In the world of whiskey, few spirits carry the legacy, pride, and passion of bourbon. But with so many bottles on the shelf—from small-batch treasures to big-name legends—how do you separate the good from the great?
At The Bourbon Flight, we believe that greatness in bourbon is more than just a high proof or a pretty bottle. It’s a careful combination of craftsmanship, character, and soul. Here’s what separates a great bourbon from the rest.
1. It Starts with the Mash Bill
A great bourbon begins with a balanced mash bill—at least 51% corn by law, but the rest is where the magic happens. Whether it’s rye for a spicy kick, wheat for smooth sweetness, or malted barley for complexity, the grain mix sets the foundation for flavor.
2. The Art of Aging
Time in the barrel doesn’t just matter—it defines the bourbon. Great bourbons are aged to perfection in new, charred American oak barrels. They absorb flavor from the wood, the climate, and the seasons. Too young, and it’s harsh. Too old, and it can become over-oaked. But when the timing is right? Pure gold.
3. Masterful Distillation
The best bourbons are made by distillers who treat their craft like an art form. From fermentation to distillation to barreling, every step is intentional. Great bourbon is clean, rich, and full of depth—with no shortcuts taken along the way.
4. Unmistakable Flavor
What makes a bourbon memorable is its flavor profile. Caramel, vanilla, oak, baking spices, dark fruit, even a hint of tobacco or leather—great bourbons layer these notes in harmony. They’re smooth, but not boring. Bold, but not overpowering.
5. A Long, Satisfying Finish
A great bourbon doesn’t just taste good—it lingers. The finish should be warm, flavorful, and leave you wanting another sip. It’s that lasting impression that sets a top-tier bourbon apart.
6. Story and Soul
Let’s not forget the intangible. The distillery’s history, the people behind the bottle, the tradition passed down through generations—it all matters. Great bourbon tells a story. It’s not just what’s in the glass, but where it comes from and why it was made. And yes, we are partial to Kentucky bourbon’s but many in other states are creating a challenge.
Final Pour:
Great bourbon isn’t just about hype or price. It’s about balance, complexity, craftsmanship, and character. At The Bourbon Flight, we raise a glass to the bottles that remind us why we fell in love with bourbon in the first place. But in all honesty, most bourbon’s are great because they are great to the drinker. Every bourbon is unique. And are there really any bad bourbon’s?
Have a favorite that you consider “great”? Let us know—your next sip might just make our next Flight.
