An Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. While the recipe is simple, the flavor is complex and nuanced. The key to a great Old Fashioned is using high-quality bourbon and following a classic recipe.

But with so many different options available, it’s hard to know which bourbon to go with. Here are five of our favorite bourbons to use for an Old Fashioned:

1. The Easy Sipper: Buffalo Trace

Buffalo Trace is the flagship bourbon from the Buffalo Trace Distillery, which is one of the oldest (if not the oldest) distilleries in the United States. The distillery uses traditional methods and recipes to produce a deep amber-colored whiskey with a complex aroma of vanilla, mint and molasses.

The whiskey is pleasantly sweet on the palate, with notes of brown sugar and spice that give way to oak, toffee, dark fruit and anise. The whiskey finishes long and smooth with serious depth.

Buffalo Trace can be purchased at ReserveBar.

2. The Big Spicy: Bulleit

Founded in 1987, Bulleit Bourbon is one of the fastest-growing whiskeys today. The brand credits that growth to bartenders and cultural partners who have adopted this whiskey as a staple in their bars. The Bulleit Frontier Whiskey portfolio is distilled and aged in the Bulleit family tradition, using a distinctive high rye recipe, which gives them a bold, spicy, yet distinctively smooth taste.

The Bourbon has a medium amber color, with gentle spiciness and sweet oak aromas. Mid-palate is smooth, with notes of maple, oak and nutmeg. The finish is long, dry and satiny with a light toffee flavor. Bulleit Bourbon is bottled at 90 proof with a mash bill comprising 68% corn, 28% rye and 4% malted barley.

Bulleit can be purchased at ReserveBar.

3. Best Bang For Buck: Wild Turkey 101

Wild Turkey 101 is a classic Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey that has been made the same way for over 60 years. It is aged in American White Oak barrels that are coated in alligator char, which gives the bourbon a unique flavor profile. The high rye content and the 101 proof make it a very flavorful whiskey that has a bit of a pleasant bite to it.

The bourbon has won several awards and earned positive reviews, including a 91-point rating from the Beverage Tasting Institute in 2017. But the best part about this particular bourbon is its price point. Wild Turkey 101 retails for less than $30, and is available anywhere liquor is sold, making it very easy to find.

Wild Turkey 101 can be purchased at ReserveBar.

4. The ‘Hard Day’: Knob Creek Single Barrel

At 120 proof, Knob Creek Single Barrel Reserve is perfect for making a strong old-fashioned. The deep and complex flavors of vanilla, nuts and oak will stand up to the robustness of the whiskey, while the long and full finish will make for easy drinking.

Whether you’re winding down after a long day or just enjoying a leisurely evening, Knob Creek Single Barrel Reserve has the kick and flavor that crafts an excellent cocktail.

Knob Creek Single Barrel can be purchased at ReserveBar.

5. The Bougie: Elijah Craig Barrel Proof

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof is a rich, full-flavored bourbon. Aged in new, charred oak barrels, it has a strong caramel aroma with notes of toasted oak and fruit. The Elijah Craig website describes the taste as dominated by vanilla and caramel, with a touch of butterscotch and spices like black pepper and cinnamon. The finish is nicely layered, showcasing all the flavors before fading slowly and lingering as it cools. The proof varies with each batch, but past batches have ranged from 128 to 140.2 proof.

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof has also won numerous awards, including Whiskey of the Year from Whisky Advocate and Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

The Old Fashioned is a classic drink that will never go out of style. And while there are many bourbons you could use to make this drink, we’ve narrowed it down to our top five favorites. Whether you’re looking for something smooth and sweet or rich and smoky, we’ve got you covered.

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof can be purchased at ReserveBar.

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