This year, the world of whiskey is buzzing with excitement, offering a lineup of exceptional pours that deserve your attention. From rare, small-batch releases to innovative flavor profiles, these whiskies are shaping the conversation for enthusiasts and collectors alike. Whether you’re expanding your collection or looking for your next great pour, these must-try whiskies are where your journey begins.

The Story Behind the Brands: Craftsmanship, Passion, Legacy

Every sip of whiskey tells a story—a legacy of mastery, patience, and bold innovation. Whether it’s the 16-year legacy of Old Grand-Dad, the mineral-rich finesse of Widow Jane Black Opal, or the untamed power of WhistlePig’s Boss Hog XI, these must-try whiskies capture the essence of extraordinary craftsmanship. Rooted in history and bound by a commitment to quality, these brands have elevated American whiskey to a new level of prestige and legacy.

Dive into their distinct legacies and discover why these legendary bottles belong in the collection of every true whiskey enthusiast.

Legends in a Glass: Must-Try Whiskies of 2024

1. Frank August Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey Cask Strength: Exclusively Curated for the Discerning Palate

Frank August is a modern bourbon brand that blends minimalist design with exceptional craftsmanship, quickly gaining recognition for its small-batch and single-barrel offerings. The Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey Cask Strength is uncut and unfiltered, delivering bold, authentic flavors that highlight the raw essence of the spirit. With rich notes of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak, it offers a robust and versatile profile perfect for sipping or cocktails. Frank August Single Barrel is the perfect choice for those seeking a bold and memorable whiskey experience in 2024.

2. Blood Oath Pact 10: A Masterpiece of Blending and Innovation

Blood Oath Pact 10 marks a decade of masterful blending by Lux Row Master Distiller and Master Blender John Rempe. This limited edition combines two well-aged ryed bourbons with a third bourbon, all meticulously double-finished in Cabernet Franc and Merlot casks. The Cabernet Franc barrels impart rich flavors of tart raspberries and black pepper, while the Merlot casks introduce notes of red stone fruits, vanilla, cocoa, and anise, resulting in a complex and fruit-forward profile. Bottled at 98.6 proof, this expression exemplifies Rempe's commitment to creating unique and exceptional bourbons, making it a coveted addition for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

3. Old Grand-Dad 16-Year-Old High Rye Bourbon: A Tribute to Heritage and Bold Flavor

Old Grand-Dad 16-Year-Old High Rye Bourbon is a tribute to one of bourbon's most iconic names, Basil Hayden, whose legacy of high-rye recipes has defined bold flavor for generations. This exquisite expression showcases 16 years of meticulous aging, resulting in a complex, well-rounded bourbon with layers of caramel, oak, and spice. Crafted with a high rye mash bill, it delivers a robust and peppery profile that’s both balanced and memorable. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious enthusiast, this rare offering captures the essence of bourbon tradition in every sip.

4. Widow Jane Black Opal 20-Year-Old: A Rare Jewel of Whiskey Craftsmanship

Widow Jane Black Opal 20-Year-Old is a rare and exquisite blend of bourbons aged for at least two decades, showcasing exceptional depth and complexity. The whiskey undergoes an extended finishing process in Mizunara oak casks, crafted from Japanese old-growth trees, which impart unique flavors of incense, toasted almond, and smoldering wood. Limited to just 5,000 bottles, this highly sought-after release is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and a must-have for collectors and connoisseurs of fine whiskey.

5. WhistlePig "The Boss Hog" XI: The Juggernaut – A Bold Masterpiece in Rye Whiskey

WhistlePig "The Boss Hog" XI: The Juggernaut represents the pinnacle of rye whiskey craftsmanship, featuring the distillery’s oldest straight rye, aged in American oak barrels for bold character. The whiskey undergoes a unique finishing process in Thandai barrels, seasoned with exotic Indian spices. This limited edition is a must-have for collectors and connoisseurs, embodying innovation and WhistlePig's dedication to pushing the boundaries of traditional rye whiskey.