Okay. You’ve started to notice that bottles of bourbon are outnumbering everything else in your liquor collection. You reach for bourbon to drink more than anything else. Maybe you’ve joined a subscription service, gone to a few distilleries, or were gifted some for the holidays. You are well on your way to becoming a bourbon aficionado!

Has your bourbon collection somehow started without you noticing?

Building a successful bourbon collection isn’t hard if you know what to look for. Here are 5 easy steps to get you started.

1. Clarify Your Purpose & Tastes

• Enjoyment First: Whether your goal is drinking, investing, or both, make sure that tasting and sharing remain a priority.

• Taste Profiles: Begin with flavors you enjoy—whether that's smooth, spicy, or sweet—and expand your collection from there, as recommended by Bourboneur and The Whiskey Reserve.

2. Begin with Simple, Strategic Steps

• Recommended for Beginners: Consider purchasing reasonably priced, high-quality bourbons such as Wild Turkey 101, Knob Creek, Woodford Reserve, or Old Forester 100 Proof.

• Explore Varieties: Broaden your experience by sampling different categories, including High Rye (for example, Bulleit), Small Batch (such as Booker's or Basil Hayden's), Single Barrel (e.g., Four Roses), and Budget-Friendly options (like Benchmark).

• Establish a Budget: Manage expenses effectively by defining clear collection priorities.

3. Learn the Legendary Stories & Community

• Discover Bourbon: Take time to learn what distinguishes bourbon, such as its use of corn mash and aging in freshly charred oak barrels.

• Get Involved: Check out nearby shops, talk with the knowledgeable staff, and participate in online communities or local tasting groups to uncover new releases and hidden gems.

• Explore the Background: Delving into the history and production techniques enhances your appreciation for every bottle.

4. Manage & Enjoy Your Collection

• Storage: Find a cool, dark, stable space for your bottles.

• Don't Hoard: The best collection is one you drink. Open bottles to savor them, even saving a bit for later comparison.

• Chase Experiences: Focus on distillery tours, special releases, and sharing with friends, not just acquiring rare trophies. 

• Consider an App: Apps like Distilando or Whiskey Shelf allow you to digitize your collection easily, and some, like Connosr, have social, community-based features. 

5. Seek Out Special Bottles (When Ready)

• Track Releases: Pay attention to limited editions like Four Roses LE Small Batch, Elijah Craig Barrel Proof, or Maker's Mark Wood Finishing Series.

• Consider Investments: Some rare bottles appreciate in value, but this should be secondary to enjoying the hobby. 

Conclusion

Building a bourbon collection starts with understanding your taste preferences, connecting with fellow enthusiasts, exploring the history behind each bottle, and curating a selection that is diverse but meaningful to you. Focus on enjoyment rather than amassing bottles; start with accessible options like Wild Turkey 101 or Old Forester 100 Proof. Try different styles, such as high rye or small batch bourbons, but remember—the goal is to have a collection that makes sense to you!

DID YOU KNOW?

Pegasus Tours offers both private and group bourbon tours! And they have special rates with The Galt House Hotel.

Note: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not represent any endorsement by Pegasus.

Pegasus is an Official Partner

Only Pegasus offers an unmatched blend of luxury and elegance in chauffeured & chartered services, personalized tours, and exclusive Kentucky Bourbon Trail's™ distillery experiences, all backed by 5-star reviews. We excel in providing top-tier transportation for distinguished events like Bourbon and Beyond, Kentucky Bourbon Festival, and Louder Than Life, ensuring a memorable journey every time.