Step 1: Decide Your Budget, but Don’t Stress About It
First thing’s first: How much do you want to spend? The beauty of bourbon is that there’s something amazing at almost every price point. But don’t fall into the trap of thinking you need to spend big money to get a respectable collection.
Here’s a simple guide to keep things in perspective:
- Starting Small ($100-$150): Want to dip your toes in the water? Grab 3 to 4 solid bottles, each around $30-$40. You’ll be surprised at the quality you can get at this range.
- Mid-Tier ($200-$500): Got a bit more room to play? Mix affordable favorites with a couple of higher-end bottles, and now you’re cooking with gas.
- Going Big ($500+): Ready to go all-in? Here’s where you can get your hands on some rarer, limited editions. The kind of bottles you save for special occasions.
Remember: You’re building this collection for you, so spend what makes sense for your lifestyle. You can always add more bottles over time—this is a marathon, not a sprint.
Step 2: Start with the Must-Haves
No matter your budget, there are a few bourbons that every collection should start with. Think of them as your foundation—the bottles that are versatile enough to sip neat, mix in a cocktail, or impress a guest.
If You’re Budget-Conscious (Under $50):
- Buffalo Trace: A classic bourbon that’s smooth, balanced, and perfect for sipping after a long day.
- Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond: High-proof, bold flavors, and all for under $30. Talk about value!
- Wild Turkey 101: A little spice, a lot of flavor. It’s a great bottle for someone who likes their bourbon with a bit of kick.
- Four Roses Small Batch: This one offers a nice blend of fruit and spice, perfect for sipping or cocktails.
If You’re Ready to Level Up ($50-$100):
- Woodford Reserve: This is where things get interesting. Rich, flavorful, and perfect for impressing friends.
- Old Forester 1920: High-proof, bold, and full of character. You’ll keep coming back to this one.
- Elijah Craig Barrel Proof: Love cask-strength bourbon? This one’s going to blow you away.
If You Want to Treat Yourself (Above $100):
- Blanton’s Single Barrel: The bottle alone makes it a showpiece, but the taste? Even better.
- Stagg Jr.: High-proof, complex, and unforgettable. This is for those who love a strong, bold bourbon.
- Pappy Van Winkle 15-Year: The Holy Grail. It’s tough to find, but if you do, you’ll be the envy of every bourbon lover you know.
Step 3: Balance Your Collection with Everyday Sippers and Special Occasion Bottles
Let’s get real for a second: You don’t need to turn every bourbon into a special event. Your collection should have a mix of bottles you can drink on any random Tuesday and a few that you save for a celebration.
- Everyday Sippers: These are the bottles you grab when you want a casual pour after dinner. They’re affordable, easy to find, and always reliable. Think Buffalo Trace, Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond, or Maker’s Mark.
- Special Occasion Bottles: These are the ones that feel like a reward. Maybe you open one when you get a promotion or celebrate a milestone. Blanton’s or Old Forester 1920 are great examples. These bottles don’t need to be insanely expensive—they just need to feel a little more special.
Mixing it up this way keeps your collection versatile and fun. You’ll have something for every occasion without feeling like you’re “wasting” your good stuff.
Step 4: Hunt for Rare or Allocated Bourbons (If You’re Feeling Adventurous)
Let’s say you’re a little deeper into the bourbon game now, and you’re curious about those rare bottles people rave about. You don’t need to go crazy, but adding a few rare or allocated bourbons can really elevate your collection. The thrill of the hunt is half the fun!
Here are a few ways to track down those elusive bottles:
- Make Friends with Your Local Liquor Store: If you build a relationship with the owner, they might give you the inside scoop on when new or rare bottles are coming in.
- Join Bourbon Groups: Online forums, Facebook groups, or bourbon clubs are gold mines for tips, bottle swaps, or tracking down those hard-to-find bottles.
- Hit Up Bourbon Events: Whiskey tastings, festivals, and pop-up events are great places to discover new bottles and connect with other bourbon lovers. Plus, they’re just a good time!
Even if you’re just starting out, keep an eye out for those unique bottles that might one day become the crown jewels of your collection.
Step 5: Store Your Bourbon Properly (This Part Is Easy)
You’ve started your collection—congrats! Now, let’s make sure your bottles stay in perfect shape. Bourbon doesn’t spoil, but you still want to store it correctly to keep it tasting great.
- Keep Them Upright: Unlike wine, bourbon should always be stored standing up. You don’t want the cork sitting in the liquid—it can deteriorate over time.
- Avoid Sunlight: Direct light can mess with the flavor. Keep your bottles in a cool, dark spot, like a cabinet or a bar shelf.
- Stable Temperatures Are Key: Don’t let your bourbon live in extreme heat or cold. A consistent room temperature (around 60-70°F) is your best bet.
This is all simple stuff, but it’ll keep your bourbon tasting its best for years to come.
Step 6: Keep It Fun—Try New Bottles and Explore
Here’s the secret to bourbon collecting: It’s not about how big your collection is or how fancy the bottles are—it’s about the journey. Every time you try a new bottle, you’ll discover something new about what you like.
Don’t get caught up in trends or what’s “hot” right now. Trust your own taste buds. Branch out, try different bourbons, and enjoy the process. That’s what it’s all about!
Final Thoughts: Build Your Bourbon Collection Your Way
Starting a bourbon collection doesn’t need to be stressful or expensive. Whether you’re working with $100 or $1,000, the key is to build a collection that makes you excited. Mix in a few everyday sippers with some special occasion bottles, and if you’re feeling adventurous, go after some rare finds.
In the end, the best bourbon collection is one that reflects your personal tastes and experiences. So, what are you waiting for? Start building your collection one bottle at a time—and enjoy every sip along the way.
🥃 Cheers!
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