Best Bourbon for Beginners in 2026

Buffalo Trace is a top contender in the Kentucky Bourbon world! Owned by the Sazerac Company, it's one of the biggest bourbon producers, churning out an impressive 2.7 million gallons annually.

Buffalo Trace’s flagship, Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, is considered one of the best Kentucky Bourbons. It’s affordable, packed with flavor, and absolutely worth the price. This well-balanced bourbon offers a classic taste that’s perfect for any occasion. Sip it straight, pour it over ice, or shake it up in your favorite cocktails—it’s that versatile!

​​W.L. Weller Special Reserve, aka the Green Label, is a sweet, easy-drinking Kentucky Bourbon that brings all the classic bourbon vibes with a twist. You’ll get rich, full flavors on the palate, with a finish that lingers with floral notes. It’s perfectly balanced for sipping, whether you’re drinking alone or toasting with friends and family. It’s the kind of bourbon that makes every moment feel a little extra special!

W.L. Weller Special Reserve stands out as one of the best bourbons for sipping, and the best part? It’s super affordable for the quality it offers!

Enjoy a rich, dessert-like sip with Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a warmly spiced American Whiskey crafted from the classic blend of corn, rye, and malted barley. It’s a great bourbon for beginners who want a flavorful and approachable introduction to the world of bourbon.

Each pour delivers cozy notes of caramel, butter, and fruit cake that hug your palate with warmth. With a 1000ml bottle, there’s plenty to savor and share.

This bourbon’s got it all–amazing flavor and a killer decanter design. Aged 8–10 years and bottled at 47% ABV, it brings out a mix of vanilla, sweet corn, cinnamon, and ginger that you’ll notice from the first sniff. 

And at $51.99 for a 750ml bottle, it’s a great deal for anyone who loves well-crafted, flavorful bourbon.

If you’re a beginner and want to develop a greater appreciation for the taste and depth of whiskey, this is the bottle for you. Bottled at 90.4 proof, this whiskey is twice-barreled for an extra rich and vibrant flavor. 

It matures in separate, charred oak barrels in the oldest bourbon distillery in Kentucky. The next nine months involve maturing the mixture in new, deeply toasted and lightly charred barrels. This process transforms the taste by adding an entirely new layer of depth to the drink’s expression. 

Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Bourbon Whiskey is definitely on the more affordable side. It’s a fantastic whiskey for beginners, especially for those who want greater depth and texture in their drinks without breaking the bank completely.