How do you pick the best gift for the bourbon lover in your life?
Maybe you’re looking for something fun for a new bourbon enthusiast. Or maybe you want to surprise a bourbon connoisseur who already has everything bourbon-related.
Finding the perfect gift can be difficult. There are so many options out there, it’s hard to know what to buy.
But have no fear. This bourbon lover’s gift guide has you covered — from a great bottle of bourbon to accessories and gift sets.
I’ve curated this list based on my nearly 6 years of experience writing about bourbon (and many many more drinking it). We’ve researched and tested tons of gifts to create the ultimate resource for bourbon gifts.
This page contains affiliate links. If you proceed to purchase certain items, we get a commission at no extra cost to you. But rest assured, this doesn’t influence our recommendations.
Best Gifts for Bourbon Lovers: Ideas, Sets, and Accessories
Keeping your budget in mind, let’s look at 10 different categories of bourbon gifts.
- A great bottle of bourbon
- A whiskey smoker
- A whiskey infusion kit
- A bourbon gift basket
- Glass sets
- Decanters
- Bitters
- Home Bar Accessories
- Books
- Chocolates
1. A Great Bottle of Bourbon
Under $30: Early Times Bottled-in-Bond
This bourbon offers a classic profile with more character than many others in this price range. At 100 proof, it delivers a robust flavor that’s hard to beat for the price. It’s aged for at least four years, ensuring a rich and mature taste. This is the best value in bourbon, and you can’t get better than $25 for 1L. It’s a versatile bourbon that’s great for both sipping and mixing.
Under $50: Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Known for its balanced flavor profile, Woodford Reserve is versatile enough for both sipping and cocktails. The distillery’s historic roots and meticulous production process add to its appeal. With its smooth character and approachable price point around $37, it’s a reliable choice that any bourbon enthusiast will appreciate.
Under 100: Elijah Craig Barrel Proof
Known for its bold and intense flavor, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof is a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts. The high proof and uncut, unfiltered nature provide a robust and full-bodied experience. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a strong bourbon. Consistently praised as one of the best bottles you can buy under $100, it balances sweet and spicy notes with pronounced flavors of brown sugar, caramel, and more.
2. A Whiskey Smoker
Aged and Charred
Aged and Charred is the ultimate gift for someone who loves crafting smoky drinks, especially Old Fashioneds.
It’s easy to use –just load up those wood chips, light it up, and get yourself a cocktail that costs $15+ at a fancy bar. The wood chips give your drink a smoky vibe without leaving it high and dry.
Not only does it bring a touch of style to a home bar or man cave, but they also have a bigger version (in a barrel) lets you smoke up to three drinks simultaneously.
This is always on our best gifts list, and people love it. I use it myself, and my guests always enjoy the unique flavor it adds to their drink. Gift Aged and Charred for a fun and flavorful drinking experience!
3. A Whiskey Infusion Kit
Aged And Charred
If the bourbon lover in your life likes to experiment with bourbon like a mad scientist or use infinity bottles, the Aged and Charred Whiskey Infusion Kit is where it’s at. This bad boy gives you a 750ml vessel, a removable base with an infusion filter, and six cool flavors to play with. Dump in those generous containers of dried orange peel, cinnamon, oak, cherry, pecan, and peach wood chips that come with it, or mix it up with your own flavor experiments.
Now, let’s talk practical stuff. I tried it myself and the best part is experimenting with the wood chips and how long you let the bourbon sit in the infusion kit.
It can easily help you elevate an already great bottle with your favorite flavor notes or even help you take a $15 bottle and transform it into something that tastes like a $30-$40 bottle.
The Aged and Charred kit is the ideal gift for someone who enjoys experimenting with whiskey flavors.
DO Your Whisky DIY Infusion Kit
If you know someone who wants to take their bourbon game to the next level, the DO YOUR WHISKY DIY Infusion Kit is an absolute game-changer. This comprehensive kit gives you everything you need to craft your own signature spirit right at home.
Here’s what makes it awesome: You get 12 glass vials packed with 3 types of wood chips and 6 different botanicals—we’re talking chai, bird’s eye chili, Vanilla Dream, and American Sweetheart. Plus, it includes 2 empty bottles with customizable labels and wooden corks, 6 stainless steel whiskey stones to keep your drink cold without watering it down, and a recipe guide to get you started.
