I will agree with all of TheIronMonkey’s suggestions. I will also add any batch of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof you come across. Blanton’s is wildly popular, and worth it at $60.00 retail, but not worth chasing at secondary prices.The title pretty much says it all...
I have been playing with Whiskeys and Bourbons for a while now (yes, I know all bourbons are whiskeys) and I have come to the conclusion that I really like the sweetness corn brings to the table. I have also concluded I really don't like peaty whiskeys.
I am looking for 2 things I am hoping some of you can help with.
1. I am retiring at the end of this year and would like to buy 1 exceptional bottle of Bourbon for that event. Price is not much of a factor.
2. I am also looking excellent Bourbons to stock for regular consumption and price plays no role as I know some bourbons are reasonably priced but are exceptionally fine. I would like to narrow down the field by using your experiences so I don't end up with a bunch of mistakes in the cabinet.
Help a brother out with some suggestions?
For an exceptional bottle, George T. Stagg or William Larue Weller from the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection would be what I would seek.
For everyday great bottles that can be easily found, I would go with Wild Turkey Rare Breed, Old Forester 1920 or 1910, and Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Barrel Proof ( although JDSBBP is starting to become hard to come by also).
You mentioned that you liked the sweetness of the corn. Wheated mashbills like Weller and Willet have a soft, sweet palate you may enjoy also. Good luck and let us know what you decide on. Cheers!