The Best Whiskey for 2025: Editor’s Choice

​​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!

Blanton’s is the gold standard for premium single-barrel Kentucky Straight Whiskey. Aged to perfection at Buffalo Trace Distillery, it offers a gorgeous deep amber color and a rich aroma of vanilla, orange peel, and warm spices.

At $139.99 for a 750ml bottle, it’s the ultimate choice if you’re looking for a full-bodied bourbon that’s perfect for sipping.

Colonel E.H. Taylor’s Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is the kind of bourbon that’s crafted with care and attention. Every bottle is hand-made and blended to perfection at the Buffalo Trace Distilling facility. 

The barrels are expertly selected and combined to create a flavor profile that's not just complex, but also super easy to enjoy. This small batch bourbon has premium vibes written all over it–perfect for those moments when you want something truly special in your glass.

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!

This bourbon carries the legacy of a once-lost pre-prohibition brand, now revived with meticulous craftsmanship. Aged and blended in small batches, it boasts a deep amber hue and a rich aroma of caramel and vanilla. 

At $107.99 for a 750ml bottle, it’s a bold and complex choice for bourbon enthusiasts seeking history in every sip.

Sazerac Straight Rye Whiskey is a true classic. Born at the legendary Buffalo Trace Distillery, it’s the perfect rye for anyone who loves history and a killer cocktail. While it originally replaced Cognac in the classic Sazerac cocktail, this whiskey stands strong on its own. 

With a crisp, clean taste and a bold character, it’s earned rave reviews–including a 94.5 rating from Jim Murray and gold medals in LA and San Francisco. This is a top-tier rye whiskey you won’t want to miss.

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.

In 2016, Wild Turkey Master Distiller Eddie Russell teamed up with Matthew McConaughey to create a bourbon celebrating their shared love of whiskey. The Longbranch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey blends smoky Texan mesquite with classic Kentucky craftsmanship, delivering sweet, bold, and balanced flavors. 

Its flavor profile makes it a fantastic choice for Manhattans, adding depth and a subtle smokiness that takes the cocktail to the next level while staying easy to enjoy on its own.