The beauty of this kit is the experimentation. You can mix and match 100% natural, freshly-sourced botanicals and wood chips to create flavor combinations that are totally unique to your taste. Simply add 350mL of your favorite whiskey to the bottle, toss in your chosen ingredients, seal it up, and let it work its magic for 2-4 weeks. Filter out the wood chips and boom—you’ve got a custom-crafted spirit that’ll impress anyone who tries it.
The entire kit is plastic-free, climate neutral, and handcrafted in the USA, so you’re sipping sustainably while creating something special.
This is the perfect gift for bourbon enthusiasts who love getting creative with their spirits and want to make something truly their own.
4. A Bourbon Gift Basket
A Bite of Bourbon basket
A Bite of Bourbon Kit has 50ml bottles of Knob Creek, Bulleit Bourbon, Elijah Craig, Larceny, and Maker’s Mark. You also get a reusable tin, an 11 oz tumbler, and they even throw in a Coca-Cola with a bottle of Woodford Reserve for mixin’ or chasin’. And let’s not forget the snacks – Snyder’s Pretzels and Popcornopolis Gourmet Flavored Popcorn for when those late-night munchies hit. It’s an awesome gift for bourbon enthusiasts who want to try several of the biggest brands all at once.
The Ultimate Whiskey Sampler
Instead of going basic, The Ultimate Whiskey Sampler went all out, gathering up “every whiskey worth trying,” featuring classics like Johnnie Walker Red, Johnnie Walker Black, and Makers Mark, alongside surprises such as Bulleit Bourbon, Glenfiddich 12-year, and Glenlivet 12-year. It’s a mix that’s so diverse, ensuring a tasting experience filled with both familiar favorites and delightful discoveries.
This gift also comes with some extra goodies. You’re all set for those late-night munchies with two cones of Popcornopolis Gourmet Flavored Popcorn and a pack of Brookside Chocolates. No ice included, but they threw in an 11oz BroBasket tumbler, making it a well-rounded package for a thoroughly enjoyable whiskey experience. If you want to gift a sampler that has it all (including whiskeys that aren’t bourbon), this is the one.
5. Glass Sets
The Glencairn Glass $15
Bourbon lovers everywhere swear by the Glencairn Whiskey Glass because it’s designed specifically for tasting.
This glass’s shape funnels the aromas right to your nose, so you can soak in all the richness of your bourbon. Trying a top-notch bourbon with a Glencairn makes you like an official bourbon taster.
It’s all about savoring those smaller sips – a game-changer if, like me, you used to feel the burn from taking too big a gulp. This glass is perfect for someone just getting into bourbon tasting or as a replacement for those who already have a collection.
Grab this set as a gift if you know someone who appreciates the nuances of bourbon and likes tasting higher end bottles.
Riedel O Wine Tumbler Whisky Glasses $39
For bourbon lovers who appreciate premium glassware, the Riedel O Wine Tumbler Whisky Glasses are an excellent choice. These stemless crystal glasses from the renowned Austrian glassmaker feature clean, elegant lines and a thin, lead-free glass body.
Each glass holds 15.17 ounces and stands 3.94 inches tall, making them perfect for bourbon on the rocks, cocktails, or even neat pours. The machine-made quality ensures consistency, and they’re dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.
Riedel’s reputation for quality and the versatile design make these glasses suitable for everyday use or special occasions.
The Libbey Glass $40
Now, if you want to explore more options other than the Glencairn glass, the Libbey Signature Kentucky Bourbon Trail Whiskey Glasses are a great alternative.
While the Glencairn emphasizes smaller sips, the Libbey Glass can be used for tasting or casual drinking.
It’s like having the best of both worlds – your classic rocks glass and a specialized bourbon-tasting one.
What makes these glasses really stand out is their quality. Reviews are talking about how tough and well-made they are, and I totally agree. That’s a big deal because a lot of glasses on Amazon can be flimsy and break if you’re not super careful, especially with big ice balls.
Norlan Whiskey Glass
If you’re looking for a gift that’s both innovative and stylish, the Norlan Whiskey Glass won’t fail you.
