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18 Most Expensive Bourbons in the World

Indulge in the opulent realm of spirits as we delve into the world of the most expensive bourbons. This article uncovers the exquisite craftsmanship, storied histories, and unparalleled flavors that define these remarkable bottles. 

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Glass of whiskey with ice cubes next to wooden barrel.

From rare small-batch releases to meticulously aged treasures, we’ll explore the artistry that transforms simple grains into liquid gold. Join us on a journey through heritage-distilled elixirs that command astonishing price tags, where each sip encapsulates not only the essence of fine bourbon but also the allure of luxury and exclusivity. Discover the embodiment of refined taste and explore the allure of these top-tier, limited-edition bourbons.

Willett Family Estate Bottled Single-Barrel 21 Year Old Straight Bourbon

Willett Family Estate Bottled Single-Barrel 21 Year Old Straight Bourbon
Source: wine-searcher.com

Elevating the essence of exclusivity, the Willett Family Estate Bottled Single-Barrel 21 Year Old Straight Bourbon stands as a pinnacle in the realm of opulent bourbons. With a storied heritage and an exquisite aging process, each sip embodies the essence of time and craftsmanship. This rare gem epitomizes the allure of the most expensive bourbons, offering a taste of history and luxury that connoisseurs cherish. This expensive bourbon goes for over $8000 per bottle.


A.H. Hirsch Finest Reserve 20 Year Old Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Kentucky, USA

A.H. Hirsch Finest Reserve 20 Year Old Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Kentucky, USA
Source: wine-searcher.com

A.H. Hirsch Finest Reserve 20 Year Old Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a symphony of flavors that captivates the senses. Its rich, velvety texture carries notes of caramel, dark chocolate, and toasted oak, mingling harmoniously with hints of dried fruit and a subtle spiciness. Best savored neat or with a single ice cube, this bourbon unfolds its complexity slowly, inviting contemplation. The depth of character and smoothness of the finish make it an exceptional choice for those seeking an unparalleled sipping experience, worthy of its prestigious reputation. This bourbon costs over $5000 but goes for as much as $15,000 at some auctions!


Redemption 36 Year Old

Redemption 36 Year Old
Source: redemptionwhiskey.com

In the realm of the most expensive bourbons, Redemption 36 Year Old stands as a masterpiece of patience and precision. This aged elixir seamlessly weaves together the essence of charred oak, imparting deep vanilla and spice notes, with a subtle undercurrent of honeyed sweetness from the corn. The result is a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate, a testament to the art of blending. Elevate your taste for the extraordinary, indulge in the sublime experience of Redemption 36 Year Old, and embark on a journey through unparalleled luxury and taste. This rare bourbon is sold out from Redemption, and recently sold for over $18,000 at auction!


Pappy Van Winkle 23 Year Old 

Pappy Van Winkle 23 Year Old 
Source: oldripvanwinkle.com

Originating in Kentucky, Pappy Van Winkle 23 Year Old Bourbon embodies the essence of tradition and time. A symphony of flavors unfolds as rich caramel, dark chocolate, and toasted oak combine seamlessly, enriched by the charred barrels. With roots deeply entwined in craftsmanship, its scarcity and exceptional aging process have elevated it to legendary status. Its journey from modest beginnings to a sought-after treasure encapsulates the allure of the most expensive bourbons, making it an icon among connoisseurs worldwide. This bourbon originally sold for $299.99 MSRP, but resale prices are in the thousands!

See also  Orange Bourbon Smash

Double Eagle Very Rare 20 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Double Eagle Very Rare 20 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Source: buffalotracedistillery.com

Crafted with exquisite precision, the Double Eagle Very Rare 20 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon exudes complexity in simplicity. Its refined character, a result of two decades of aging, offers a harmonious blend of caramel and vanilla notes. Surprisingly approachable, it caters to both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to the bourbon world. This bourbon invites contemplation, making it an exceptional choice for those seeking an elegant sipping experience. This expensive bottle of bourbon sells for over $10,000 and as much as $15K!


