The Best New Bourbons According to Top Bartenders

With an astonishing array of over 3,000 bourbons flooding the market, whiskey enthusiasts are presented with endless options to explore. Not merely limited to craft distillers, renowned beverage companies are also launching exciting and experimental new expressions. Recently, I had the pleasure of gathering insights from several of America’s finest bartenders and beverage directors about their top picks for new bourbons.

Old Elk: A Colorado Gem

Raymond Tremblay, Beverage Director at Coje Management, was quick to highlight Colorado’s Old Elk as his top choice for the latest bourbon revelation.

“I’m currently captivated by Old Elk whiskeys. Their Wheated, High-Malt, and special Cigar Cut bourbons are remarkable choices for both sipping and mixing into cocktails. The Cigar Cut, in particular, pairs perfectly with an evening by the fire pit with friends and a good cigar.”

Old Elk stands out with its distinctive mash bills and expertly crafted finishes, guided by Master Distiller Greg Metze, ensuring that quality is always at the forefront.

Experience the unique flavors of Old Elk.

Horse Soldier: A Tribute to Heroes

Joe Arakawa, Beverage Director at Anima by EDO, endorsed Horse Soldier, a proud veteran-owned brand, spotlighting its significant role in supporting veterans.

“In my opinion, it’s been on the rise. It was made to support veterans like me and started by some of the original special forces soldiers that went into Afghanistan. First, it is delicious, affordable, and versatile. Their baseline is a great cocktail bourbon sitting at 43.5 percent, which lends well to both citrus and spirit-forward styles of cocktails without losing the bourbon.”

Milam & Greene: Texas Craft Quality

Acknowledging the offerings from Texas, bartender Alexis Mijares declared Milam & Greene as deserving of recognition.

“Their flagship triple-cask bourbon is delicious. It’s a blend of bourbons from Texas, Kentucky, and Tennessee, which they distill in both states. They are also a female-forward company, from ownership to distillation to advocacy!”

Texas craft bourbon at its finest.

Redemption’s Cognac Cask: A Unique Fusion

Head Bartender Ben Yabrow of Sip and Guzzle NYC praised Redemption’s Cognac Cask Finished Straight Bourbon.

“It is unique and has a perfect balance between fruit and spice notes that I think a lot of people enjoy.” This bourbon exemplifies a creative melding of classic bourbon with the sophistication of cognac.

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof: Tradition at Its Best

Global Cocktail Creative Bad Birdy shared his enthusiasm for the Elijah Craig Barrel Proof, a recent release from Heaven Hill, describing it as a whiskey that exemplifies tradition and excellence.

“My favorite whiskey is undoubtedly Elijah Craig Barrel Proof. This exceptional bourbon, uncut and straight from the barrel, is a true testament to what oak barrel aging can achieve.”

Indulge in the rich flavors of Elijah Craig.

Ingram River: Nature’s Touch

Director of Operations at BACKSTAGE, Graham Sutton, chose Indiana-based Ingram River, noting its unique aging process. He explained that the barrels are constantly moving along a river, imparting characteristics that make the bourbon taste older than it is.

Wilderness Trail: Innovative Techniques

Carlee Carvalko, Manager at Avanti F&B in Boulder, CO, celebrated Wilderness Trail, stating:

“They are doing revolutionary things at their distillery. With a strong background in fermentation sciences, owner Dr. Pat uses a sweet mash in his Kentucky distillery, which produces unique and consistent bourbon with a far lighter flavor profile than you’d expect from a Kentucky bourbon.”

Breaking new ground in bourbon innovation.

Frey Ranch: A Legacy of Quality

Bethany Alyssa Nardi, a bartender at Hawks Restaurant in Granite Bay, CA, spotlighted Frey Ranch as her pick for “Best New Craft Bourbon.”

“They are doing amazing things. Their 100% world-class grain is grown onsite, and as heirs to over 165 years of Nevada farming tradition, they are using the knowledge from the past while looking to the future to grow their whiskey.”

Leopold Bros.: Craft Distilling Pioneers

Summer Goff, bartender at Run For The Roses in Denver, recognized Leopold Bros. with their 8 YO Cask Strength Three Chamber, Finished Bourbon, as one of the best new expressions.

“Leopold isn’t a new brand. Todd and his team have been leading the craft distillery charge for nearly 25 years. They run a zero-waste facility, have the only malting floor in this region, utilize botanicals grown on their estate, unearth lost distilling history and techniques, and educate and source products from farmers in the state.”

Discover the pioneering spirit of Leopold Bros.

Still Austin: Local Treasure

Andy Wright from The Dead Rabbit Pub in Austin, TX, shared his fondness for Still Austin.

“Still, Austin Cask Strength is one of my favorite new craft bourbons. I appreciate the quality, the price point, and the ability to support local. Its rich and bold flavors make it ideal to sip neat or to stand out in a delicious cocktail.”

George Dickel: A Historic Brand Renewed

Finally, Allison Everitt, a bar manager and beverage consultant, highlighted George Dickel for their new 8-Year Bourbon Whisky.

“This small batch, 90-proof bottling offers great value, averaging around $30 retail and is full of flavor.”

In conclusion, these new bourbon selections represent some of the finest in craftsmanship and flavor profiles, showcasing innovation and tradition. The recommendations from America’s top bartenders offer a thrilling journey for whiskey lovers to explore. Whether sipping neat, mixing into cocktails, or enjoying by a fire, these bourbons are sure to impress. Cheers!