The 25 Best Bourbons at Costco, Ranked

Walking into Costco and seeing their bourbon selection can feel like hitting the jackpot. They’ve got everything from budget-friendly bottles to high-end picks that deserve a spot on your shelf. Whether you’re after something smooth for sipping, bold for cocktails, or just a great deal on a quality bottle, there’s plenty to choose from. This list breaks down the best bourbons you can find at Costco, ranked and explained so you know exactly what you’re getting.

25. Angel’s Envy Port Finish

Angel’s Envy Port Finish is a unique bourbon that undergoes secondary maturation in 60-gallon ruby port wine casks from Portugal for three to six months. This finishing process imparts subtle notes of mellow fruit, brown sugar, and vanilla frosting, complemented by hints of peanuts and a touch of smokiness. On the palate, it offers a light, sweet, and slightly dry experience with flavors of peanut butter, dried fruits like apricot and golden raisins, brown sugar, and a hint of oak. The finish is surprisingly lengthy for its 86.6 proof, leaving lingering notes of brown sugar, oak, and dark fruit syrup. Priced around $50, Angel’s Envy provides a distinctive twist on traditional bourbon profiles.

24. Jefferson’s Ocean

Jefferson’s Ocean is a bourbon that embarks on a unique aging journey across the world’s oceans. This maritime voyage exposes the bourbon to constant motion, temperature fluctuations, and sea air, resulting in a distinctive flavor profile. The process aims to enhance the bourbon’s characteristics, imparting subtle saline notes and a rich complexity. Each voyage yields a limited batch, making every release a unique experience for bourbon enthusiasts. Jefferson’s Ocean offers a maritime twist on traditional bourbon, appealing to those seeking an adventurous tasting experience.

23. Kirkland Bottled-In-Bond

Kirkland Bottled-In-Bond is Costco’s private label bourbon, adhering to the strict standards of the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897. This designation ensures the bourbon is aged for at least four years, bottled at 100 proof, and produced in a single distilling season by one distiller at one distillery. Reviewers have noted its fruit-driven nose, reminiscent of banana Laffy Taffy, leading to a palate with balanced sweetness and oak notes. Priced affordably, it offers a quality option for both sipping and mixing, making it a popular choice among Costco shoppers.

22. Willett Pot Still Bourbon

Willett Pot Still Reserve is renowned for its distinctive pot still-shaped bottle, reflecting its unique distillation process. Crafted in small batches, this bourbon offers a nose rich with floral and vanilla notes, leading to a palate featuring flavors of caramel, oak, and a hint of spice. The finish is smooth and lingering, with subtle sweetness and warmth. Its elegant presentation and balanced profile make it a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts seeking both aesthetics and quality.

21. Bulleit Bourbon

Bulleit Bourbon is celebrated for its high-rye mash bill, comprising 68% corn, 28% rye, and 4% malted barley. This composition results in a bold, spicy character with a clean and smooth finish. On the nose, it presents aromas of oak, nutmeg, and light toffee. The palate offers flavors of spice, caramel, and a touch of dried fruit, leading to a finish that is crisp with lingering notes of spice and sweet oak. Its versatility makes it suitable for both sipping neat and crafting classic bourbon cocktails.

20. Maker’s Mark

Maker’s Mark distinguishes itself by using red winter wheat in its mash bill instead of the more common rye, resulting in a softer and sweeter flavor profile. The bourbon is handcrafted in small batches and aged to taste, rather than a specific time frame. It offers a nose of sweet oak, vanilla, and caramel. The palate is rich with flavors of butterscotch, honey, and a hint of spice, leading to a smooth, warm finish. Its iconic red wax-sealed bottle adds to its widespread recognition and appeal.

19. Basil Hayden

Basil Hayden’s Bourbon is known for its high-rye content and approachable flavor profile. Bottled at 80 proof, it offers a light and spicy character. The nose presents aromas of spice, tea, and a hint of peppermint. On the palate, it delivers flavors of spicy rye, sweet vanilla, and a touch of honey. The finish is dry and clean, with a gentle warmth. Its mild proof and balanced flavors make it an excellent choice for those new to bourbon or seeking a lighter option.

18. Buffalo Trace

Buffalo Trace Bourbon is crafted at the historic Buffalo Trace Distillery, known for producing a range of acclaimed whiskeys. This flagship bourbon offers a complex aroma of vanilla, mint, and molasses. The palate is rich and mellow, featuring flavors of brown sugar, spice, and oak. The finish is long and smooth, with notes of toffee and candied fruit. Its balanced profile and consistent quality have earned it numerous awards and a dedicated following among bourbon enthusiasts.

