The one where I tell you which flavored bourbons and whiskeys are, in my opinion, worth your time and money.
There comes a time in your life when you decide to get your act together and start behaving like the adult you are. This decision can manifest itself in a number of different ways. Some people decide to cultivate the perfectly manicured lawn. Some people decide to become parents. Me? I decided to start drinking bourbon. Since making that decision, I've had the pleasure of consuming a lot of it. I mean, not to the point where I need to attend meetings or anything, but enough to know what I like and what I don't like.
I'm generally a traditionalist, meaning that I prefer my bourbon to be straight and neat. I'm a Bulleit girl, in case you were wondering. But over the past couple of years, as they've gained in popularity, distilleries have started to add flavors to their spirits. Some are really, really good. Some are just okay. And some should be avoided at all cost. So I thought I'd take a few minutes to recommend a couple of my favorites in case you had also been thinking about becoming a bourbon or whiskey drinker but were unsure of where to start.
BSB by Heritage Distilling Co.
This is hands-down my absolute favorite flavored bourbon. As its name suggests, it features strong notes of cinnamon and brown sugar. I suppose you could mix this with something, but I find there's no need. It's smooth enough to stand on its own. And while not keto-friendly, with 6g of carbs per serving — and all of them from sugar — I will still make room in my life and diet for this classic whiskey.
Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey
OK, so TECHNICALLY this isn't a bourbon. And if I'm being honest, it's not technically even a whiskey. In order to be classified as a real whiskey, the spirit has to be made with the right grains, entered into an oak barrel for an unspecified period of aging time, and then bottled at a minimum of 40% abv (alcohol by volume). This clocks in at 35% (70 proof), which really puts it in the flavored liquor category. But that's only if you're getting technical about things. And we ain't got no stinking time for technical things. What we do have time for is a nice, smooth pour that smells and tastes good. I've tried many of the peanut butter whiskeys on the market now, but this is my favorite. It's not overly sweet, not thick and syrupy, and it provides a slight burn as its going down, making it a winner in my book. People I know have mixed it with various things, but I think it's perfect when served neat.
Howler Head Kentucky Straight Banana Bourbon Whiskey
This is actually a blend of various Straight Kentucky Bourbon Whiskeys. A Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a straight whiskey made in Kentucky from a mash of at least 51% corn grain. It also has to have been aged in new charred oak barrels for a minimum of two years. This one has an all-natural banana flavor with a hint of brown sugar added to it. As I've mentioned, I'm not a big mixer, so I can tell you from personal experience that this goes down well neat, but I could also see it working well as a base for a cocktail drink. It's also the first-ever “Flavored Whiskey Partner” of the UFC. So, yeah.
Misunderstood Ginger Spiced Whiskey
This whiskey is a blend of bourbon and American whiskey, aged in American oak barrels. Clocking in at 80 proof, it's a legit whiskey. As the name implies, it's flavored with ginger root and definitely has a strong ginger taste and also packs some spicy ginger heat. If that's not your thing, this one probably isn't going to be for you. I love ginger and I'll be honest with you — this is a little much even for me. I've had my bottle for months and it's not even half gone. This might be something that I try using as a mixer base. So, yeah. It's not bad. Just maybe ... I don't know ... misunderstood?
Bourbon Smash by Southern Tier Brewing Company
More and more brewing companies are throwing their hat into the distilling game. Southern Tier is at the top of their game with their beers, so it's not surprising that their craft cocktail game is also on point. Made with their own award-winning Straight Bourbon, some lemon, a little ginger, and a touch of mint, Bourbon Smash is a twist on the traditional mint julep. I drink mine straight from the can but you can also serve it over ice. Warning: it's got a 10% abv, which sounds innocent enough — especially if you're used to drinking real whiskey — but it packs a punch. But it's absolutely delicious and I cannot recommend it enough.
OK, so I think that's enough to get your flavored whiskey journey started. Which one are you going to try first? Do you have a favorite that's not on my list? Maybe I should try it! Shoot me a message or leave a comment below. Cheers, and peace out until next time.
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