Introduction
Today, we're jumping into a fun and practical challenge: building the perfect starter whiskey collection. If you're just getting into whiskey and want to stock your home bar with a solid selection without breaking the bank, this is for you. We’ve given ourselves a hypothetical $300 budget to create the best beginner whiskey shelf possible. The goal? To balance variety, quality, and value, ensuring you get the most bang for your buck.
Starting a collection is a big step--when you want to move beyond the occasional single bottle and offer different kinds of whiskey to your guests at different price points, it's important to know how to build up your liquor shelf. We know that whiskey prices have been on the rise, and with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That’s why we’re taking this challenge seriously. We’ll be making our picks in a draft-style format, but for simplicity, we’ve grouped all of Bob’s picks together and all of Brad’s picks together in the sections below.
This article is taken from our podcast episode of the same name. Click the link to listen for more in-depth reviews of each whiskey.
So, without further ado, let’s get into the rules and then break down our selections!
The Rules
Here’s how this whiskey draft works:
- We each have a budget of $300 to build our perfect beginner whiskey collection.
- Each whiskey must be widely available and reasonably priced in most regions of the U.S.
- We aim to pick at least three bottles, but the goal is to have a well-rounded collection.
- Once a whiskey is selected by one of us, it’s off the board and cannot be picked by the other.
Now that we’ve set the stage, let’s dive into the picks!
Bob's Picks
The Sexton Single Malt Irish Whiskey - $25
The Sexton is one of our favorite Irish whiskeys on the podcast, and at just $25, it’s an absolute steal. This single malt offers rich, sherry-influenced flavors with notes of dried fruit, spice, and a smooth, creamy finish. It’s an excellent choice for those new to whiskey or for anyone who enjoys a smooth, easy-drinking spirit.
Monkey Shoulder Blended Scotch - $35
For those looking to dip their toes into Scotch, Monkey Shoulder is a fantastic starting point. This blended Scotch is smooth, sweet, and versatile, with flavors of malt, honey, and a touch of spice. At $35, it’s a great introduction to the world of Scotch without overwhelming the palate or the wallet.
Jack Daniel's Triple Mash - $38
Jack Daniel's Triple Mash surprised us with its depth and complexity. Priced at $38, it’s slightly more expensive than your average Jack Daniel’s bottle, but it’s worth every penny. The Triple Mash blends three different grains—corn, rye, and malt—resulting in a whiskey that’s rich, flavorful, and a cut above the rest in the Jack Daniel’s lineup.
Johnny Drum Private Stock - $44
Johnny Drum is a lesser-known gem from the Willett Distillery, coming in at $44. It’s a high-quality bourbon that offers rich, oaky flavors with a hint of spice and sweetness. If you’re a fan of Willett products like Noah’s Mill, Johnny Drum is a great way to experience that signature “Willett funk” without breaking the bank.
Green River Full Proof - $50
Green River Full Proof is one of the most talked-about bourbons from the past year, and for good reason. At $50, it offers incredible flavor and value, with a high rye mash bill that brings a spicy kick alongside sweet, rich caramel notes. Green River is a rising star in the bourbon world, and this bottle is a must-have for any collection.
Wild Turkey Rare Breed - $50
Wild Turkey Rare Breed is a high-proof bourbon that packs a punch at 116.8 proof. This one is for those who want to dive into the world of high-proof whiskey without sacrificing drinkability. It’s bold, spicy, and sweet, with a great balance of flavors. Rare Breed is a great value at $50, offering a premium experience without the premium price tag.
Woodford Reserve Double Oaked - $56
Woodford Reserve Double Oaked is a consistent favorite. Priced at $56, it's rich with caramel and vanilla notes, offering a deep, well-rounded bourbon experience. Whether you're enjoying it neat or using it in a cocktail, it's a great addition to any beginner's collection.
Brad's Picks
Rebel 100 - $20
Rebel 100 proof bourbon is an easy choice for my first pick. It’s a versatile bourbon at an unbeatable price, perfect for mixing or sipping. At $20, it’s the ultimate value bourbon and a must-have on any starter shelf.
Cooper's Craft Barrel Reserve - $34
Cooper’s Craft Barrel Reserve is a bourbon that flies under the radar, but it’s one of the best values out there. At just $34, it offers a rich, flavorful profile with notes of caramel, toffee, and spice. It’s perfect for those looking for a quality bourbon without spending a fortune.
Old Forester 1910 - $56
Old Forester 1910 is a bourbon that’s part of the brand’s Whiskey Row Series, and it’s known for its rich, dark flavors. This bourbon undergoes a second barreling, which adds layers of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak. At $56, it’s a great choice for those who love a bourbon with depth and character.
Barrel Seagrass - $85
Barrel Seagrass is a rye whiskey that’s finished in a variety of cask types, including rum, madeira, and apricot brandy barrels. This unique finishing process gives it a complex flavor profile, combining the spice of rye with the sweetness of the cask finishes. At $85, it’s the most expensive bottle on my list, but it’s an absolute standout in terms of flavor and craftsmanship.
Lagavulin 16 Year Old - $105
Lagavulin 16 Year Old is the pinnacle of peated single malt Scotch, offering rich, smoky flavors balanced by sweet, sherry-influenced notes. At $105, it’s a splurge, but it’s worth every penny for the quality and depth of flavor it delivers.
Conclusion
So there you have it—our perfect picks for a beginner whiskey collection. Whether you lean towards Bob’s frugal yet diverse lineup or Brad’s focus on quality over quantity, both collections offer a great starting point for anyone looking to explore the world of whiskey. We’ve covered a range of flavors and styles, from high-proof bourbons to smooth Irish whiskeys and sophisticated Scotch. The best part? You don’t need to break the bank to build a collection you can be proud of.
We want to know—whose collection do you think came out on top? What would your $300 whiskey shelf look like? Let us know by reaching out on social media or joining the conversation on our Discord server. And remember, whether you’re a seasoned whiskey drinker or just starting out, the most important thing is to enjoy the journey. Cheers!
