If you love American whiskey, 2026 offers an exciting lineup of exceptional bottles that reflect both tradition and innovation. From time‑honored bourbons and spicy rye whiskeys to experimental and small‑batch releases, the U.S. continues to lead globally in whiskey quality and diversity. Below are ten must‑try American whiskey selections for enthusiasts in 2026, each offering a unique tasting experience grounded in craftsmanship and rich flavor profiles.
1. Old Fitzgerald 2024 VVS 13‑Year Bourbon
Recognized as the World’s Best Bourbon at the 2025 World Whiskies Awards, Old Fitzgerald 2024 VVS is a standout bourbon with a rich interplay of caramel, toasted oak, dark chocolate, and subtle spice. The 13‑year aging gives it depth and a long, velvety finish, making it essential for bourbon lovers.
2. Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel
A quintessential American whiskey, Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel delivers bold, concentrated flavors of dried fruit, baking spices, and rich oak. Its barrel‑strength profile offers nuance and power in every sip, earning it acclaim as one of the best single‑barrel bourbons available.
3. Heaven Hill Grain to Glass Kentucky Straight Rye
This rye whiskey won Best American Rye at the World Whiskies Awards, thanks to its high rye mash bill that yields bold spice, pepper, caramel, and oak complexity. With a long warming finish and rich character, it’s a prime example of American rye excellence.
4. Jack Daniel’s Tennessee 12‑Year Old Batch #2
A top winner in the Tennessee whiskey category, this limited‑edition Jack Daniel’s release showcases deeper complexity than its standard bottlings, with notes of caramelized sugar, dark fruits, and toasted oak alongside smooth spice. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of Tennessee‑made spirits.
5. Woodinville Straight Bourbon Whiskey (9‑Year)
Praised by whiskey experts as one of the best new bourbons of 2025, this Washington‑state‑crafted bourbon features rich, oak‑saturated character, making it a compelling choice for those who appreciate powerfully matured American whiskey with depth and balance.
6. King’s Family Distillery Ryeconic
A rising star from a small distillery in the Smoky Mountains, Ryeconic rye whiskey earned high marks at the 2025 International Wine & Spirits Competition. Its mash bill centers on rye spice with layers of vanilla and caramel sweetness, striking a perfect balance of heat and smoothness.
7. Michter’s 20‑Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon
For collectors and serious enthusiasts, the limited 20‑year release from Michter’s represents the pinnacle of aging in American whiskey. With deep oak influence and intense flavor complexity, this bottle is perfect for savoring slowly and celebrating special moments.
8. Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye (2025 Release)
Part of the renowned Sazerac line, Thomas H. Handy is uncut and unfiltered, capturing full rye intensity with bold spice and nuanced sweetness. Its high proof and rich profile make it a must‑try for fans of powerful rye whiskies.
9. Blood Oath Bourbon Pact No. 11
This limited annual blend from Blood Oath brings together multiple bourbons of varying ages, including finishes in tequila barrels, resulting in a complex whiskey with layers of spice, sweet oak, and distinctive cask influence. It’s an inventive choice that pushes traditional American whiskey boundaries.
10. Jack Daniel’s Bonded Triple Mash
Winning the Best American Style Whiskey, this innovative bottle blends Tennessee whiskey, rye, and bourbon for a multi‑dimensional flavor experience. It showcases how blending distinct mash bills can create a unique twist on classic American whiskey style.
Conclusion
From classic bourbons and award‑winning ryes to bold limited releases and innovative blends, the world of American whiskey in 2026 has something for every enthusiast. Whether you’re building a collection or exploring new tasting territory, these ten selections highlight the best of American craft and tradition. When you’re ready to explore these exceptional whiskeys further, you can buy whiskey online to conveniently access rare and standout bottles from across the country.