17. Wild Turkey Single Barrel

Wild Turkey Single Barrel is a premium expression from the renowned Wild Turkey Distillery. Selected from individual barrels, each bottle offers a unique tasting experience. The bourbon presents a robust nose of vanilla, caramel, and oak. On the palate, it delivers bold flavors of spice, dark fruit, and toasted nuts. The finish is long and warming, with lingering notes of sweet vanilla and charred oak. Its high proof and depth of flavor make it a favorite among those seeking a more intense bourbon experience.

16. Larceny Barrel Proof

Larceny Barrel Proof is a wheated bourbon released three times a year, often available at Costco. Bottled at over 120 proof, it delivers a bold and full-bodied flavor without compromising balance. The nose offers a heavy hit of spices supported by toasted oak. The palate is multi-layered, featuring caramel, brown sugar, spices, wood notes, and hints of dark fruit, creating a rich and complex drinking experience.

15. Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond

Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond is a 7-year-old bourbon adhering to the Bottled-in-Bond Act’s stringent standards, ensuring quality and consistency. On the nose, it presents rich aromas of dark cherries, caramel, vanilla, and a hint of mild chocolate, complemented by cedar and dry oak notes. The palate offers a balance of sweetness and spice, featuring cherries, caramel, oak, tannins, and white pepper, leading to a long finish with lingering spice and dry oak. This bourbon’s classic profile appeals to enthusiasts seeking traditional flavors. Priced around $40, it offers a compelling option for those appreciating a well-aged, bonded bourbon.

14. Four Roses Single Barrel

Four Roses Single Barrel is distinguished by its high-rye mash bill and unique yeast strains, resulting in a complex and robust flavor profile. The nose reveals a blend of vanilla, citrus, floral undertones, light brown sugar, and a hint of toasted orange. On the palate, it delivers cherry, brown sugar, orange oil, and vanilla cream, balanced by mild tartness and subtle smoke. The finish is long and satisfying, with notes of citrus, vanilla cream, and a touch of pepper. Priced around $40, this bourbon offers exceptional quality and complexity, making it a favorite among connoisseurs.

13. Michter’s US*1 Small Batch

Michter’s US*1 Small Batch Bourbon is crafted in limited quantities to ensure exceptional quality. The nose offers inviting aromas of rich caramel, vanilla, and hints of stone fruit. The palate is well-balanced, featuring flavors of butterscotch, dried apricot, and a touch of spice, leading to a smooth, warm finish with lingering sweetness and gentle oak notes. Its meticulous production process and balanced profile make it a standout choice for bourbon enthusiasts.

12. Baker’s 7-Year Single Barrel

Baker’s 7-Year Single Barrel Bourbon is aged for a minimum of seven years and bottled at 107 proof, offering a robust and full-bodied experience. Each bottle comes from a single barrel, ensuring unique characteristics in every pour. The bourbon presents a nose rich with toasted nuts, vanilla, and a hint of fruit. On the palate, it delivers flavors of caramel, oak, and a touch of dark chocolate, culminating in a warm, lingering finish with notes of spice and sweet oak. Its depth and complexity make it a prized selection for those seeking a distinctive bourbon experience.

11. Woodford Reserve Double Oaked

Woodford Reserve Double Oaked undergoes a unique aging process, where the bourbon is matured in two separate charred oak barrels. This method imparts a rich, full-bodied flavor profile. The nose is characterized by notes of dark caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak. The palate reveals a medley of sweet honey, creamy custard, and hints of dried fruit, balanced by a subtle spiciness. The finish is long and smooth, with lingering flavors of sweet oak and caramel. This bourbon’s innovative production and complex taste make it a standout choice for aficionados.

10. Old Grand-Dad 16-Year

Old Grand-Dad 16-Year is a rare and aged bourbon that offers a rich and complex flavor profile. Aged for 16 years, it presents deep notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, with hints of spice and leather. The extended aging process imparts a smooth and refined character, making it a sought-after choice for bourbon enthusiasts. Its high proof adds a robust and warming finish, enhancing the overall tasting experience. Due to its limited availability, finding this bourbon at Costco is a notable opportunity for collectors and connoisseurs.