This double-walled glass is engineered to maximize your bourbon-tasting experience. The unique shape and double-walled construction of the Norlan Glass help to aerate the bourbon as you swirl—releasing the complex aromas that you might otherwise miss with a traditional glass. The inner wall is scientifically shaped to concentrate the aroma, while the outer wall remains sleek and modern.
The Norlan Whiskey Glass has a carefully crafted shape that reduces ethanol burn on the nose, so you can enjoy more subtle flavors without the sharpness. The double wall also keeps your bourbon at a stable temperature while preventing condensation—no need to worry about slippery hands or water rings on your table.
For the bourbon connoisseur who values both form and function, the Norlan Whiskey Glass makes each sip an elevated experience. It’s an impressive gift for someone who enjoys savoring bourbon with all their senses.
Maketh the Man Premium Art Deco Whiskey Glass Set $60
This fantastic Maketh the Man Premium Art Deco Whiskey Glass Set also made it to the list for several reasons.
You get a classy decanter with two cool glasses. The decanter looks really fancy with its glass seal, especially when you fill it up with your favorite drink. The glasses are just the right weight, not too heavy but still nice.
Overall, the whole set looks pretty slick, and the packaging is decent, making it feel like you’re getting more than what you paid for. You’d probably pay almost $100 for a similar decanter and two glasses if you bought them separately. So, this set is not just good-looking, it’s a smart buy.
It’s a nice present for the bourbon lover in your life who likes a touch of class in their drinkware.
6. Decanters
Lefonte Whiskey Decanter $25
So, let’s talk about the Lefonte Whiskey Decanter – a cool crystal bottle with a fancy top that keeps your bourbon tasting great.
It’s only $25, so it’s a good deal without sacrificing quality. Made from safe materials, it feels solid and well-made, giving your whiskey setup an upgrade without spending a lot.
This decanter is perfect for your home bar, office, or just hanging out in the living room. It’s not expensive, but it looks good and does the job. Get this as a gift if you’re looking for something affordable, stylish, and makes someone’s whiskey setup better without spending too much.
Lighten Life Whiskey Decanter $30
Meet the Lighten Life Whiskey Decanter – it’s the cool, affordable way to add a dash of style and class to your home bar. Topped off with a beautiful “glass on glass” topper, this Italian-crafted decanter goes a bit bigger at 29 oz, giving you plenty of space for your go-to bourbon, scotch, or even brandy.
If the bourbon lover in your life likes making their drinks look fancy and often uses decanters, this one makes for a thoughtful gift. It looks cool, plus there’s plenty of room for their favorite drinks.
Regal Trunk Whiskey Decanter Set with Glasses $80
The Regal Trunk Whiskey Decanter Set is a classy and high-end choice at $80, perfect for those who want something fancy and valuable. Whether you’re just starting your collection or want to match your current glasses, this set has you covered.
This set is perfect for someone in need of glassware and like classy looking things.
7. Bitters
REGANS Regan’s Orange Bitters No.6, 5 FZ
I recently gave Regan’s Orange Bitters a whirl, and it jazzed up my bourbon game.
The orange kick is lively and zesty, giving my cocktail that citrusy pop. But what makes these bitters cool is the sneaky hints of spice and herbs. It’s like a little party in every sip, adding some depth and balance to the orange kick.
These bitters don’t shout “orange,” but they sneak in and give your drink a subtle complexity boost. They really shine in a classic Old Fashioned – just throw them in before you shake or stir, and you’re in for a treat. It’s perfect for folks who want to make cocktails like Old Fashioneds and enjoy a citrusy kick with a touch of spice.
Angostura Aromatic Bitters
Angostura Aromatic Bitters is a timeless cocktail companion with roots dating back to the 1800s.
Originally made for upset stomachs, it found its true calling in cocktails. Classics like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan just wouldn’t be the same without a dash of Angostura.
It completes a drink with just 4 to 10 drops per serving and lasts long. But, a heads up – the artificial coloring can stain surfaces, which knocked off a star in my book. Despite that, the bitters bring a delightful taste and a subtle depth of flavor to any drink. It’s a nice gift for someone who want to make classic cocktails like Old Fashioneds or Manhattans with a timeless touch.