Buffalo Trace O.F.C. Old Fashioned Copper 1995 Bourbon Whiskey 

Buffalo Trace O.F.C. Old Fashioned Copper 1995 Bourbon Whiskey 
Source: wine-searcher.com

Indulge in the allure of Buffalo Trace O.F.C. Old Fashioned Copper 1995 Bourbon Whiskey, a liquid narrative of opulence. Rich caramel envelops the palate, intertwining with hints of dark chocolate, creating a sumptuous symphony. The subtle dance of oak and vanilla adds depth, while the finish, a lingering caress of spices, leaves an unforgettable mark. Buffalo Trace O.F.C. Old Fashioned Copper 1995 Bourbon Whiskey is more than a drink; it’s a voyage through flavors and time, an embodiment of the artistry of the ages. This expensive Buffalo Trace bourbon sells for around $5000 today.


Michter’s 25 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Michter's 25 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Source: michters.com

Enter the realm of utmost extravagance with Michter’s 25 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon. It’s a tapestry of flavors where dark toffee and velvety caramel intertwine, followed by a symphony of dried fruits and rich spices. The culmination of patient aging and impeccable craftsmanship, this bourbon has graced the palates of connoisseurs and collectors alike. Perfect for the most exquisite celebrations, Michter’s 25-Year Old is the ultimate testament to the art of bourbon-making, embodying elegance with every sip. This limited run of bourbon originally sold for $1000, but with only 348 bottles to go around the resale price soars above $8000.


John E. Fitzgerald Very Special Reserve 20 Year Old

John E. Fitzgerald Very Special Reserve 20 Year Old
Source: wine-searcher.com

Journey into the world of opulent bourbons with John E. Fitzgerald Very Special Reserve 20 Year Old. Its velvety smoothness carries a melange of flavors, from honeyed vanilla and toasted oak to whispers of spice. An embodiment of rarity and tradition, this bourbon evokes the essence of time itself. Elevate your appreciation for fine spirits and savor a taste of history with every refined sip of John E. Fitzgerald Very Special Reserve. This high price bourbon goes for around $3000.


Old Rip Van Winkle 25 Year Old

Old Rip Van Winkle 25 Year Old
Source: wine-searcher.com

Old Rip Van Winkle 25 Year Old marries expertly aged bourbon with refined flavors. Caramel notes intertwine with hints of dark chocolate, while oak imparts depth, creating a symphony of taste. Whether a fireside toast or a cherished gathering, this bourbon lends an air of sophistication, enhancing the ambiance of any special occasion. Raise a glass of Old Rip Van Winkle 25 Year Old to celebrate life’s extraordinary moments. Only 710 bottles of Old Rip Van Winkle 25 Year were created, and today the bottle is priced at over $40,000 in some places!

See also  Bourbon Milk Punch

The Last Drop 1980 Buffalo Trace Bourbon Whiskey

The Last Drop 1980 Buffalo Trace Bourbon Whiskey
Source: lastdropdistillers.com

The Last Drop 1980 Buffalo Trace Bourbon Whiskey is an exceptional blend, showcasing the unique character of aged corn, malted barley, rye, and water. What sets it apart from other bourbons is the meticulous selection and aging process, resulting in a one-of-a-kind flavor profile. Served at the perfect sipping temperature, The Last Drop 1980 Buffalo Trace Bourbon Whiskey reveals its intricate flavors layer by layer, leaving a satisfying warmth and a lingering sense of indulgence. Delve into a world of elegance and taste, where every sip is a journey into unparalleled luxury. This bottle was originally priced at $4600, but resale prices are over $10,000.


Colonel E.H. Taylor Old Fashioned Sour Mash

Colonel E.H. Taylor Old Fashioned Sour Mash
Source: buffalotracedistillery.com

Colonel E.H. Taylor Old Fashioned Sour Mash presents a symphony of flavors, where the zesty citrus notes harmonize with the warmth of oak and a hint of spice. Best enjoyed neat or on the rocks, it offers a balanced complexity that invites contemplation. This bourbon is admired for its timeless taste that captures both tradition and innovation, making it a classic choice for aficionados seeking an authentic yet refined drinking experience. This expensive bourbon sells for over $20,000 today!


Parker’s Heritage Collection 2nd Edition 27-Year Bourbon

Parker's Heritage Collection 2nd Edition 27 Year Bourbon
Source: canawineco.com

Step into the realm of utmost rarity with Parker’s Heritage Collection 2nd Edition 27 Year Bourbon. Aged to perfection, this exquisite blend exudes flavors of rich caramel, dark fruit, and a whisper of spice. With its limited availability and unparalleled aging process, it encapsulates the essence of the most sought-after bourbons, offering a taste of luxury and history that only time can impart. This bourbon originally sold for $1495, but resale prices are over $5000.


