Forget what you think you know about whiskey. Flavored bourbon is rewriting the rules, offering a smoother, sweeter, and more playful experience. It’s crafted by taking a traditional bourbon base and infusing it with everything from classic honey and vanilla to decadent dessert profiles like s’mores and salted caramel. The result is a spirit that’s perfect for sipping neat, on the rocks, or as the star of your new favorite cocktail. This guide is your complete introduction to the category, designed to help you find a bottle you’ll love. We’ll explore the different flavor profiles, recommend top brands, and share simple ways to enjoy your new flavored bourbon whiskey.
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</div>Key Takeaways
- Embrace the “Flavored Whiskey” Category: While it uses bourbon as a base, adding flavor creates a distinct spirit that’s typically smoother and lower in proof, making it incredibly approachable for sipping or mixing.
- Start with Flavors You Already Love: The best way to find a favorite is to choose a profile that appeals to you, whether it’s the nostalgic taste of s’mores, the sweetness of peach, or the richness of vanilla.
- Don’t Overthink Your Drink: These spirits are designed for easy enjoyment. Try your bottle neat or on the rocks first to appreciate its unique character, or mix it with a simple soda for a quick and delicious cocktail.
What Sets Flavored Bourbon Apart?
If you find traditional bourbon a little intimidating, or if you’re a seasoned whiskey drinker looking for a fun twist, flavored bourbon is your perfect match. Think of it as bourbon’s creative, outgoing cousin. It takes the classic, rich notes of aged whiskey—like caramel, oak, and vanilla—and layers them with delicious, approachable flavors. The result is a spirit that’s smoother, often sweeter, and incredibly versatile.
Flavored bourbons are designed to be easy to enjoy. They lower the barrier to entry for anyone curious about whiskey, offering a more direct path to the flavors you already love. Whether it’s the nostalgic taste of our S’Mores Whiskey or the familiar sweetness of peach or honey, these spirits are perfect for sipping on their own, mixing into simple cocktails, or sharing with friends. They provide a new way to experience a classic American spirit, making it more accessible and fun for everyone.
How is Flavored Bourbon Made?
The process is pretty straightforward. It all starts with a base of whiskey, which provides that familiar warm, oaky foundation. From there, distillers infuse the spirit with natural or artificial flavorings, along with sweeteners, to create a specific taste profile. This infusion happens after the whiskey has been aged. The goal is to create a balanced, smooth, and easy-to-drink spirit where the added flavor complements the whiskey base rather than overpowering it. This method makes flavored whiskey a fantastic and fun entry point into the world of spirits.
A Guide to Flavor Profiles
The world of flavored bourbon is incredibly diverse. You can find everything from classic additions like honey, vanilla, and apple to more inventive and decadent options like peanut butter, salted caramel, and chocolate. These spirits are often described as bold and sweet, making them perfect for crafting creative cocktails without needing a long list of ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for something fruity and bright or rich and dessert-like, there’s a flavored bourbon out there that will hit the spot and inspire your next drink creation.
What to Look For: Quality and ABV
When you’re picking out a bottle, take a look at the Alcohol By Volume (ABV). Flavored bourbons typically have a lower ABV, often sitting around 35% (70 proof), compared to traditional bourbons which must be at least 40% (80 proof). This lower alcohol content is actually a big part of their appeal—it makes them smoother and more sippable right out of the bottle. For quality, look for brands that are transparent about using a solid whiskey base. The best flavored bourbons taste like a well-crafted pairing, not an overly sweet or artificial concoction.
Flavored vs. Traditional Bourbon
Here’s a key distinction to know: technically, once flavor is added to bourbon, it can no longer be legally labeled as “bourbon” in the United States. Instead, it’s classified as a “flavored whiskey,” “whiskey specialty,” or “bourbon liqueur.” So, when you see a bottle labeled “flavored bourbon,” it means it uses bourbon as its base spirit. This is different from how traditional bourbon gets extra flavor notes, which often comes from finishing the aging process in barrels that previously held other liquids, like wine or sherry.
Flavored Bourbons You Need to Try
Ready to find your new favorite bottle? The world of flavored bourbon is packed with creative and delicious options, from comforting classics to bold new combinations. Whether you’re looking for something sweet, fruity, or completely unexpected, there’s a flavored whiskey out there for you. Think of this as your personal tasting guide to some of the best profiles on the market. We’ll walk through a few standout categories to help you discover what you like and what you should try next.
Mash & Mallow S’mores Whiskey
If you love the taste of a gooey s’more fresh from the campfire, this one’s for you. Mash & Mallow S’mores Whiskey perfectly captures that nostalgic experience, blending smooth American whiskey with notes of rich chocolate, toasted marshmallow, and sweet graham cracker. It’s a standout in a market filled with unique options, offering a flavor that’s both familiar and exciting. This whiskey is incredibly versatile—delicious enough to sip on its own over ice but also a fantastic base for creative cocktails. It’s the ideal spirit for anyone looking to add a little fun and sweetness to their glass.
