Bourbon has always been a story of grain, wood, and time. But in 2025, a quiet revolution is taking place—one that doesn’t start in the rickhouse or the still, but in the soil. Across Kentucky and beyond, distillers are rethinking what it means to make a truly authentic bourbon. They’re asking questions that go deeper than proof or age: Where did our corn come from? Who grew it, and how was the land treated? Does the soil itself shape the flavor in the glass? This new wave of

Whether you're a bourbon beginner or a seasoned sipper, curating the right bottles at the start of your collection sets the tone for an enjoyable, educational journey. This guide covers two essential categories: classic bourbons to build your foundation and innovative blending house selections that represent the future of American whiskey. Part 1: 10 Classic Bourbons to Start Your Collection 1. Buffalo Trace A balanced bourbon with notes of vanilla, caramel, and light spice.