The Whiskey's I'm Drinking Now - Spring 2026 Edition

I am really enjoying my deep dive into learning all about whiskey, and particularly, bourbons and ryes from the U.S. In addition to my annual whiskey advent calendar for Christmas which provides me with the opportunity to taste whiskeys from around the world, I also took an on-line whiskey class last year (I passed the final exam!) and am now taking the second level course! As always though, the best way to learn about any spirit is to taste it, so here are a few selections from my recent whiskey purchases!

Over time, as I sample a larger selection of bourbons and ryes, I am starting to identify particular characteristics that I’m drawn to and that I enjoy most often. This list is a work in progress, and I’m sure I will add to it or modify it in the coming year. But for now, here are the stylistic characteristics I look for when purchasing whiskeys:

• Inherent sweetness: I absolutely love the slightly sweeter components of bourbon, and gravitate toward those that have rich caramel, brown sugar, vanilla, and stone fruit flavors. I think these flavors serve to balance the spirits into a coherent whole.

  
  

• Higher proof: I have developed a clear preference for high proof bourbons and ryes, which means offerings that are at least 50% ABV (or 100 proof) and higher (even as high as 120 proof). I find these higher proof sprits to be more complex in character, with a greater depth of flavor and longer, more satisfying finishes as well.

  
  

• Light spice: I also really enjoy bourbons and ryes that have a light spice component, such as baking spices and toasted oak spice. The spice provides a nice counterbalance to the sweetness of the corn forward mash in bourbons, and of course rye has a natural spiciness to it that takes it to the next level!

  
  

• Subtle smoothness: Finally, I am drawn to whiskeys that are silky smooth in the mouth and especially on the finish. Some might argue that higher proof offerings are harsher than their lower proof cousins, but I don’t find that to be the case. The best high proof bourbons and ryes are crafted to emphasize balance and a smooth, lush finish.

  
  

 I’d be interested in hearing what types of whiskey you like most, and why – let me know! In the meantime, here are four whiskeys I’m drinking now!

Barrell Foundation Cask Strength Single Barrel Straight Rye Whiskey ($109). This rye whiskey was aged seven years in the barrel and is a high-proof rye at 114 proof. It has an intense nose that consists of pepper, toasted oak, and a hint of smoke. This rye shows warm baking spice, charred wood, dried fruit, and brown sugar on the palate. There’s a nice heat and charred burn on the finish, with notes of caramel corn and spice. It’s a rich, intense, spicy, and concentrated rye and well worth the elevated price! Rating: Superb!

Barrell Foundation 5-Year Bourbon ($47). This bourbon weighs in at 50% ABV or 100 proof, and is aged 5 years in the barrel. It’s a blend of straight bourbon whiskeys from Kentucky, Indiana, Tennessee, and Maryland. The mash bill included 73% corn, 23% rye, and 4% malted barley. It’s golden caramel in color, with a rich intense nose that shows maple syrup and black cherry notes. I taste brown sugar, sweet corn, burnt caramel, and toasted oak in the mouth. The finish is long and strong with a nice burn and sweetness on the finish. Rating: Very Good.

Henry McKenna Single Barrel Bottled in Bond Bourbon Whiskey ($63). This 100-proof straight bourbon whiskey was aged 10 years and has a complex flavor profile. I get caramel and vanilla notes on the finish, along with light spice. In the mouth, I taste burnt caramel, graham cracker, and light baking spice notes along with a hint of toasted oak. The finish is nice, long, and smooth with mild heat. This is a nicely-restrained bourbon with lots to like – easy drinking and elegantly crafted. Rating: Excellent!

Blanton’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey ($79). I absolutely love everything about Blanton’s bourbons, including the beautiful bottle and topper that are both works of art. Every Blanton bourbon I’ve tasted so far has presented a textbook example of what every bourbon should be: sweet caramel notes on the nose along with light spice; bright cinammon, honey, vanilla, and toasted oak; and light heat on the finish, with campfire notes. This bourbon is earthy, sweet, and complex, and perfectly balanced with 93 proof and beautiful structure. This is definitely a release for the thoughtful bourbon drinker! Rating: Superb!