If you’re reading this, then chances are you don’t wait for a national holiday to enjoy a great bourbon. However, a good excuse never hurts. In honor of National Bourbon Day we spoke with whiskey pro Mike Raymond to get his take on the subject.
Raymond oversees a whiskey list 350 deep at Houston’s Reserve 101—among the country’s leading whiskey bars for the past decade. He also just launched The Cottonmouth Club with partner Michael Neff, which has already been touted as one of the city’s top cocktail institutions. Suffice it to say the guy knows his bourbon. For this reason, we’ve asked him to offer seven boozy selections for the special day, broken down across different categories.
Mike Raymond / Photo Credit: Reserve 101
Best Everyday Bourbon –
Old Forester Signature
Everyday isn’t National Bourbon Day. But every day is a good day for bourbon. Right?
“Old Forester’s 100 proof Signature is a beautiful bourbon with enough heat on it to stand up to some ice on a hot day, while being complex enough to be enjoyed every day,” Raymond says.
Old Forester Signature / Photo Credit: Old Forester
Best Bourbon from Outside Kentucky –
Garrison Brothers Texas Straight Bourbon
It’s no secret that great bourbon is being made all across the country, from New York to Wyoming. Of course it’s also made right in Raymond’s own Lone Star State. That’s where he turns for his next pick.
“Garrison Brothers, besides being the first [bourbon] whiskey to be made legally in the state of Texas, is also the best example of Texas-made bourbon,” Raymond says. Don’t mess with it.
Garrison Brothers Texas Straight Bourbon / Photo Credit: Garrison Brothers
Best Unusual Bourbon –
Belle Meade Bourbon Sherry Cask Finish
For an “unusual” bourbon, we asked Raymond for his pick offering either a unique mash bill or finishing process. He opted for the lovely sherry influence found in Belle Meade Sherry Cask Finish.
“Belle Meade’s Sherry Cask is nine years old, and is finished in oloroso sherry barrels, giving it a sweetness that balances out the rich oak flavor from the first maturation,” Raymond says.
Belle Meade Bourbon Sherry Cask Finish / Photo Credit: Nelson’s Green Brier
Most Underrated Bourbon –
Woodford Reserve Double Oaked
For an underrated pick, Raymond looked behind the bar to see what his staff has been sipping on. “Woodford Reserve Double Oaked is a staff favorite at Reserve 101 and a personal go-to when I’m out and about,” he says.
Woodford Reserve Double Oaked / Photo Credit: Woodford Reserve
Best Bourbon Worth the Splurge –
Michter’s 20 Year Single Barrel
You might not have the Billions of Bobby Axelrod, but when you’re ready to splurge, you can turn to one of his favorites: Michter’s.
“Mitcher’s 20 year old comes with a hefty price tag, but 20 years in a barrel is still 20 years in a barrel,” Raymond says. While two decades is a long time for bourbon to age, he believes Michter’s has mastered the maturation art with this release. “There’s no substitution for long maturation when it’s done correctly.”
Michter’s 20 Year Single Barrel / Photo Credit: Michter’s
Best Bourbon for Classic Cocktails –
Wild Turkey 101
Hefty proof, plenty of spice, and a friendly price tag? Sounds like the makings of a killer classic cocktail.
“Wild Turkey 101, in my opinion, is the most versatile bourbon on the market,” Raymond says. “Not only is it great for classic cocktails, but no matter the mixer it stands up with distinction.”
Wild Turkey 101 / Photo Credit: Wild Turkey
Best Bourbon for Scotch Drinkers –
Angel’s Envy Port Finish
When you’re ready to hop across the pond and try something new, look for a gateway bourbon that can help you move past that threshold with ease.
“Angel’s Envy with its port finish will give the scotch fan that extra layer of flavor they have grown accustomed to,” Raymond says.
Angel’s Envy Port Finish / Photo Credit: Angel’s Envy
Seven ways to enjoy National Bourbon Day—or one daily pick to keep on celebrating for the whole week!
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