Bourbon is an American-made spirit, primarily produced in Kentucky, although it can technically be made anywhere in the US. Bourbon is a type of whisky, but not all whisky is Bourbon. It has specific rules that set it apart from other whiskies. Additionally, according to the law, for a whisky to be legally labelled as bourbon, it must contain at least 51% corn in its mash bill. This high corn content gives Bourbon a sweet, full-bodied taste with notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak.
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In India, Bourbon whisky has gained immense popularity due to its rich and smooth flavour profile, making it a favourite for many special occasions and celebrations. Each brand offers unique characteristics that cater to different tastes and preferences. In this article, let's explore the top bourbon whisky brands in India and see what makes each one unique.
Elijah Craig
Elijah Craig, established in 1789 by Reverend Elijah Craig, is renowned for its full-bodied flavour and hints of vanilla and caramel. It’s known for its unique ageing process in charred oak barrels. Prices range from Rs 3,000 to Rs 5,500, depending on the bottle size. Popular sizes include 375ml and 750ml. Top-selling products are Elijah Craig Small Batch and Elijah Craig Barrel Proof. You can find Elijah Craig in major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru.
Also Read: Top 10 Whisky Brands To Try In India
Jim Beam
Founded in 1795 by Jacob Beam, Jim Beam is a historic brand known for its smooth and balanced taste with notes of vanilla, oak, and caramel. Jim Beam offers a range of bourbons, including the classic Jim Beam White Label. Prices typically range from Rs 2,500 to Rs 4,000. Common sizes are 500 ml and 750 ml. Its top-selling products include Jim Beam Bourbon and Jim Beam Black Label. It’s widely available in cities such as Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata.
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Jack Daniel's
Although primarily known as Tennessee whisky, Jack Daniel's offers a bourbon-like experience with its smooth, rich flavour profile featuring notes of caramel and vanilla. Founded in 1866 by Jasper Newton "Jack" Daniel, it’s priced between Rs 3,000 and Rs 5,000. Available sizes include 500ml and 750ml. The top-selling product is Jack Daniel's Old No. 7. Jack Daniel's is available in major urban areas like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore.
Wild Turkey 101
Wild Turkey 101, established by the Ripy brothers in 1869, is known for its robust, spicy flavour with hints of vanilla and oak. The bourbon is priced from Rs 4,000 to Rs 6,500 and is typically available in 750-ml bottles. Top-selling products include Wild Turkey 101 and Wild Turkey Rare Breed. It’s found in cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Pune.
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Bulleit Bourbon
Founded in 1987 by Tom Bulleit, Bulleit Bourbon is celebrated for its high rye content, giving it a bold and spicy flavour with notes of vanilla and oak. It is priced between Rs 3,000 and Rs 5,500 and comes in sizes like 750 ml. Its top-selling product is Bulleit Bourbon Frontier Whisky. Bulleit Bourbon can be found in cities such as Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad.
Woodford Reserve
Woodford Reserve, established in 1996, offers a rich, complex flavour with notes of dried fruit, vanilla, and toasted oak. It is priced from Rs 4,000 to Rs 6,000 and is commonly available in 750-ml bottles. Top products include Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Woodford Reserve Double Oaked. It’s available in major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru.
Jefferson's Reserve
Jefferson's Reserve, launched in 1997 by Trey Zoeller, is known for its rich flavour with hints of vanilla, caramel, and toasted oak. Prices range from Rs 7,000 to Rs 9,500, and it’s available in 750-ml sizes. The top-selling product is Jefferson's Reserve Bourbon. This Bourbon can be found in cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai.
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Knob Creek
Knob Creek, introduced by Jim Beam in 1992, is renowned for its strong, full-bodied flavour with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. It is priced between Rs 3,500 and Rs 6,000 and is available in 750-ml bottles. Popular products include Knob Creek Small Batch and Knob Creek Single Barrel Reserve. It’s available in cities such as Bangalore, Mumbai, and Delhi.