Bittercube Cherry Bark Vanilla Bitters
Perfect for a variety of drinks, Bittercube Cherry Bark Vanilla Bitters hits that sweet spot between cherry and bitterness, making it a great addition to your cocktail lineup. It brings a cool, woodsy vibe with a unique mix of scents and flavors that adds a bit of exotic flair. Think cocoa, bitter almonds, and subtle notes of vanilla, fennel, and star anise.
You can use more than a few drops – it’s perfect for prolonging the experience, especially in an old fashioned. The finish? It sticks around for nearly a minute, making these bitters a fantastic way to amp up the complexity of your favorite drinks. Consider giving this to someone who want to make cocktails with a unique mix of flavors, particularly those who enjoy Old Fashioneds with an exotic twist.
18.21 Bitters Gift Set
18.21 Bitters Gift Set is perfect for adding depth and creativity to bourbon cocktails. This set includes a variety of premium bitters, syrups, and mixers—from Old Fashioneds to Manhattans.
What makes this gift set stand out is its range of flavors. You’ll get options like Prohibition Aromatic Bitters, Havana & Hide, and Barrel Aged Havana. The syrups, like the Tonic Syrup and Ginger Beer Syrup, also allow your bourbon lover to create complex cocktails right at home without needing a full bar setup.
These bitters enhance the flavor profile of classic cocktails and offer a fun way for any bourbon enthusiast to experiment with new recipes. The packaging itself is sleek and stylish. If your bourbon lover friend has a home bar, they will be proud of this gift set.
El Guapo Craft Cocktail Gift Box
The El Guapo Craft Cocktail Gift Box is a top-notch choice for bourbon lovers who enjoy mixing cocktails. It includes handcrafted mixers that can turn any ordinary bourbon drink into something special.
Also, this gift box has all-natural ingredients! Every mixer is made from high-quality, non-GMO ingredients to ensure the best possible flavors.
This gift box is perfect for creating signature cocktails like a Bourbon Smash or a Bourbon Sour. The mixers are versatile too—whether adding a splash of flavor to your bourbon or using them in non-alcoholic drinks, they’re bound to impress your friend.
Plus, the elegant packaging makes it a great gift for anyone who values quality and craftsmanship in their drinks.
8. Home Bar Accessories
Bar carts
VASAGLE Bar Cart Gold
This two-tier cart is not only roomy but also a stylish hub for your favorite spirits like bourbon, whiskey, and rum.
The gold frame, mirrored shelves, and gracefully curved handle bring a touch of chic to your bar area, dining room, or kitchen. If you are looking for a West Elm dupe, this is the one! While the gold finish might be a bit different – a more matte look and a slight color variance from the picture – it’s still a sleek addition.
Putting it together is a breeze, with step-by-step instructions, labeled parts, and tools included. It will take you less than an hour to assemble this cart. Also, don’t worry about the mirrors included in the packaging; they’re extra thick and securely packaged for a smooth delivery.
OKZEST 3 Tier Bar Cart
Crafted to last, the OKZEST 3-Tier Bar Cart is where vintage wood meets classic iron art. It’s a cool statement piece perfect for your minibar or hosting a lively dinner party.
It is made from sturdy 0.7″ thick wood and alloy steel, holding up to 150 lbs. The side railing keeps everything in place, making it a stylish addition to your home bar, living room, kitchen, or any space you fancy.
In practical terms, it’s easy to assemble, glides around effortlessly, and pairs well with various decors. The industrial vibe is a win, but the cart’s height might need some creative organization if you have taller glassware or bottles. Consider placing those towering bottles on the bottom shelf for a perfect fit.
Pictures
Tailored Canvases Bar Sign Custom Decor
Nothing says thoughtful like a personalized gift, right? The Tailored Canvases Bar Sign Custom Decor is where it’s at!
It’s printed with UV-resistant ink to keep the design vibrant for the long haul. But here’s the coolest part – the personalization process. The seller sends you a confirmation file before they hit the print button. It’s your chance to make sure the font, layout, and everything else is spot-on.
Now, for the practical stuff – it’s water-resistant and easy to clean. Remember that this canvas sign prefers the indoors, so don’t hang it in the great outdoors.
