Popular Allocated Bourbons You Should Know About
Popular Allocated Bourbons .If you’re a bourbon enthusiast or just beginning to explore the world of whiskey, you’ve likely heard of allocated bourbons. These rare, limited-release bottles have gained legendary status among collectors and drinkers alike. But what makes certain bourbons so popular and hard to find? In this post, we’ll explore some of the most popular allocated bourbons and why they’re worth the hunt.
What Is Allocated Bourbon?
Before diving into specific bottles, it’s important to understand what allocated bourbon is. Simply put, allocated bourbons are produced in limited quantities and distributed to select retailers, making them difficult to find. These bourbons are highly coveted for their craftsmanship, flavor profile, and rarity, often leading to high demand and even higher prices.
1. Pappy Van Winkle
Why It’s Popular: Pappy Van Winkle is one of the most iconic names in the world of bourbon. Known for its smooth, rich flavor, this bourbon is aged longer than most and has become a staple in high-end bourbon collections. Due to its limited availability, bottles of Pappy Van Winkle are extremely hard to come by, often requiring connections or luck to score one.
Tasting Notes: Expect flavors of caramel, vanilla, and oak with a long, velvety finish.
Age Statement: The lineup includes 12, 15, 20, and 23-year-old bottles.
Blanton’s Single Barrel
Why It’s Popular: Blanton’s Single Barrel is another top contender in the world of popular allocated bourbons. It’s recognized by its unique bottle shape and distinctive horse stopper, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious. Since it’s a single-barrel bourbon, every bottle offers slightly different tasting notes, which adds to its intrigue.
Tasting Notes: Expect a mix of honey, vanilla, and a hint of citrus.
Age Statement: There’s no official age statement, but it’s typically aged for 6 to 8 years.
W.L. Weller 12 Year
Why It’s Popular: Often referred to as “Poor Man’s Pappy,” W.L. Weller shares a similar wheat recipe to the highly sought-after Pappy Van Winkle but at a more accessible price—if you can find it. Its smooth and sweet profile makes it a favorite among bourbon lovers, and its scarcity adds to the demand.
Tasting Notes: Vanilla, honey, and a rich oak finish.
Age Statement: 12 years.
George T. Stagg
Why It’s Popular: George T. Stagg is part of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection and is known for being uncut and unfiltered, which gives it an intense flavor and high proof. It’s a favorite among those who like their bourbon bold and flavorful, with a kick.
Tasting Notes: Dark chocolate, caramel, and hints of coffee.
Age Statement: Typically aged for 15+ years.
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof
Why It’s Popular: This allocated bourbon is adored for its robust flavor and high proof, delivering intense notes of oak and spice. Each release of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof offers a slightly different flavor profile, which makes it exciting for collectors and connoisseurs alike.
Tasting Notes: Caramel, vanilla, and peppery spice.
Age Statement: 12 years.
How to Find Popular Allocated Bourbons
If you’re looking to score one of these popular allocated bourbons, it’s going to take some work. Here are a few strategies to help you on your quest:
- Build Relationships with Liquor Stores: Get to know the owners and staff at local liquor stores. They can give you a heads-up when rare bottles come in.
- Sign Up for Alerts: Some retailers offer email or text alerts for allocated bourbon releases.
- Enter Lotteries: Some stores and states hold lotteries to ensure fair distribution of limited stock.
- Check Online Retailers: While prices may be marked up, online retailers occasionally have allocated bourbons in stock.
Conclusion
Finding popular allocated bourbons can be a challenge, but the reward is well worth the effort. From Pappy Van Winkle’s legendary status to Blanton’s collectible appeal, these bourbons represent the pinnacle of craftsmanship and flavor. Start your hunt today, and you might just find a bottle that transforms your collection.
