The Guide to the Perfect Gifts for  Bourbon Lovers

Bourbon lovers aren’t hard to shop for, but finding the perfect gift that combines thoughtfulness and their favorite pastime? That takes things to the next level. Whether you’re shopping for a seasoned enthusiast or someone new to bourbon, this guide has the perfect gift ideas for any occasion.

From curated bourbon subscriptions to epic accessories, you’ll discover suggestions that are sure to impress and elevate any bourbon experience.

The Ultimate Bourbon Gift: Monthly Bourbon Selections, Curated

For the bourbon lover who dreams of building their collection and trying expertly curated bottles, without the hassle of searching, bourbon of the month clubs are a game-changer. These subscriptions are designed to deliver exclusive and expertly curated bottles right to their door, making them the perfect gift for any enthusiast.

Get Top Picks Month to Month

Each month, members receive unique and premium bottles of bourbon. Each delivery is thoughtfully curated by our expert team with decades of spirits experience. Taster’s Club subscriptions feature tasting notes to guide the recipient through aroma, flavor, and finish. Gift something more than just bourbon; they get an experience!

A month-to-month option makes it easy to get expertly curated bottles and pause as you need. Plus, they’ll love the surprise element of exploring a bourbon they may not have discovered on their own!

Prepaid 3-Month and 6-Month Gifts

Want to make a more lasting impression? Opt for a 3-month or 6-month prepaid subscription.

This gives the recipient the chance to truly immerse themselves in a variety of bourbons over time, providing months of enjoyment and new discoveries. Each shipment delivers standout bottles they can savor while expanding their bourbon palate.

This extended experience feels personal and thoughtful, and is the gift that keeps on giving! Perfect for Father’s Day, graduation, birthdays, anniversaries, or other holidays.

Other Pay-As-You-Go Options

If a subscription isn’t quite the right fit, check out pay-as-you-go options from online bourbon clubs or shops. This flexibility is perfect for those who want to gift bourbon without committing to on-going shipments.

The 3 Top Rare Bourbons to Gift

1. Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve 20 Year

Few names in bourbon are as legendary as Pappy Van Winkle. It’s produced by Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery in collaboration with Buffalo Trace. This bourbon uses a wheated mash bill, replacing rye with wheat to create a smoother, richer flavor. Aged for two decades in carefully selected charred oak barrels. A true classic.

Tasting Notes: The nose opens with aromas of caramel, dark chocolate, and dried fruit with hints of vanilla and toasted oak. On the palate you’ll enjoy layers of aged oak, sweet toffee, and spiced cherries. The finish is luxurious with hints of cinnamon and smoke to savor.

Region: Kentucky, USA | ABV: 45.20% | 750ml

Purchase Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve 20 Year

3. Eagle Rare 17 Year

First introduced as a premium bourbon in the early 2000s, Eagle Rare 17 Year is aged for a full 17 years in new charred oak barrels. This allows it to develop those deep and rich notes. Combined with its rarity and limited annual release, it’s a collector's dream. Each bottle reflects Buffalo Trace's commitment to traditional bourbon-making.

Tasting Notes: This rare bourbon begins with gentle hints of oak, and honey, on the nose. The palate is smooth with flavors of butterscotch, orange zest, and almond. It finishes silky. Leaving just a touch of leather to linger.

Region: Kentucky, USA | ABV: 50.50% | 750ml

Purchase Eagle Rare 17 Year

Discover other top rare bourbons

The 3 Top Bourbon Bottles Under $100 to Gift

1. Smokeye Hill Barrel Proof Straight Bourbon

Smokeye Hill Barrel Proof Straight Bourbon is bottled straight from the barrel at full proof. This creates a bourbon that delivers a rich, complex flavor profile that highlights its craftsmanship. With no watering down, it’s an authentic experience for bourbon enthusiasts seeking intense character and depth.

Tasting Notes: On the nose, expect warm aromas of toasted oak, maple syrup, and a hint of butterscotch. The palate opens with bold flavors of caramel and dark chocolate that is balanced by a touch of dried fruit. The finish is satisfying with lingering notes of charred oak and vanilla.

Region: Colorado, USA | ABV: 65.50% | 750ml

Purchase Smokeye Hill Barrel Proof Straight Bourbon

2. Weller Special Reserve

Weller Special Reserve, known as the "Original Wheated Bourbon," stands out for replacing rye with wheat in its mash bill, creating a softer, smoother flavor profile. It’s crafted by the renowned Buffalo Trace Distillery, and is aged in charred oak barrels to offer both complexity and approachability.

Tasting Notes: The nose begins with notes of honey, cinnamon, and subtle floral essence. On the palate, expect a balanced blend of caramel, vanilla, and mild oak. Followed by a soft, sweet finish.