Pyradecor Cigar Wine Whisky Canvas Prints Wall Art
Transform your space with the Pyradecor Cigar Wine Whisky Canvas Prints Wall Art – a four-panel masterpiece that’s all about elevating your home decor game.
The quality exceeded expectations, with each image practically popping off the canvas. The colors are also a standout feature – deep, rich, and well-defined. It has a nice sheen, adding to the overall appeal.
Size-wise, you’re looking at 30x30cm for each of the four pieces, providing a good balance. Hanging them up is a breeze – a simple nail or Velcro command strips will do the trick for easy adjustments.
Ice makers
Euhomy Clear Ice Making Machine
Clear ice is a big deal for bourbon lovers. It’s pure, doesn’t have weird bubbles, melts slower, and just looks satisfying. But the struggle to make it at home is real. Enter the Euhomy Clear Ice Making Machine – a compact countertop wonder that effortlessly produces ample, crystal-clear ice cubes for your drinks.
In terms of output, this machine delivers 24 clear ice cubes approximately every 12-18 minutes, defying its modest size. Users appreciate the user-friendly water reservoir and ice basket. Filling the machine is a breeze, and retrieving the perfectly formed ice cubes is just as easy.
If you know someone who loves top-quality clear ice in their drinks, especially those into making fancy cocktails at home, this machine can be a fantastic gift to buy.
Premium Berlinzo Clear Ice Ball Maker
Ditch the boring ice cubes and step up your drink game with the Premium Berlinzo Clear Ice Ball Maker. This cool gadget brings a touch of sophistication, creating crystal-clear 2.4-inch spheres that make your drinks look and taste top-notch.
What’s cool about it? It’s made from safe BPA-free silicone, making ice removal a breeze. The canister keeps things cool without cracking the cubes, and while it’s not automatic, just fill it, freeze it for up to 24 hours, and voila! After a few batches, you’ll have nearly flawless spheres – a touch of class for your drinks that lasts surprisingly long in bourbon.
Mixology equipment
Mixology & Craft Bartender Kit: 10-Piece Bar Tool Set
Elevate your drink-making game with the Mixology & Craft Bartender Kit – a 10-piece set that turns you into a cocktail pro.
Made with sturdy stainless steel, this set is tough and can handle the dishwasher, ensuring it sticks around. The bamboo stand not only keeps your tools organized but also adds a touch of eco-chic. No more rummaging through drawers – flaunt your kit’s good looks with that cool bamboo stand.
Beyond the practicality, this set looks good, with each tool having its own special spot. The shaker cup might be a tad smaller than you thought, but it can handle two drinks simultaneously.
Modern Mixology Cocktail Shaker Set – 24 Piece
Revamp your cocktail game with the Modern Mixology Cocktail Shaker Set – a 24-piece collection that covers all your mixing needs. From a sturdy liquor shaker to a muddler, ice tongs, and more, this stainless steel set is designed for durability and organization.
Craft your favorite drinks with the included recipe cards and become a home mixologist. The set caters to both beginners and pros, making it a versatile addition to any bar.
The wood stand is a nice touch and adds a bit of class. It’s not the fanciest, but it does the trick. Perfect gift for someone needing an upgrade in their drink game.
Misc
Swag Brewery Bourbon Whiskey Brew Candle
I recently got my hands on the Swag Brewery Bourbon Whiskey Brew Candle, and there’s more to it than meets the eye.
It’s an 8oz gem, made from a soy wax blend that burns for over 40 hours.
The candle is inspired by the fantastic notes of bourbon, giving off hints of richness, pepperiness, and a touch of oakiness. Plus, it won’t make your place smell like stale beer or some overpowering scent – it’s just right.
The glass is smooth to the touch, and gives off a cozy glow. One small quibble could be the size relative to the price, but the novelty factor is worth considering.
Runamok Organic Bourbon Barrel Aged Maple Syrup
The Runamok Organic Bourbon Barrel Aged Maple Syrup takes your taste buds on a journey.
This dark amber syrup strikes a sweet spot – not too light or too dark – making it a tasty addition to your kitchen adventures. Unlike regular store-bought kinds, the syrup’s thinner consistency doesn’t skimp on flavor.
