The history of bourbon in America stretches back well over 100 years, and in all that time, the world has ever tasted was born. From the time after Prohibition to roughly the 1970s, bourbon as a category enjoyed a steady ascent in popularity before losing ground and falling out of favor compared to clear spirits from the 70s to the 90s. Since the 90s, however, we’ve seen a complete resurgence, with bourbon becoming once again.
Now, , there are also more options than ever. Not only are budding bourbon aficionados carefully combing liquor store shelves for great finds, but the genuinely advanced bourbon hunters are mining the past and buying up vintage bottles, robbing Father Time and whetting their curiosity for the best bourbons ever to be made. Unlike any other, bourbon is America’s Native Spirit, and as a spirit, that pretty much means you have to try the best of it before you die, right? Well, in this life, we’ve only got so much time, so we won’t waste another breath — this is our list of the 50 best bourbons you need to try before you die! 50.
Maker’s Mark Bourbon Maker’s Mark features the bourbon world’s most iconic bottle design, the same one they’ve been utilizing since their founding in 1953, and a mash bill that’s been used for just as long. This wheated bourbon is one of the best-selling whiskeys in the entire world, making it a ubiquitous sight on liquor store shelves. On the nose, you’ll find a bit of corn pudding, vanilla extract, and indis.