Discovering Beginner Whiskey Recommendations with Chris Blatner
Whether you’re just beginning to dip your toes into the world of Whiskey or searching for a gift for a loved one, it’s not immediately obvious what makes a good entry-level whiskey. There are many types of whiskey with huge variations in both cost and quality. We recently had a chance to talk about the topic with Chris Blatner, Executive bourbon Steward, Founder of Urban Bourbonist, Executive Director of Bourbon Charity, and host of the Urban Bourbon Hour.
Top Picks for Beginner Whiskey Recommendations
According to Blatner, there are two key recommendations for those new to Bourbon and rye. He suggests:
- Old Grand-Dad Bonded Bourbon (for an upgrade, try Old Grand-Dad 114)
- Rittenhouse Rye (for an upgrade, try Pikesville rye)
These whiskeys are versatile, offering a great experience whether enjoyed neat, with ice or water, or in a cocktail. Blatner highlights these as beginner whiskey recommendations because they provide excellent value and quality comparable to more expensive options.
Understanding Bourbon and Rye
It’s essential to distinguish between bourbon and rye when exploring beginner whiskey recommendations. Bourbon must be made with at least 51% corn, giving it a signature sweetness. On the other hand, rye whiskey must contain at least 51% rye, imparting notes of spicy black pepper. Both Old Grand-Dad Bonded Bourbon and Rittenhouse Rye are excellent examples of their respective categories.
The Appeal of Old Grand-Dad Bonded Bourbon
Old Grand-Dad has been a staple since the 1800s, making it a seasoned choice among beginner whiskey recommendations. The term “bonded” in bourbon means it’s bottled in bond, a historic quality control measure by the U.S. government. This ensures a high standard, as the lack of regulations in the past led to unsafe practices like using shoe polish and tobacco spit in whiskey production.
Rittenhouse Rye: A Bar Staple
Rittenhouse Rye, dating back to the 1930s post-Prohibition era, is another great option among beginner whiskey recommendations. It’s a bottled-in-bond rye, known for its crisp, flavorful, and eminently sippable qualities. While it may not have the same brand recognition as other whiskeys, its presence in a bartender’s arsenal speaks volumes about its quality.
Comparison of Beginner Whiskey Recommendations
| Whiskey | Type | Main Ingredient | Proof |
|---|---|---|---|
| Old Grand-Dad Bonded Bourbon | Bourbon | Corn | 100 |
| Old Grand-Dad 114 | Bourbon | Corn | 114 |
| Rittenhouse Rye | Rye | Rye | 100 |
| Pikesville Rye | Rye | Rye | 110 |
In conclusion, selecting the right entry-level whiskey can be daunting, but with expert recommendations like those from Chris Blatner, the journey becomes enjoyable and rewarding. Both Old Grand-Dad Bonded Bourbon and Rittenhouse Rye stand out as top choices among beginner whiskey recommendations, offering superb quality, affordability, and versatility.
