7 of the Best Whiskey Picks to Elevate Your Top Shelf - Home & Texture
Best Of 2024 Best Whiskey

7 of the Best Whiskeys That Deserve a Spot on Your Top Shelf

From Jack Daniel's to Beyonce's SirDavis, we've tested and approved them all.

October 17, 2024 at 12:08 AM PST
Best Of 2024 Best Whiskey

7 of the Best Whiskeys That Deserve a Spot on Your Top Shelf

From Jack Daniel's to Beyonce's SirDavis, we've tested and approved them all.

October 17, 2024 at 12:08 AM PST

The world of whiskey has undergone a much-needed transformation, pushing far beyond the boundaries of what previous generations knew and appreciated. This beloved spirit has entered an era of unprecedented innovation and diversity, captivating both connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. The whiskey landscape has expanded dramatically, offering an extensive array of flavors, styles, and experiences that were unimaginable just a decade ago.

One of the most intriguing developments in this whiskey revolution is the entrance of celebrities into the market. A prime example is Beyoncรฉ’s introduction of SirDavis, a whiskey that boldly challenges long-held conventions. This celebrity-backed spirit showcases innovative approaches to aging, finishing, and ingredient selection, demonstrating how the industry is evolving beyond traditional methods.

The expansion of the whiskey market in recent years has been nothing short of extraordinary. Whiskey enthusiasts now have access to an impressive range of options that cater to diverse palates and preferences. From bourbons aged in unique environments to artisanal ryes and meticulously crafted single malts, the choices available are both varied and of remarkable quality.

This surge in variety has been accompanied by a notable increase in overall quality across the board. Distillers, both established and newcomers, are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in whiskey production. They’re experimenting with different grains, yeast strains, and aging techniques, resulting in spirits with complex flavor profiles and unique characteristics.

Each whiskey mentioned has been thoroughly tested and approved by our team, ensuring that they truly represent the pinnacle of what modern whiskey has to offer.

Keep reading ahead as we break down the best whiskeys you need to know and love.

Best of Whiskey
Photo credit: Lucian Smoot

Best Whiskeys of 2024

Best Overall:

Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey

  • Rating: 10/10

I could be bias because this is my home state, but there’s nothing better than Tennessee Whiskey. Even Better? Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey. This truly changed my mind about the possibilities of being a whiskey drinker. It’s smooth and sweet and can be served neat, on rocks or dressed in a Hot Toddy.

Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey

Jack Daniel's Tennessee Honey offers a unique flavor profile. This innovative spirits blend combines the classic Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey with a sweet honey liqueur. The result is a distinctive and smooth beverage that maintains the signature Jack Daniel's character while introducing a touch of sweetness.

Best Bourbon

William Larue Weller 2023

  • Rating: 9/10

Listen, this is a splurge whiskey. Honestly, when drinking any sort of brown spirit, be prepared to dig deep into your wallet. However, this William Larue Weller option is totally worth it. You’re not just paying for the drink, you’re paying for the craftsmanship of the bottle. That’s a penny worth investing.

William Larue Weller

This sophisticated spirit, bottled at barrel proof, offers a sensory journey with a complex bouquet of pepper, oak, leather and caramel. On the palate, it presents a rich entry with warm honey notes, evolving into flavors of caramel, roasted almonds, figs and dates.

Best Celebrity Brand

SirDavis American Rye Whisky from Beyoncรฉ Knowles-Carter

  • Rating: 10/10

Next to Jack Daniels Tennessee Honey, we’re rocking with Beyonce’s SirDavis Rye Whiskey. In my professional opinion, this whiskey is best sipped neat. Only then can you enjoy the different layers this spirit has to offer. I promise it’s a smooth ride.

SirDavis American Rye Whiskey

The SirDavis whiskey merges the intricate flavors of rye with the refined qualities of malted barley. Its maturation process involves Pedro Ximรฉnez sherry casks, culminating in a well-balanced fusion of piquant and fruity notes that unfold with every taste.

Best Scotch Whiskey

Johnnie Walker Blue Label Blended Scotch

  • Rating: 10/10

From what reality television has told us, Johnnie Walker’s Blue label is a great housewarming or olive branch gift. This whiskey sits on the bar cart of every true whiskey drinker โ€” but make sure you invest in the Blue Label Blended Scotch, as per our notes.

Johnnie Walker Blue Label

This blend is meticulously created using a selection of rare and carefully chosen whiskeys sourced from various regions across Scotland. The result is a remarkably smooth and complex spirit that exemplifies the artistry of fine Scotch production.

Best Japanese Whiskey

Fuji Japanese Whiskey

  • Rating: 9/10

Fuji Japanese Whiskey, crafted at the Fuji Gotemba Distillery, embodies Mt. Fuji’s essence. The spirit’s distillery stands out for producing multiple whiskey styles: American bourbon, Canadian rye, Scottish grain, and 100% malted barley.

Fuji Japanese Whiskey

Japanese whiskey, like Scotch, uses malted barley and long aging, but often in Mizunara oak, giving unique spicy and citrusy notes. For this whiskey its palate features vanilla, marshmallow, caramel, and dried mango, with complex hints of black pepper and jalapeรฑo.

Best Budget:

Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

  • Rating: 10/10

As an entry-level option, this bourbon allows you to explore a taste of whiskey without a significant financial investment. It’s a great choice for those looking to dip their toes into the world of bourbon or for enthusiasts seeking an everyday sipper that won’t break the bank.

Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a complex spirit featuring notes of vanilla, toffee and candied fruit. This well-balanced bourbon appeals to both enthusiasts and casual drinkers with its smooth taste and rich flavor profile.

Best Rye

Rittenhouse Rye Whiskey

  • Rating: 9/10

This whiskey has gained a reputation as a cocktail rye, but it’s equally enjoyable neat. As a Kentucky-style rye with minimal rye content, it shares similarities with bourbon.

Rittenhouse Rye Whiskey

The palate is where this whiskey truly shines. Dark berry flavors mix with rye spiciness, revealing its sweeter side. Notes of milk chocolate, toasted oak, vanilla, and caramel are evident.

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