Bourbon has a rich history and distinctive flavor profile, so it should come as no surprise that it holds a special place in American culture.
Over the past decade, bourbon has garnered a dedicated following domestically and internationally. Within the United States, several bourbon brands have risen to prominence, captivating the palates of whiskey enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.
Let’s dive into the best-selling bourbon brands in the U.S. in 2024, according to Shaken News.
1. Maker’s Mark
Maker’s Mark is an iconic bourbon brand known for its signature red wax-sealed bottles and smooth, mellow flavor profile.
Established in 1953, this Kentucky-based distillery has remained true to its traditional methods of production, using a high proportion of corn in its mash bill along with red winter wheat.
This results in a bourbon with a soft and approachable character. Maker’s Mark’s commitment to quality and consistency has earned it a loyal following, making it one of the best-selling bourbon brands in the United States.
2. Bulleit Bourbon Frontier Whiskey
Bulleit Bourbon Frontier Whiskey has experienced a surge in popularity in recent years, thanks in part to its distinctive high-rye mash bill and bold flavor profile.
Founded by Tom Bulleit in 1987, this bourbon brand prides itself on its commitment to craftsmanship and innovation. It offers a range of expressions that appeal to traditionalists and modern whiskey aficionados.
Bulleit Bourbon’s unique combination of spicy rye notes and smooth finish has made it a staple in bars and liquor cabinets in the U.S., solidifying its position as one of America’s top-selling bourbon brands.
3. Woodford Reserve
Woodford Reserve is synonymous with premium bourbon, renowned for its meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Founded in 1996, this Kentucky distillery produces small-batch bourbon using a combination of copper pot stills and column stills, resulting in a whiskey of exceptional complexity and depth.
Woodford Reserve’s commitment to innovation is evident in its various expressions, from its classic Distiller’s Select to its experimental Master’s Collection releases.
With its rich flavor profile featuring notes of caramel, spice, and oak, Woodford Reserve has earned a devoted following among bourbon connoisseurs nationwide.
4. Knob Creek
Knob Creek is a bourbon brand celebrated for its bold and robust flavor profile, making it a favorite among whiskey enthusiasts seeking a full-bodied experience.
Named after Abraham Lincoln’s childhood home in Kentucky, Knob Creek was introduced by Jim Beam Distillery in 1992 as part of its small-batch bourbon collection.
Crafted with a high rye content and aged for a minimum of nine years, Knob Creek offers a rich and intense palate of caramel, vanilla, and oak, with a long, satisfying finish. Its unwavering commitment to quality and authenticity has earned Knob Creek a dedicated following and a place among America’s best-selling bourbon brands.
5. Basil Hayden
Basil Hayden is a bourbon brand revered for its distinctive and approachable flavor profile, making it an ideal choice for seasoned whiskey aficionados and newcomers to the spirit.
Named after Meredith Basil Hayden, Sr., a distiller who operated in Kentucky in the late 18th century, this bourbon is known for its high-rye mash bill and smooth, light-bodied character.
Basil Hayden offers a versatile drinking experience that appeals to a wide range of palates thanks to its gentle spice notes and subtle sweetness. Its unique flavor profile and storied heritage have contributed to its popularity, earning Basil Hayden a place among the best-selling bourbon brands in the United States.