9. Elijah Craig Barrel Proof

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof is a highly acclaimed bourbon known for its uncut and unfiltered presentation, offering whiskey enthusiasts a bold and authentic experience. Bottled straight from the barrel, it boasts a high proof, often exceeding 120, delivering intense flavors of rich caramel, toasted oak, and a medley of spices. The nose is greeted with inviting aromas of vanilla, baking spices, and a hint of dark chocolate. On the palate, it reveals a harmonious blend of sweet and spicy notes, complemented by a full-bodied mouthfeel. The finish is long-lasting, with lingering warmth and complexity, making it a favorite among those seeking a robust bourbon experience.

8. Henry McKenna 10-Year Single Barrel

Henry McKenna 10-Year Single Barrel stands out as a Bottled-in-Bond bourbon, aged for a full decade, offering a well-balanced and mature profile. Each bottle originates from a single barrel, ensuring unique nuances in every pour. The aroma presents a delightful mix of caramel, vanilla, and a touch of oak. Tasting reveals layers of honey, toasted nuts, and a subtle spice, leading to a smooth and satisfying finish. Its accolades and consistent quality make it a prized selection for bourbon aficionados.

7. W.L. Weller 12-Year

W.L. Weller 12-Year is a distinguished wheated bourbon, aged for 12 years, offering a smooth and refined tasting experience. The substitution of wheat for rye in the mash bill imparts a softer, sweeter profile. Aromas of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of oak greet the nose. The palate is treated to flavors of rich toffee, honey, and a touch of dark fruit, culminating in a velvety finish. Its limited availability and exceptional quality have garnered it a dedicated following among bourbon enthusiasts.

6. Blanton’s Single Barrel

Blanton’s Single Barrel is renowned as the original single barrel bourbon, offering a unique and premium experience with each bottle. Handpicked from individual barrels, it presents a distinctive flavor profile characterized by notes of caramel, honey, and a hint of citrus. The nose is rich with vanilla and nutmeg, leading to a palate that balances sweetness with subtle spice. The finish is smooth and lingering, with a touch of warmth. Its iconic bottle design and consistent excellence make it a coveted choice for collectors and connoisseurs alike.

5. Eagle Rare 10-Year

Eagle Rare 10-Year is a bourbon that exemplifies masterful aging, offering a complex and refined profile after a decade in oak barrels. The aroma is a harmonious blend of toffee, hints of orange peel, herbs, honey, leather, and oak. On the palate, it delivers bold flavors of candied almonds and rich cocoa, balanced by a dry and lingering finish. Its smoothness and depth make it an excellent choice for both newcomers and seasoned bourbon drinkers. The meticulous aging process ensures a consistently high-quality spirit that stands out in any collection.

4. Booker’s Small Batch

Booker’s Small Batch is a cask-strength bourbon, uncut and unfiltered, offering a robust and full-bodied experience. Each batch is selected by the master distiller, ensuring a unique and high-quality profile. The nose is rich with vanilla, oak, and a hint of smoky char. On the palate, it delivers intense flavors of caramel, nuts, and a bold spice, leading to a warm and enduring finish. Its high proof and depth of character make it a favorite among those seeking a powerful bourbon experience.

3. E.H. Taylor Small Batch

E.H. Taylor Small Batch is a Bottled-in-Bond bourbon, honoring the legacy of Colonel Edmund Haynes Taylor, Jr., a pioneer in the bourbon industry. Crafted from carefully selected barrels, it offers a nose of caramel apples, fresh corn, and butterscotch. The palate is rich with flavors of sweet vanilla, dried fruit, and a hint of black pepper, leading to a well-rounded and balanced finish. Its adherence to traditional methods and exceptional quality make it a standout choice for bourbon enthusiasts.

2. Knob Creek 18-Year

Knob Creek 18-Year is a limited-edition bourbon, celebrating nearly three decades of the brand’s commitment to quality. Aged for 18 years, it offers a deep and complex flavor profile. The nose presents rich caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak, with undertones of dried fruit. On the palate, it delivers robust flavors of toffee, baking spices, and a hint of smoke, culminating in a long and warming finish. Its extended aging process imparts a depth and richness that appeals to connoisseurs seeking a premium bourbon experience.

1. Van Winkle Special Reserve 12-Year

Van Winkle Special Reserve 12-Year, often referred to as “Lot B,” is a wheated bourbon known for its exceptional smoothness and rich flavor. Aged for 12 years, it offers a nose of caramel corn, vanilla, and a hint of oak. The palate is velvety, with flavors of honey, nougat, and a touch of fruit, leading to a long and satisfying finish. Its complexity is enhanced by subtle notes of baking spice, toasted nuts, and a gentle warmth that lingers on the palate. The extended aging process allows the flavors to develop into a well-rounded and refined bourbon that appeals to both casual drinkers and collectors.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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