Elmer T. Lee ‘90th Birthday Edition’ Single Barrel Sour Mash Bourbon

Elmer T. Lee ‘90th Birthday Edition’ Single Barrel Sour Mash Bourbon
Source: frootbat.com

Celebrate opulence with the Elmer T. Lee ’90th Birthday Edition’ Single Barrel Sour Mash Bourbon. Expertly crafted, it melds notes of honey and vanilla with a subtle spice, a testament to the delicate balance of its ingredients. Embrace the legacy of this limited-edition gem, where every sip resonates with history and craftsmanship. Raise a glass to excellence with Elmer T. Lee ’90th Birthday Edition’ Single Barrel Sour Mash Bourbon. This bourbon sells for over $8000, and in some places over $10,000!

See also  Bourbon Peach Old-Fashioned

W. L. Weller 19 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey 

W. L. Weller 19 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey 
Source: folsomwinespirits.com

W. L. Weller 19 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey offers a symphony of flavors where caramel and vanilla dance on the palate, complemented by a touch of toasted oak. As a sought-after gem, its popularity stems from its exceptional aging process and distinguished heritage, capturing the essence of time in every sip. The rarity of its age and the unparalleled taste it delivers contribute to its elevated price, making it a treasure among connoisseurs. This bourbon sells for around $10,000 today.


Kentucky Owl Bourbon Batch 1

Kentucky Owl Bourbon Batch 1
Source: wine-searcher.com

Kentucky Owl Bourbon Batch 1 embodies the epitome of small-batch perfection, standing as a testament to the art of blending. Its unique character emerges from a meticulous combination of carefully selected barrels, resulting in a symphony of flavors. This offering reflects the essence of the most expensive bourbons, where craftsmanship, scarcity, and exceptional taste converge in each bottle, inviting enthusiasts to partake in a journey of luxury and sophistication. This bottle sells for $500 and up.


Heaven Hill 17 Year Old Barrel Proof

Heaven Hill 17 Year Old Barrel Proof
Source: wine-searcher.com

Unveil the allure of Heaven Hill 17 Year Old Barrel Proof, a bourbon masterpiece. Caramel and dark fruit intertwine, enriched by toasted oak and a subtle spiciness, creating a sumptuous tapestry of flavors. Crafted in limited batches, this bourbon embodies patience and precision after being aged for 17 years. A symphony of flavors that lingers, it offers a glimpse into the art of bourbon-making, leaving an indelible mark on connoisseurs who seek both refinement and adventure. A bottle of this bourbon costs over $1500.


Martin Mills 24 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon 

Martin Mills 24 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon 
Source: elcerritoliquor.com

Introducing Martin Mills 24 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon, an embodiment of elegance and time-honored flavors. Rich notes of toffee and dark chocolate dance with oak undertones, creating a symphony of indulgence that lingers. Perfect for celebrating cherished moments, Martin Mills 24 Year Old lends an air of sophistication to any occasion. Elevate your spirits with this aged treasure, a testament to theart of bourbon-making that promises to enhance the essence of life’s most memorable experiences. This bourbon is priced around $8000.


William Larue Weller Kentucky Straight Bourbon

William Larue Weller Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Source: buffalotracedistillery.com

Experience the unparalleled taste of William Larue Weller Kentucky Straight Bourbon. With rich flavors that intertwine seamlessly, it embodies the essence of sophistication and luxury. Its limited availability, coupled with its exceptional quality, has propelled it to the ranks of the most expensive bourbons, making it a treasure cherished by aficionados seeking the pinnacle of taste and exclusivity. Best enjoyed during moments of celebration and reflection, this bourbon elevates occasions into cherished memories, adding a touch of luxury to each sip. This expensive bourbon costs around $2000.


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Paul Kushner

Written by Paul Kushner

Founder and CEO of MyBartender. Graduated from Penn State University. He always had a deep interest in the restaurant and bar industry. His restaurant experience began in 1997 at the age of 14 as a bus boy. By the time he turned 17 he was serving tables, and by 19 he was bartending/bar managing 6-7 nights a week.

In 2012, after a decade and a half of learning all facets of the industry, Paul opened his first restaurant/bar. In 2015, a second location followed, the latter being featured on The Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.

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