8 Bourbon Buying Red Flags to Watch For

There are more bottles of bourbon on the shelves than ever before, so it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement. However, not all bourbon is worth the cost or even the pour. Knowing what to stay away from is beneficial, regardless of your level of experience with bourbon. You can spend your money wisely and drink something that is genuinely worth savoring by avoiding expensive, overhyped, or unimpressive bottles by using these eight warning signs.

1. No Age Statement but a Premium Price

A bottle that charges top dollar without stating its age is a serious red flag. Even though not all excellent bourbons have an age statement, it can be disappointing to spend more than $60 on something that is “straight” without knowing how long it has been aged. Only two years of aging are guaranteed by the term “straight bourbon.” You’re probably more interested in branding than content if the bottle doesn’t specify how old it is and it costs a lot of money.

2. Vague Distillery or Bottling Info

Openness is important. It’s a warning sign if a bottle just reads “Bottled by XYZ Spirits” or doesn’t specify where it was distilled. While sourcing a lot of bourbon, frequently from big producers like MGP in Indiana, isn’t necessarily a bad thing, concealing it is. Good brands disclose their aging and blending process or are forthright about their source. It’s usually an indication that the manufacturer is relying more on branding than quality if the bottle leaves things unclear.

3. Flashy Packaging Without Substance

Although bourbon can be made to stand out with tall bottles, wax tops, metallic labels, and extravagant corks, attractive packaging does not always indicate that the contents are worthwhile. Some companies invest more in the appearance of a bottle than in the juice. Before purchasing a bottle just because it appears high-end, always read reviews or consult reliable sources. Some of the best bourbons are packaged in simple glass bottles with labels made of paper.

4. Overuse of Buzzwords Like “Reserve,” “Small Batch,” or “Craft”

Words like “limited edition,” “small batch,” and “craft” are frequently employed more for marketing purposes than for accuracy. The designation may be meaningless because there is no rule defining what constitutes reserve or small batch bourbon. Just because the bottle claims to be exclusive doesn’t mean that the product is of high quality. Look for the real information, such as the maker, age, proof, and mash bill. That conveys more information than any meaningless buzzword ever could.

5. Unusually Low Price for High Claims

Be cautious if a bottle is priced significantly below market standards but claims to be aged for more than ten years or made from rare grains. Making quality bourbon is expensive, particularly if it’s truly aged. An excessively low price could indicate that the product is overstating its qualifications or taking shortcuts. Although there are bargains, bourbon that seems too good to be true is frequently not. Do your homework before making a purchase.

6. “Finished” Bourbons That Don’t Mention the Base Spirit

In order to add complexity, many bourbons are now finished in barrels of wine, sherry, or rum. That’s okay, but it’s problematic if the label only mentions the finished barrel and doesn’t specify which bourbon it was made with. A weak base cannot be fixed by a finish. Both the type of barrel finish and the bourbon used are proudly stated by quality brands; if only the finish is emphasized, it could be a cover-up for inferior whiskey.

7. Limited Release Hype with No Track Record

New “limited” or “special” releases, frequently with ostentatious labels and expensive price tags, are constantly hitting the shelves. However, proceed with caution if the distillery is new or has no reputation. Sales of limited runs from unidentified producers are frequently fueled by FOMO. Don’t purchase a bottle just because it says “limited edition” unless you’ve tried a sample or read trustworthy reviews. It might be a marketing costume for a mediocre bourbon.

8. Celebrity-Endorsed or Influencer Brands with No Distilling Experience

Few celebrities actually participate in the distillation process, despite the fact that more celebrities are releasing bourbon. While some promote high-quality goods, many brand-name whiskey and raise the price. It’s typically an indication that the bourbon itself may fall short if the primary attraction of a brand is the individual behind it rather than the method, flavor, or quality. Prioritize quality over star power and do your homework.