Region: Kentucky, USA | ABV: 45.0% | 750ml

Purchase Weller Special Reserve

3. Bib & Tucker 6 Year Old Small Batch Bourbon

Bib & Tucker bourbon is about tradition and craftsmanship. Their name comes from the 1800s term for one’s finest attire—symbolizing elegance in every detail. This bourbon is made from premium grains and aged for six years in charred American oak barrels. Giving it a balance of boldness and refinement, making it a standout choice for bourbon enthusiasts.

Tasting Notes: On the nose you’ll pick up aromas of vanilla, caramel, and orange zest. The palate delivers a layered experience with notes of roasted nuts, baking spices, and a hint of maple syrup. Its finish is long with gentle lingering spice.

Region: Tennessee, USA | ABV: 46.0% | 750ml

Purchase Bib & Tucker 6 Year Old Small Batch Bourbon

Discover other top bourbons under $100.

The Top 3 Wheated Bourbons to Gift

1. Penelope Wheated Bourbon

Penelope crafts their bourbon with deep attention to detail, producing a whiskey that is both inviting and sophisticated. This expression is approachable enough for newcomers, offering a smooth and easy-drinking profile, yet layered with complexity to engage seasoned whiskey enthusiasts.

Tasting Notes: Rich aromas of vanilla, caramel, toasted oak, and subtle spices greet the nose. The palate is smooth and balanced, with creamy vanilla, warm cinnamon, honey, and a touch of orange zest. It finishes with lingering sweet spice, oak char, and gentle warmth.

Region: Kentucky, USA | ABV: 47.5% | 750ml

Purchase Penelope Wheated Bourbon

2. Ben Holladay Soft Red Winter Wheat Bourbon

Ben Holladay’s Soft Red Winter Wheat Bourbon is expertly crafted in Weston, Missouri from the 160+ year old Holladay Distillery. This wheated bourbon is made with soft red winter wheat as a key grain in its mash bill. It’s then aged in Missouri-seasoned white oak barrels, every bottle reflects the rich local terroir.

Tasting Notes: The nose opens with notes of toasted oak, apple pie, and cinnamon. On the palate, you'll experience sweet maple syrup, dark fruit, and creamy vanilla. The finish is warm with the perfect hint of spice.

Region: Missouri, USA | ABV: 47.50% | 750ml

Purchase Ben Holladay Soft Red Winter Wheat Bourbon

3. Redwood Empire Screaming Titan

Redwood Empire Screaming Titan is a remarkable blend of tradition and innovation, crafted in the heart of Sonoma County. This bourbon features a wheated mash bill, replacing rye with wheat. It’s then aged in American oak barrels. What makes this bottle and brand unique is the inspiration it takes from the towering redwoods trees, it embodies balance and strength.

Tasting Notes: This bourbon features bold aromas of chocolate, fresh-cut wood hints directly on the nose. From there, the palate offers beautiful notes of butterscotch and dried cherries. It finishes smoothly with notes of oak.

Region: California, USA | ABV: 48.0% | 750ml

Purchase Redwood Empire Screaming Titan

Discover other top wheated bourbons.

Epic Bourbon Accessories to Gift

Accessories make the perfect pairing with a Bourbon Subscription or nice bourbon bottle. Here are some of the top accessories to consider that will take their bourbon experience to that next level.

Bourbon Glasses

The right glassware can elevate any bourbon-drinking moment. Not only can it help elevate flavors, they also present a level of elegance that adds to the experience. Here are three exceptional options to consider:

Glencairn Whiskey Glass

A Glencairn glass is the gold standard for whiskey enthusiasts. If you’re gifting a serious bourbon lover, this is a must have. The tulip shape is designed to enhance the drinking experience by concentrating the bourbon's rich aromas, allowing drinkers to fully appreciate its complexity.

The sturdy base is designed to provide a comfortable grip for sipping and experience the nose, palette, and finish of a beautiful bourbon.

Rocks Glasses

These versatile whiskey glasses are perfect for serving bourbon on the rocks or your favorite whiskey cocktails. Rocks glasses are elegant and add a sense of sophistication to any drink, making them a great gift for bourbon lovers. They look beautiful both on the shelf at your home bar or in the hand of that special someone you’re gifting to.

Snifter Bourbon Glass

The snifter glass is ideal for those who love savoring bourbon’s deep flavors and nuanced aromas. This is the glass built for the expert bourbon connoisseur in your life.

Its wide bowl allows for optimal swirling and helps release the bourbon's full spectrum of the nose, palette, and finish. The slightly tapered rim concentrates the aromas for a more in-depth experience. Perfect for enjoying limited-edition releases.

Discover more on bourbon glasses.

Fancy Ice Molds

For those who enjoy bourbon on the rocks or want that robust and high-end cocktail look, fancy ice molds are an excellent gift for the bourbon lover in your life. Large ice spheres or cubes also melt slower than standard ice which keeps the bourbon chilled without diluting its flavor.

Sphere Ice Molds

These molds create perfectly round ice balls that melt slower than regular ice, keeping your drink colder for longer without diluting it. They’re ideal for whiskey or cocktails and add a touch of sophistication to your glass.