Classic Vanilla and Honey
For those who appreciate a more subtle sweetness, vanilla and honey-flavored bourbons are a perfect starting point. These flavors blend seamlessly with the natural caramel and oak notes of the whiskey, creating a smooth and approachable profile. A great example is Jim Beam Vanilla, which mixes Madagascar vanilla with their classic Kentucky Straight Bourbon for a pleasantly sweet finish. These whiskeys are fantastic for sipping neat or mixing into simple cocktails like a whiskey and cola, where the warm, sweet notes can really shine. They offer a gentle introduction to the world of flavored spirits.
Bright and Fruity Options
When you’re in the mood for something a little more vibrant, fruit-infused bourbons are an excellent choice. Flavors like peach, apple, and cherry add a bright, refreshing twist to the whiskey’s rich character. Many distilleries, like Jim Beam, offer a whole line of flavored bourbon whiskies that make it easy to find a fruit profile you’ll love. These spirits are especially great for crafting light, summery cocktails. Try mixing a peach-flavored bourbon with iced tea for a perfect porch sipper or an apple-flavored one with ginger ale for a crisp and zesty highball.
Decadent Dessert Flavors
Ready to treat your sweet tooth? The dessert category is where flavored whiskey gets really creative. Beyond s’mores, you can find everything from peanut butter and salted caramel to cookie dough and mint chocolate chip. Brands like Bird Dog Whiskey and Ole Smoky are well-known for their decadent dessert-inspired flavors that taste like a treat in a glass. These whiskeys are perfect for after-dinner drinks or for creating indulgent cocktails that double as dessert. They prove that whiskey can be both sophisticated and seriously fun.
Seasonal and Limited Releases
Keep an eye out for seasonal and limited-edition flavored bourbons. These special releases often feature unique flavor combinations tied to holidays or specific times of year, like gingerbread, pumpkin spice, or mango habanero. They offer a fun way to explore new tastes and celebrate the season. Because they’re not around forever, they add a sense of excitement to your search. For many, the lower alcohol content of flavored whiskeys is a big part of their appeal, making them more sessionable and mixable than some of their high-proof counterparts.
Where to Find Your New Favorite Bottle
Once you’ve got a few flavored bourbons on your radar, the fun part begins: tracking them down. Whether you prefer the convenience of online shopping or the thrill of an in-store discovery, finding your next go-to bottle is easier than ever. The key is knowing where to look and what to expect when it comes to price and storage. Let’s walk through how to get that perfect bottle from the shelf to your home bar.
Shopping Online
Shopping for spirits online has completely changed the game. You can explore a massive selection of flavored whiskeys from the comfort of your couch and have them shipped right to your door. This is the best way to find niche or newer brands that might not have hit your local stores yet. For instance, you can buy Mash & Mallow online and get our signature S’mores Whiskey delivered, so you can start mixing up delicious cocktails without a trip to the store. Online retailers often provide detailed flavor notes and reviews, helping you make a confident choice before you click “purchase.”
Checking Local Shelves
There’s something special about browsing the aisles of your favorite liquor store. You can hold the bottle, read the label up close, and sometimes even ask the staff for their personal recommendations. Most well-stocked stores have a dedicated section for flavored whiskeys, where you’ll find everything from big names to local craft options. If you’re looking for a specific bottle, like Mash & Mallow, it’s always a good idea to check ahead. You can use our handy store locator to find a retailer in your area that carries our S’mores Whiskey.
How to Find the Best Price
Everyone loves a good deal, and a little research can save you some cash. If you’re shopping online, take a moment to compare prices across a few different websites. Some online retailers offer competitive pricing and promotions, like free or discounted shipping on larger orders. When you’re in a physical store, keep an eye out for sales or special offers. Signing up for your local store’s loyalty program can also give you access to exclusive discounts. A great price makes that first pour even sweeter.
A Quick Guide to Price and Value
You might notice that flavored bourbons are often more affordable than their traditional counterparts. This is usually because they are designed to be approachable, fun, and easy to mix, making them perfect for casual sipping or creative cocktails. The lower price point makes it easy to experiment with different flavor profiles without a huge investment. It’s all about value—you get a high-quality, delicious spirit that’s versatile and doesn’t break the bank. Think of it as an invitation to play with new flavors and find what you love.
How to Store Flavored Bourbon
Once you’ve brought your new bottle home, you’ll want to store it properly to protect its flavor. Thankfully, it’s simple. Like other whiskeys, flavored bourbon should be stored upright in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. A cabinet, pantry, or bar cart that’s out of the sun’s path is perfect. Storing the bottle upright prevents the high-proof alcohol from corroding the cork over time. Proper storage ensures that every time you pour a glass, you’re getting the full, delicious flavor the master distiller intended.
How to Enjoy Flavored Bourbon
Once you’ve found a flavored bourbon that piques your interest, the real fun begins. These spirits are incredibly versatile, designed to be enjoyed in whatever way suits your mood. Whether you’re a purist who prefers a simple pour or a home mixologist ready to experiment, there’s no wrong way to savor the flavor. The key is to find what you love. Think of the bottle’s flavor profile as your starting point—from there, you can sip it straight, mix it into a simple drink, or build a complex cocktail. It’s all about making the experience your own and sharing it with good company.