And here’s a bonus – the syrup comes with a recipe card. We tried it over vanilla ice cream with some pecans, and now we’re seeing sundaes in a whole new light.
Whiskey Ball
Every bourbon lover knows that the right ice can make all the difference.
The Whiskey Ball is a clever gadget that creates large, transparent, slow-melting ice spheres that are perfect for chilling bourbon without watering it down. The slower melt keeps your bourbon cool while preserving the rich flavors for a longer, more enjoyable bourbon experience.
What sets the Whiskey Ball apart is its ability to produce crystal-clear ice. The large spheres look impressive and melt more slowly than regular ice cubes.
This is an excellent gift for someone who enjoys their bourbon on the rocks but doesn’t want their drink diluted. It’s practical, sleek, and adds a touch of elegance to their bourbon-drinking experience.
Bourbon Nosing Kit
Train your nose to find the nuances in bourbon with this essential tasting tool. The Bourbon Nosing Kit contains 18 authentic aroma samples in screw-top containers, featuring natural ingredients like vanilla, caramel, oak, leather, mint, cherry, and various spices. These aren’t synthetic lab-created scents—they’re made from real ingredients for the most authentic experience.
Sensory scientists have proven that over 80% of what we taste comes from what we smell, making this kit an invaluable tool for bourbon enthusiasts. Simply nose an element, then your bourbon, take a sip, and nose again—the aromas present will be amplified, helping you identify specific notes like vanilla, honey, brown sugar, cinnamon, or black pepper.
The kit includes a bourbon tasting wheel, step-by-step instructions, and a convenient travel case—perfect for bringing to bourbon tastings or bottle shares with friends. It’s an excellent gift for someone looking to develop their palate and elevate their bourbon appreciation beyond just saying “it tastes good
9. Books
The Bourbon Tasting Notebook, 2nd Edition
The Bourbon Tasting Notebook, 2nd Edition is like a personal diary for your taste buds, making it easy to track nearly 350 brands of bourbon. It comes pre-filled with pictures, mashbills, prices, descriptions, and tasting notes for every bourbon featured. The authors have personally tried each one, making it a must-have for serious bourbon enthusiasts.
It’s like having a bourbon field guide. When I spot a new bourbon, I flip through to see what Reigler and Veach have to say about it. It’s become my go-to before deciding to buy a bottle.
American Whiskey, Bourbon & Rye: A Guide to the Nation’s Favorite Spirit
Getting American Whiskey, Bourbon & Rye: A Guide to the Nation’s Favorite Spirit is like having a whiskey encyclopedia at my fingertips. Featuring over 330 whiskeys, it’s neatly organized by the distillery, offering a brief history of each with detailed accounts of every bottling, including age, proof, nose, body, and price. It even delves into the history of each spirit and provides tips on savoring them properly.
The introductory section provides a fascinating dive into the history of bourbon. It covers virtually all the bourbons you’d typically find in stores, making it an excellent reference. Plus, the presentation is top-notch, making it informative and visually appealing.
Bourbon Empire: The Past and Future of America’s Whiskey
The Bourbon Empire: The Past and Future of America’s Whiskey brings you to a fascinating journey through the history of the bourbon industry. Beginning with the Whiskey Rebellion of 1794, the book dispels myths and delves into the intricate tales of major players like Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark.
What makes it a page-turner is how it weaves bourbon into broader American history – thoughtfully, who knew it played such a role?
I’d recommend it to anyone getting into bourbon, history buffs, or those who’ve been sipping it for ages.
Bourbon & Bacon Cookbook
The Bourbon & Bacon Cookbook is a perfect gift for a bourbon lover/bacon addict.
This cookbook is packed with mouthwatering recipes that combine two of the South’s favorite flavors—bourbon and bacon. From savory dishes to sweet treats, it offers creative ways to combine these bold ingredients.
Inside, you’ll find recipes from bourbon-glazed bacon appetizers to decadent bourbon-infused desserts. The Bourbon & Bacon Cookbook is a sure winner for someone looking for a culinary adventure.
The Best Bourbon Cookbook: Booze-Infused Sweet & Savory Recipes
As they say, “Everything tastes better with bourbon!”
