caramel, nutmeg, and charred oak, finishing with a warm and slightly peppery kick.
At 94 proof, it carries a bit more punch than standard entry-level bourbons, which makes it a great sipper for enthusiasts while still versatile in cocktails. Its price-to-quality ratio makes it one of the most dependable bottles on the market.
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Rating: 4.1 / 5
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Jameson is the quintessential Irish whiskey—smooth, approachable, and universally drinkable. The nose offers floral notes, light citrus, and hints of vanilla. On the palate, it’s soft with flavors of honey, malt, and a gentle touch of spice. The finish is clean and refreshing.
At 80 proof, Jameson is easy-going, making it a favorite for cocktails like the Irish Coffee or Whiskey Ginger. It may not carry the depth of premium single malts, but it’s a reliable bottle for both casual sipping and mixing.
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