The Best Ways to Serve It
The simplest way to get to know a flavored bourbon is to drink it neat—that is, straight, at room temperature, with no ice. This lets you experience the full aroma and taste exactly as the distiller intended. If you prefer a chilled drink, serve it on the rocks (over ice). A large ice cube or sphere is a great choice because it melts slower, chilling your drink with less dilution. For many flavored bourbons, especially sweeter ones like Mash & Mallow S’mores, these simple preparations are all you need. They let the spirit’s unique character shine without any distractions, making for a perfect after-dinner treat or a relaxing evening sip.
Must-Try Cocktail Recipes
Flavored bourbons are fantastic for putting a new spin on classic drinks. You can easily swap one into your favorite whiskey cocktail for an instant upgrade. A vanilla-flavored bourbon, for example, works beautifully with cola for a simple highball. For a truly unique experience, try mixing a s’mores-flavored whiskey into an espresso martini or a boozy hot chocolate for the ultimate cozy indulgence. If you’re looking for more inspiration, you can find dozens of creative ideas on our cocktails page that are designed to highlight unique flavor profiles and are easy to make at home.
Perfect Food Pairings
Pairing your drink with the right food can completely transform your tasting experience. The rich, sweet notes in many flavored bourbons make them a natural match for desserts. Think about pairing a glass of Mash & Mallow S’mores Whiskey with chocolate lava cakes, a warm brownie, or even just a bowl of vanilla ice cream. Don’t be afraid to try savory combinations, either. The sweetness can cut through the richness of salty or smoky foods, so consider sipping it alongside a charcuterie board with aged cheeses, or even with a plate of slow-cooked barbecue ribs. The contrast can be surprisingly delicious.
Tips for Hosting and Entertaining
Flavored bourbon is a great way to add a little fun to your next get-together. Instead of just offering beer and wine, consider setting up a small tasting station. You could offer a few different flavored bourbons and let your guests sample them to find their favorite. Another great idea is to create a signature cocktail for the evening using a flavored bourbon as the base. You can mix up a big batch ahead of time to make serving easy. It’s a thoughtful touch that makes any gathering feel a bit more special and gives everyone a chance to try something new.
Creative Ways to Pour a Glass
Think beyond the cocktail shaker. Flavored bourbons can be used in all sorts of creative ways. Try blending a shot of s’mores or vanilla bourbon into a milkshake for a decadent, adults-only treat. You can also drizzle it over a scoop of ice cream or a slice of cheesecake for an easy, boozy dessert sauce. Because of their unique profiles, flavored bourbons also make fantastic gifts. A bottle of something special, like Mash & Mallow S’mores Whiskey, is a thoughtful present for the whiskey lover in your life. You can even buy a bottle online and have it shipped right to their door.
Related Articles
- Mash and Mallow – Mash and Mallow Info
- Mash and Mallow – Why Our Marshmallow Whiskey
- Cocktails – Mash and Mallow
- Buy Mash & Mallow – S’mores Flavored Whiskey
- Mash & Mallow and Crème de Banane Shot – Mash and Mallow
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</div>Frequently Asked Questions
Is flavored bourbon really bourbon? Technically, no. Once flavors and sweeteners are added to bourbon, it is legally classified as a “flavored whiskey” or “whiskey specialty.” Think of it this way: it starts with a genuine bourbon base, which gives it that classic warm and oaky foundation, but the added flavors create a whole new category of spirit. It’s a helpful distinction to know when you’re browsing the shelves.
I’m new to whiskey. What’s the best way to try flavored bourbon for the first time? The best approach is to start simple so you can really taste what the spirit is all about. Try pouring a small amount neat (at room temperature) or on the rocks with a single large ice cube. This lets you experience the flavor profile without any other ingredients getting in the way. Choosing a flavor you already love, like s’mores or vanilla, makes the introduction to whiskey much more familiar and enjoyable.
Are flavored bourbons only good for sweet, dessert-style cocktails? Not at all! While they are fantastic in sweeter drinks, their versatility might surprise you. The sweetness in a flavored bourbon can beautifully balance the smoky or salty notes in savory food pairings, like barbecue or a charcuterie board. You can also use them to put a creative twist on classic, spirit-forward cocktails, adding a new layer of complexity that isn’t just about sweetness.
How is this different from just adding a flavored syrup to my regular bourbon? The difference comes down to infusion and balance. A quality flavored bourbon is made by a distiller who carefully infuses flavors into the whiskey base, aiming for a smooth and integrated taste where the whiskey and the added notes complement each other. Simply adding a syrup at home can often taste one-dimensional and overly sweet, potentially overpowering the subtle character of the whiskey itself.
Besides cocktails, what are some other creative ways to use flavored bourbon? Flavored bourbon is a fantastic ingredient to have in your kitchen. You can blend a splash of a dessert-flavored one, like our S’mores Whiskey, into a milkshake for an adult-only treat. It also makes an incredible dessert topping when drizzled over vanilla ice cream or a slice of cheesecake. You can even get adventurous and try using it in a glaze for grilled meats to add a sweet and smoky kick.