That’s why “The Best Bourbon Cookbook: Booze-Infused Sweet & Savory Recipes” is a gift that won’t disappoint. It’s full of bourbon-infused recipes that will take your cooking to the next level. Need a bourbon-infused breakfast? Dinner? Or dessert? You can learn creative ways to do that with this cookbook.
As the title suggests, the book has both sweet and savory recipes, so you can start with bourbon-glazed meats or bourbon-spiked sauces and finish with decadent bourbon desserts.
Each recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for home chefs who want to add a splash of bourbon to their cooking.
The Lost History of Tennessee Whiskey by Drew Hannush
For the bourbon (and whiskey) lover who enjoys diving deep into the history of their favorite spirits, The Lost History of Tennessee Whiskey by Drew Hannush is a fascinating read.
Written by the host of the popular Whiskey Lore Podcast, this book uncovers the untold and entertaining history of Tennessee whiskey.
In this book, Hannush takes readers on a journey through the forgotten stories and key figures that helped shape the whiskey industry in Tennessee. From the early days of distilling to the legends behind famous brands, the book has fascinating facts, compelling storytelling, and a deep appreciation for whiskey-making.
Bourbon: The Rise, Fall and Rebirth of an American Whiskey by Fred Minnick
Like the previous book, “Bourbon: The Rise, Fall, and Rebirth of an American Whiskey” by Fred Minnick is a must-read for a bourbon/history lover. As a true icon in the bourbon world, Minnick offers an in-depth look at the fascinating journey of bourbon—from its early days, through Prohibition, to its resurgence as a beloved American spirit.
The book doesn’t just focus on the spirit itself but also highlights the people, politics, and culture that influenced Bourbon’s rise, fall, and ultimate rebirth. It’s an engaging and informative addition to any bourbon lover’s collection.
The Big Book of Bourbon Cocktails: 100 Timeless, Creative & Tempting Recipes
Elevate your spirits with 100 cocktails that take bourbon to the next level! If you’re a bourbon aficionado—or an aspiring one—this is your essential guide to savoring the quintessential American liquor. From a traditional Old Fashioned to a Churchill Downs Crusta, take a sip of 100 cocktail recipes that incorporate a variety of bourbons, regions, and time periods.
This cocktail book is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a solo nightcap, pre-dinner drinks for two, or batch cocktails for a crowd. You’ll learn to whip up the perfect bourbon recipes while exploring trendy new flavors and long-forgotten recipes from the Prohibition era.
What makes this book special? Every cocktail is catalogued based on flavor profile—including savory, tart, hot, frosty, fruity, decadent, and party punches. You’ll also learn to make your own grenadines, syrups, and garnishes to truly impress your guests. Plus, the book includes educational content about how bourbon is made, what makes it great, the correct terminology, and its fascinating history.
With a 4.8-star rating from over 1,200+ reviews and currently on sale, this is an excellent gift for bourbon lovers who want to expand their cocktail-making skills.
10. Bourbon Chocolates
Ruth Hunt Candies Bourbon Confections
Ruth Hunt Candies Bourbon Confections are the perfect gift for a sweet twist on bourbon. These rich, bourbon-infused chocolates let you experience bourbon in an entirely new form.
These decadent whiskey confections appeared in the early 1900s, and for decades, Ruth Hunt Candies worked to perfect the craft of making Bourbon Chocolates. You can have bourbon balls, caramels, or creams—each bite delivers a perfect mix of smooth chocolate and the bold flavors of bourbon.
The chocolates are also beautifully packaged, making them an excellent gift for bourbon lovers with a sweet tooth!
Ritual Chocolate Bourbon Barrel Aged Chocolate
For a truly unique bourbon gift, look no further than the Ritual Chocolate Bourbon Barrel Aged Dark Chocolate.
The Ritual Chocolate Bourbon Barrel Aged Chocolate is perfect for bourbon lovers who also appreciate rich, high-quality dark chocolate. The 75% dark chocolate is aged in fresh, emptied bourbon barrels from High West Distillery. High West is one of their local whiskey distilleries in Park City and is the go-to whiskey for those who want a little taste of the high mountain west.
The chocolate absorbs the subtle yet complex flavors of bourbon. You’ll get subtle notes of the charred, white American Oak and light hints of bourbon whiskey. The chocolate tastes slightly “softer around the edges” and has a pleasant aroma and aftertaste.
