Bourbon lovers are some of the easiest people to shop for—after all, they share a passion that opens up endless possibilities for gifting. But not all bourbon-themed items are created equal. Whether you’re shopping for a seasoned bourbon connoisseur or someone new to the whiskey world, here’s a curated guide to bourbon-related gifts that will impress (and a few you might want to avoid).
Top Bourbon-Themed Gifts to Buy
- High-Quality Bourbon
- Why It’s Great: Nothing beats gifting an exceptional bottle of bourbon. Aim for limited editions, local distillery exclusives, or highly-rated classics. This gift is ideal if you know the bourbon preferences of the individual. Feel free to ask a drinking friend for ideas on high-quality bourbon gift ideas.
- Pro Tip: If your recipient enjoys trying new things, consider a bottle from a lesser-known craft distillery for a unique experience.
- Bourbon Barrel-Aged Foods
- Great Picks: Bourbon barrel-aged coffee, maple syrup, or hot sauce are fantastic choices. These products capture the essence of bourbon without the alcohol, making them a hit with all kinds of recipients.
- Top Brands: Look for products from Bourbon Barrel Foods or local artisanal makers.
- Whiskey Glassware
- Why It’s a Must-Have: A proper glass enhances the bourbon-drinking experience. Glencairn glasses or crystal rocks glasses with etched designs add elegance to any collection.
- Bonus: Pair the glasses with a clear rock ice maker.
- Bourbon Books
- Perfect For: The history buff or aspiring bourbon aficionado.
- Recommended Reads: Bourbon Empire by Reid Mitenbuler, Tasting Whiskey by Lew Bryson, or a distillery-focused coffee table book like The Bourbon Country Reader.
- Distillery Tour or Tasting Experience
- Why It’s Memorable: A hands-on bourbon experience is the ultimate gift. Book a tour of a famous distillery, or opt for a virtual tasting session for convenience.
- Bourbon-Themed Subscription Boxes
- Example: Flaviar and others offer curated whiskey samples and tasting notes. These subscription boxes are excellent for someone who loves exploring new flavors.
- Barware Essentials
- What to Include: A quality cocktail shaker, a mixing glass, and a jigger are perfect for anyone who enjoys bourbon cocktails. Add bitters and a recipe book for a thoughtful touch.
- Bourbon-Scented Candles
- Why It Works: These candles evoke the comforting notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak without the alcohol. Perfect for non-drinkers or bourbon fans who enjoy the aroma of whiskey.
- Nosing Kits
- Perfect For: Nosing kits are great for dedicated bourbon drinkers. One of the enjoyable aspects of drinking bourbon is identifying aroma and tasting notes. Nosing kits help bourbon drinkers identify aroma notes.
Bourbon Gifts to Avoid
- Whiskey Stones
- Why to Skip: While whiskey stones sound cool, whiskey stones often fail to chill bourbon effectively and can alter the taste and aroma. If you’re set on gifting these, choose high-end soapstone or stainless-steel versions.
- Generic Bourbon Apparel
- The Problem: T-shirts, hats, or socks with tacky slogans like “Whiskey Made Me Do It” might not appeal to everyone. Instead, go for subtle, well-designed items like a vintage-style distillery T-shirt.
- Poor-Quality Bourbon
- Why It’s a Miss: Avoid budget bourbons with poor reviews, as they might leave the recipient underwhelmed. Always research your bottle choices or consult a bourbon expert at your local liquor store. Often your bourbon connoisseur will own the self bourbons they want, avoid buying them something they already have or have intentionally not purchased.
- Unnecessary Gadgets
- Examples: Bourbon smokers, low-quality infusion kits, or overly complicated decanters might seem fun but often end up as clutter. Stick with practical and timeless accessories instead.
- Bourbon-Themed Novelties
- Why to Avoid: Items like bourbon-flavored lip balm or whiskey-scented soap are often gimmicky and may not reflect the recipient’s love for the drink.
How to Personalize Your Gift
- Handwritten Note: Share why you picked the gift and maybe suggest a cocktail recipe or food pairing.
- Customized Packaging: Many distilleries offer engraving or custom labels for bottles, making your gift feel extra special.
Final Thoughts
Bourbon gifts can range from practical to luxurious, but the best ones show thoughtfulness and an understanding of your recipient’s tastes. Stick with high-quality, useful, or experiential items, and steer clear of gimmicky or low-quality products. Whether you’re gifting a premium bottle or a curated bourbon experience, you’re sure to spread holiday cheer with these ideas!
