Top 10 Allocated Bourbons You Must Try in 2024
Allocated bourbons are among the most coveted spirits in the world, offering unique flavors, rich histories, and an aura of exclusivity. These limited-edition releases are sought after by collectors and connoisseurs alike. Here’s a guide to the top 10 allocated bourbons you must try in 2024.Top 10 Allocated Bourbons You Must Try in 2024
1. Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve 15 Year
Why You Should Try It: Pappy Van Winkle’s 15 Year is a legendary bourbon known for its depth and complexity. This bourbon is rich with notes of caramel, oak, and vanilla, providing a full-bodied and luxurious experience.
Tasting Notes:
- Appearance: Deep amber
- Nose: Caramel, toffee, and vanilla
- Palate: Full-bodied with honey, roasted nuts, and tobacco
- Finish: Long, warm, and smooth
2. George T. Stagg
Why You Should Try It: Part of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, George T. Stagg is a high-proof, uncut, and unfiltered bourbon known for its bold flavors and strength.
Tasting Notes:
- Appearance: Dark amber
- Nose: Dark chocolate, vanilla, and cherry
- Palate: Robust with notes of tobacco, molasses, and oak
- Finish: Long and potent, with lingering spice
3. William Larue Weller
Why You Should Try It: This wheated bourbon from the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection is known for its creamy texture and balanced sweetness. It’s uncut, unfiltered, and offers a rich, complex profile.
Tasting Notes:
- Appearance: Deep bronze
- Nose: Butterscotch, figs, and vanilla
- Palate: Creamy caramel, honey, and cinnamon
- Finish: Long with a warm, spicy kick
4. Eagle Rare 17 Year
Why You Should Try It: Celebrated for its smooth and balanced profile, Eagle Rare 17 Year offers a refined tasting experience with sophisticated flavors.
Tasting Notes:
- Appearance: Rich amber
- Nose: Vanilla, maple, and toasted oak
- Palate: Cocoa, almond, and honey
- Finish: Long and dry with a hint of tobacco
5. Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye
Why You Should Try It: This uncut and unfiltered straight rye whiskey is bold and spicy, making it a favorite among rye enthusiasts.
Tasting Notes:
- Appearance: Golden amber
- Nose: Cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg
- Palate: Allspice, toffee, and citrus
- Finish: Long with lingering spice and sweetness
6. Old Forester Birthday Bourbon
Why You Should Try It: Released annually to celebrate George Garvin Brown’s birthday, this bourbon is known for its unique blend and rich flavors.
Tasting Notes:
- Appearance: Golden amber
- Nose: Brown sugar, vanilla, and ripe fruit
- Palate: Sweet and creamy with caramel, maple, and nutmeg
- Finish: Warm and lasting with a touch of oak
7. Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch
Why You Should Try It: This blend of Four Roses’ finest barrels is celebrated for its complexity and balance.
Tasting Notes:
- Appearance: Golden amber
- Nose: Sweet fruit, rich caramel, and light oak
- Palate: Cherry, green apple, and spice
- Finish: Long with notes of honey and mint
8. Michter’s 20 Year Single Barrel Bourbon
Why You Should Try It: Aged for two decades, this bourbon offers a deeply rich and sophisticated profile.
Tasting Notes:
- Appearance: Dark amber
- Nose: Oak, caramel, and vanilla
- Palate: Deep and complex with chocolate, toffee, and spice
- Finish: Long with lingering sweetness and spice
9. Elijah Craig 18 Year
Why You Should Try It: Known for its deep and complex flavors, Elijah Craig 18 Year is a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts.Top 10 Allocated Bourbons You Must Try in 2024
Tasting Notes:
- Appearance: Dark amber
- Nose: Vanilla, caramel, and oak
- Palate: Rich with notes of chocolate, spice, and dried fruit
- Finish: Long with a smooth, warm finish
10. Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel
Why You Should Try It: This cask-strength bourbon offers bold flavors and a robust profile.
Tasting Notes:
- Appearance: Deep amber
- Nose: Smoke, walnuts, and hazelnut
- Palate: Honey, rye, and a medley of spices
- Finish: Strong with nuances of chocolate, espresso, and spice
Why Allocated Bourbons Are Special
Allocated bourbons are often limited in production and distribution, making them highly sought after. These bourbons are typically released once a year, and their limited availability, along with their exceptional quality, makes them a prized possession for collectors and enthusiasts.Top 10 Allocated Bourbons You Must Try in 2024
How to Find Allocated Bourbons
Finding allocated bourbons can be a challenge due to their limited availability. Here are some tips to help you get your hands on these coveted bottles:
- Join Bourbon Clubs: Many bourbon clubs have allocations that members can purchase.
- Visit Liquor Stores Regularly: Establish a relationship with your local liquor store. They can notify you when they receive allocated bourbons.
- Online Retailers: Websites like Bourbon Haven often have allocations available for purchase.
- Bourbon Festivals: Attend bourbon festivals and events where allocated bourbons may be available for tasting and purchase.
Conclusion
Allocated bourbons are the crown jewels of the bourbon world, offering unparalleled flavors and a sense of exclusivity. The bourbons listed above are must-tries for 2024, each providing a unique and exceptional tasting experience. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a bourbon enthusiast, these allocated bourbons are sure to impress. Enjoy your bourbon journey responsibly, and savor every sip of these remarkable spirits.Top 10 Allocated Bourbons You Must Try in 2024
FAQs
What makes a bourbon allocated?
Allocated bourbons are produced in limited quantities and distributed selectively, making them rare and highly sought after.
How often are allocated bourbons released?
Most allocated bourbons are released annually, but availability can vary based on the distillery’s production schedule
Where can I buy allocated bourbons?
You can buy allocated bourbons at select liquor stores, online retailers like Bourbon Haven, bourbon clubs, and at bourbon festivals.
Why are allocated bourbons more expensive?
The limited production and high demand for allocated bourbons drive up their price, making them more expensive than regular releases.
Are allocated bourbons worth the price?
Allocated bourbons are often worth the price due to their exceptional quality, unique flavors, and the prestige associated with their limited availability.