Pair it with your favorite bourbon or gift it on its own—either way, it’s sure to be a memorable experience for a bourbon lover. Be warned, this chocolate is extremely limited. And if you want to impress your bourbon-loving friend, you should get yours now!
Rebecca Ruth Bourbon & Liquor Chocolates
Rebecca Ruth has been crafting some of the finest bourbon and liquor chocolates for over a century.
These chocolates are infused with real Kentucky bourbon, offering a perfect balance between the rich, smooth taste of chocolate and the warm, bold flavors of bourbon.
It’s the ideal combination of two timeless Kentucky traditions — bourbon and fine chocolate.
How to Pick Gifts for Bourbon Lovers in Your Life
1. Does the person have bar equipment?
While it might seem simple enough to just grab a bottle of bourbon and a glass to drink it from, the bourbon-tasting experience changes depending on the bar setup you use.
While you could just pour bourbon into any old glass, your favorite bourbon enthusiast probably has a few different sets of glassware just for this purpose.
You might consider:
- A Glencairn whiskey glass
- A mint julep cup
- A double-wall stainless steel bourbon glass
- A crystal bourbon tumbler
We also wrote this post if you could use some help picking out the best bourbon glass.
Or maybe they’re all set on glassware but could use bar tools for their collection. Some of the other bourbon accessories you might consider are:
- Glass decanters
- Whiskey stones or ice molds
- Bar spoons
- A cocktail shaker or strainer
- A muddler
- Bottle pourers
- A jigger
- A cutting board
- An ice bucket
Next, let’s look at your recipient’s taste and style.
2. Does the person like decorating?
If you’ve been to the person’s house, what’s their general style? Once you have a feel for their overall aesthetic, you can think about buying them something to complement their existing bar decorations.
You might consider:
- Artwork or bourbon-themed pictures or posters
- Recipe cards
- Cool-looking decanters
- Other fun bourbon accessories
But maybe the person you’re buying for is more into facts.
3. Does the person like bourbon history?
Do they like to talk (a lot) about bourbon? If they’re constantly reciting facts and researching bourbon and distilleries, you could give the gift of knowledge.
For your in-the-know friend, you might get them:
- A comprehensive guide to bourbon
- Books about bourbon history
- Bourbon tasting guides
- Bourbon-based cookbooks
Or maybe you just want to get them a bottle of bourbon.
4. Do you know what kind of palate they have?
In that case, it’s helpful to know what kind of flavor profiles they like:
- Do they like their bourbon harsh or mellow?
- Do they have a preference for aroma, taste, or finish?
- Do they prefer their flavors dried or fresh? Ripe or young? Sweet or acrid? Aromatic or aged?
And finally, what kind of price range are you considering?
5. What’s your budget?
When you know what kind of budget you have to spend, that will help you decide what kind of bourbon to buy, what kind of accessories to gift, or whether you could consider an entire bourbon gift set or basket.
We’ve included prices in this post that are current as of the time of publication. However, Amazon likes to change prices often, so what you see may not reflect the current pricing!
Now that you have some ideas to guide you along your gift-giving journey let’s look at some of the best gifts for bourbon lovers.
The Best Bourbon Gifts for Bourbon Lovers
We’ve covered some of our favorite bourbon gifts, but now it’s back over to you. What will you choose for the bourbon lover in your life?
Remember, it’s hard to go wrong when you consider the five big questions in this post. Do they have bar equipment? Like decorating? Love bourbon history? Do you know what kind of palate they have? And what’s your budget?
Armed with these details and the ideas in this post, you’re ready to buy the perfect gift!
And if you’re considering buying a bottle of bourbon as a gift and could use a little more knowledge, be sure to check out our best bourbons posts.
There are also tons of whiskey subscription boxes that would make for incredible gifts!
And if you’re looking for a gift for an elderly loved one, this is a great resource.
Hunter Branch is the Founder and Director of Editorial for Bourbon Inspector. He has been writing about and professionally reviewing bourbon since 2020 (and has been drinking it for much longer). He’s been able to interview big names in the bourbon industry like Trey Zoeller from Jefferson’s Bourbon and his work has been featured in publications like TastingTable, Mashed, and more.