Holidays are the perfect excuse to share something special—or to open a bottle you’ve been saving for yourself. Great whiskey tells a story, and this season I’ve gathered five that each speak to craftsmanship, innovation, and regional pride. Whether you’re looking for a collector’s pour or a new favorite to sip by the fire, these bottles deliver. Each one would be a great gift.
Ben Holladay Rickhouse Proof
Few distilleries capture Missouri’s whiskey renaissance like Ben Holladay. Located in Weston, Missouri, this historic operation dates back to the 1850s and has been beautifully revived in recent years. Their Rickhouse Proof series is a masterclass in authenticity—non-chill filtered, drawn straight from the barrel, and showcasing the distinct climate variations of each rickhouse. Every batch is slightly different, but you can always expect rich caramel, oak spice, and a long, satisfying finish. It’s a bottle that reminds you why patience in aging still matters. Missouri bourbon regulations are more specific than Kentucky. You are truly buying a made-in-Missouri product.
Penelope American Light Whiskey
Penelope continues to push boundaries, and their American Light Whiskey is proof of how creativity can lead to something remarkable. Distilled from a high-corn mash bill and aged in used oak barrels, it’s lighter in color yet full of flavor. Notes of vanilla, honey, and toasted grain create a profile that’s smooth and approachable without losing complexity. It’s a fun conversation piece for bourbon lovers who think they’ve tasted it all—and a unique holiday gift that’s anything but ordinary. Unfortunately, this bottle will be the hardest to locate on this list. If you see it, buy it. Did I mention it was 17 years old? This is definitely one of the top five whiskeys to gift or enjoy this holiday season.
Garrison Brothers Balmorhea
From the heart of Texas comes a bourbon that’s as bold as its origins. Garrison Brothers’ Balmorhea release is double-barreled, first aged in new American white oak and then re-barreled in a second new oak cask. The result is an incredibly rich, dark, and complex whiskey loaded with flavors of toffee, chocolate, and charred oak. Named after the crystal-clear Balmorhea State Park, this bourbon reflects both the rugged beauty and meticulous craftsmanship of the Lone Star State. It’s a showstopper bottle that belongs on any serious collector’s shelf. This is truly a personal favorite and one of the best bourbons made outside of Kentucky.
Old Route 8 by Augusta Distillery
Kentucky’s Augusta Distillery has been making waves with its dedication to traditional methods and small-batch precision. Their Old Route 8 release pays tribute to the scenic byway that runs through Augusta, combining local pride with solid whiskey-making chops. Expect a balanced bourbon with notes of caramel, baking spice, and toasted oak, backed by a smooth, warming finish. It’s approachable yet memorable—a bottle that’s just as good for gifting as it is for pouring on a quiet December evening.
Yellowstone 10-Year Anniversary Edition
Limestone Branch Distillery in Lebanon, Kentucky, has deep family roots that trace back to the legendary Beam lineage. Their Yellowstone 10-Year Anniversary Edition celebrates a decade of distilling excellence, and it’s every bit as refined as you’d hope. This Kentucky straight bourbon delivers a perfect blend of fruit, oak, vanilla, and spice, with a maturity that speaks to its age and craftsmanship. It’s a celebratory pour that honors both tradition and progress—a fitting choice to close out the year. If you have never sampled a Yellowstone Bourbon, this is the bottle to try.
Closing Thoughts
There are many great whiskey choices in the marketplace today. In fact, in many ways, the recent slowdown in bourbon sales has brought more choices to consumers. These five bottles capture the spirit of American whiskey in all its forms—from Missouri’s revival to Texas boldness, and from Kentucky tradition to modern experimentation. Whether you’re buying for a friend or treating yourself, each one offers a story worth sharing and a flavor worth savoring. I hope that you are able to at least sample some of the bottles on my list of top five whiskeys to gift or enjoy this holiday season. As you celebrate the 2025 holidays, may your glass be full, your company good, and your whiskey memorable.