Paul Kushner
Whiskey is a popular spirit that has been around for centuries, with its origins dating back to the Middle Ages. It’s a versatile drink that can be enjoyed straight, on the rocks, or mixed in a cocktail. However, for those who are new to whiskey, it can be intimidating to know where to start. There are so many different types, brands, and flavors to choose from, and it can be overwhelming to know which one to try first.
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Luckily, there are some great options out there for whiskey beginners. Bartenders and whiskey enthusiasts alike have recommended certain brands and types of whiskey that are perfect for those who are just starting out. Whether you prefer bourbon, rye, or scotch, there’s a whiskey out there that will suit your taste buds. So, don’t be afraid to give whiskey a try – with a little bit of guidance, you might just find your new favorite drink.
Four Roses Bourbon
Four Roses Bourbon has a fruity scent with floral essences and notes of spice and honey. Undertones of fresh fruit like pears and apples sell the fruity aroma. With that delicious scent in mind, the taste is crisp, soft, and smooth, making it agreeable for new whiskey drinkers. Four Roses Bourbon in Kentucky makes all of its own bourbon and provides tours of its facilities.
Buffalo Trace
This bourbon is bottled in a rustic vessel that hearkens back to a time buffalo freely roamed the country, much like its name implies. Crafted on a trail that buffalo once roamed, this bourbon is rich and complex. The tasting notes are vanilla, toffee, and candied fruits. With a smooth finish, this bourbon is a bit more sophisticated than Four Roses.
Suntory Toki
Suntory Toki (established 1923) is a fresh and unique whiskey from Japan for beginners and those more experienced tasters. The liquor is a crisp, clear gold with a refreshing scent of basil, green apple, and honey. Flavorful fruity notes of grapefruit, green grapes, peppermint, and thyme make this the brightest whiskey on the list.
Tullamore DEW
If you’re looking for a very intense whiskey experience, you can’t go wrong with Tullamore DEW. This Irish whiskey hits all the right spots as it combines three different whiskeys. Grain, malt, and pot combine to give you the perfect blend of sweet, fruity, and spicey to tease your palate.
Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey
Jack Daniel’s is known worldwide for their Tennessee whiskey, and this honey-blend is just another success for them. The blend goes down perfectly smooth with a naturally sweet flavor from the addition of real honey. This is an excellent introductory bottle when trying whiskey because it mellows some of the burn you might feel from less forgiving varieties.
Jameson Irish Whiskey
Is Irish whiskey a good entry to the spirit and which one? The answer is naturally Jameson. Triple-distilled and aged for four years in oak casts, this spirit is sure to entice and enthrall your senses. A lovely balance of spicy, nutty, and vanilla, the hints of sherry, and a smooth finish bring this all together.
Bulleit Bourbon
Significantly bolder than the others on this list, Bulleit Bourbon has an exceptionally high rye content. The finish is still smooth like the others, but the ending notes are pretty spicy with a light toffee flavor. It’s also less fruity than the others, with the dominant flavors being maple, oak, and nutmeg.