Square Ice Molds

While the shape doesn’t necessarily change or add anything to the drink, square ice molds are popular and look amazing in a Rocks Glass. Perfect for keeping your drink chilled while preserving its flavor.

Clear Ice Makers

Clear ice makers create crystal-clear cubes that not only look stunning but also melt slower and avoid any watered-down taste.

Other Bourbon Accessories to Consider

Want to take your gift one step further? Here are some additional accessories any bourbon enthusiast will appreciate:

Bourbon-Infused Treats

If you want to add a creative twist to your great bourbon gifts, consider pairing it with some bourbon-infused treats. Bourbon-infused chocolates, caramel sauces, or coffee beans are delicious ways to complement the drink and give the recipient a true bourbon experience beyond just the bottle.

These unique items make for a delightful addition to any good bourbon to give as a gift and show you’ve gone the extra mile to create a comprehensive, indulgent experience.

Whiskey Stones or Chilling Rocks

If your recipient enjoys their bourbon chilled but without dilution, whiskey stones or chilling rocks are a perfect complement to great bourbon gifts.

These reusable stones cool the drink without watering it down, enhancing your recipient’s sipping experience. Including these items shows that you've thought about how they enjoy their bourbon, making the gift even more thoughtful and practical.

Gift a Bourbon Subscription Box

For the person who’s always looking for something new, a bourbon gift club subscription can be an exciting option. These subscriptions typically deliver a curated selection of the best bourbons to gift each month, offering the recipient the chance to try new bourbon varieties they might not have purchased themselves. It’s a great bourbon gift that keeps on giving.

Bourbon Barrel Aged Coffee

The rich notes of bourbon-infused coffee beans bring together two favorite pastimes for many bourbon lovers. Perfect for savoring on slow mornings.

Decanters & Engraved Gifts

You can find engraved bourbon glasses, decanters, or even bourbon tumblers etched with the recipient’s name, initials, or a special message. This small personal touch adds a sense of sophistication and makes the gift feel unique.

Bourbon Tasting Journals

Help them keep track of their favorite bourbons with a dedicated tasting journal. They’ll love recording their tasting notes, making the experience even more memorable.

Bar Tool Kits

A premium bar tool set is the ultimate gift for bourbon connoisseurs who love crafting cocktails. Look for kits with jiggers, mixing spoons, strainers, and muddlers.

Other Spirits, Stock The Bar

For a gift that keeps on giving, consider a "Stock the Bar" subscription from services like Taster’s Club. These curated subscriptions deliver a carefully selected spirit each month, allowing recipients to expand their collection and discover new favorites.

5 Tips on How to Choose the Best Bourbons to Gift

Selecting the perfect bourbon can be a bit overwhelming, especially with so many options available. However, by considering a few key factors, you can easily find a bottle that will make an exceptional gift. Here are five tips to help you choose the best bourbon to gift:

1. Know Their Preferences

When selecting the best bourbons to gift, consider the recipient’s flavor preferences. Some bourbon drinkers love sweet, smooth profiles with vanilla, caramel, and honey notes, while others prefer bolder, spicier flavors. For a universally appealing choice, consider Maker’s Mark, which is known for its approachable sweetness, or Woodford Reserve, which offers a balanced blend of dried fruit, oak, and spice.

2. Consider Experience Level

Tailor your choice based on the recipient’s bourbon drinking experience. A seasoned drinker might appreciate the complexity and higher proof of Blanton’s Single Barrel, which delivers a rich, unique taste from each barrel. For someone newer to bourbon, Buffalo Trace or Elijah Craig Small Batch offers smooth and accessible flavors that are great for sipping neat or mixing in cocktails, making them great bourbon gifts.

3. Choose Limited Edition or Special Bottles

To make a bold statement, select limited-edition or rare bottles like Larceny Barrel Proof or Russell’s Reserve 10 Year. These exclusive offerings are among the best bourbons to gift, standing out due to their rich, unique flavor profiles and rarity. They ensure your gift is something truly memorable and highly sought after. Whether it’s a special release or an aged bottle, these choices are perfect for collectors or connoisseurs.

4. Set a Budget and Find the Best Value

Pick bourbons that match your budget while still offering exceptional quality. The best bourbon options under $50, such as Russel’s Reserve 10-Year or Elijah Craig Small Batch, offer high-end quality and bold flavors.

5. Ask for Recommendations

If you're unsure which bourbon to choose, don't hesitate to reach out to our team. We can guide you in finding great bourbon gifts based on the recipient’s taste preferences, helping you discover the good bourbon to give as a gift—whether you're looking for something rare, budget-friendly, or a classic bottle.

Wrap it All Up With For The Perfect Gift

Finding the perfect gift for a bourbon lover is about understanding their passion for the drink and choosing items that elevate their experience. Whether you opt for a subscription, beautiful glassware, or accessories that enhance, these thoughtful options make sure every sip is memorable. Happy gifting!