Whiskey You Can ONLY Buy in Kentucky

Discovering Kentucky's Exclusive Bourbons: A Hidden Gem for Whiskey Enthusiasts

When it comes to bourbon hunting, Kentucky is often the first destination that comes to mind. However, contrary to popular belief, it might not be the best place to hunt for rare and allocated bourbons. Despite this, Kentucky offers unique whiskies that are either easier to find locally or exclusively available within the state. If you're planning a bourbon pilgrimage to Kentucky, here's a guide to some whiskies that are worth seeking out.

Categories of Kentucky Bourbons

Before diving into the specific whiskies, it's essential to understand the three main categories:

1. Readily Available in Kentucky, Hard to Find Elsewhere: These are bourbons you can find relatively easily in Kentucky but might struggle to locate in other states.
2. Kentucky-Only by Design: These bourbons are specifically distributed only in Kentucky.
3. Distillery-Only Releases: These are exclusive releases available only at the distilleries themselves.

Bourbons Readily Available in Kentucky

1. Early Times Bottled in Bond: Priced at $23 for a one-liter bottle, this 100-proof bourbon offers excellent value. It's a solid, well-made product that's easier to find in Kentucky than in many other places.

2. JTS Brown: Another affordable option at $18, JTS Brown is a Heaven Hill product that's well-regarded for its quality. While it has been spotted outside Kentucky occasionally, it's much more readily available in its home state.

Kentucky-Only Bourbons

1. Evan Williams Single Barrel: Known for its attractive packaging and quality, this bourbon is now sold exclusively in Kentucky. It offers great value at around $31.

2. Heaven Hill Quality House: Available for just $13 for a one-liter bottle, this bourbon used to have a six-year age statement, which was later discontinued. Despite the changes, it's still a Kentucky-exclusive gem.

3. Old Forester President's Choice: This $80 bourbon is a single-barrel product aged between 7 to 12 years. While it has limited distribution in Kentucky, it's primarily found at the distillery.

Distillery-Only Releases

1. Elijah Craig Grenade: Priced at $60, this 125-proof Elijah Craig bourbon comes in a distinctive 375ml bottle, making it a cute collectible for enthusiasts.

2. Old Forester 117 Series: These half-bottles cost around $60 and are often finished in unique casks, such as Speyside Scotch casks, providing an interesting twist on the classic bourbon flavor.

3. Michter's Fort Nelson Bottle Your Own: At $180, this bourbon offers a unique experience where you can fill your bottle at the distillery. The current release is rumored to be a higher-aged 1792 bourbon.

4. William Heaven Hill: With prices around $250 to $275, these high-age statement bourbons are exclusive to the distillery and vary in release each year.

5. Jim Beam Urban Stillhouse Select: A more affordable distillery-only option at $46, offering a unique bottle-your-own experience at Jim Beam's Urban Stillhouse in Louisville.

6. Woodford Reserve Distillery Series: Ranging from $30 to $60, these experimental projects are only available at the Woodford distillery, offering a unique experience with each visit.

7. Evan Williams 23 Year: Priced at $350, this high-age statement bourbon is exclusively available at the Evan Williams Experience in Louisville, offering a special treat for those willing to splurge.

8. Square 6: This $90 bourbon is distilled at the micro-distillery within the Evan Williams Experience, offering a unique product that's distinct from the main brand line.

Conclusion

While hunting for allocated bourbons like Pappy Van Winkle or Blanton's in Kentucky might be a challenge, there are plenty of unique and exclusive options worth exploring. From readily available bargains to distillery-only treasures, Kentucky offers a rich selection of bourbons that cater to both casual drinkers and dedicated enthusiasts. So, next time you're in Kentucky, broaden your bourbon horizons and discover these hidden gems.