Welcome to Bourbon 101

New to bourbon or just want to sharpen your knowledge? You’re in the right place. Here we break down the essentials — from how it’s made and what makes it bourbon, to how to taste, collect, and talk about it like a pro.

Whether you’re sipping your first pour or your fiftieth, this is your guide to understanding and enjoying America’s native spirit.

Start here. Sip smarter.

Hoard Less, Share More: The Unspoken Rules of Bourbon Collecting

Hoard Less, Share More: The Unspoken Rules of Bourbon Collecting

Let’s be honest—bourbon collecting can be a slippery slope. It starts innocently enough: a bottle here, a special release there. Then suddenly, your shelves are overflowing, your spouse is giving...
Old Bottles, Big Stories: The Magic of Dusty Bourbon Finds

Old Bottles, Big Stories: The Magic of Dusty Bourbon Finds

There’s a special kind of thrill that comes from cracking open a bottle that’s older than you are. The cork squeaks, the seal flakes, and out pours a little piece...
Masters of the Mash: The Legends Who Shaped Bourbon

Masters of the Mash: The Legends Who Shaped Bourbon

When you pour a glass of bourbon, it’s easy to focus on the label, the proof, or the color in the glass. But behind every great bottle is a person—or...
Willett 4-Year Bourbon Purple Top — Barrel Proof That Actually Delivers

Willett 4-Year Bourbon Purple Top — Barrel Proof That Actually Delivers

Today we’re talking about something from Willett that caught me by surprise: the 4-Year Bourbon Purple Top. Yes, it’s a purple top, but not the thousand-dollar showpiece your buddy posts...
Single Barrel, Singular Experience: The Art of Store Picks

Single Barrel, Singular Experience: The Art of Store Picks

If you’ve been in the bourbon world for any amount of time, you’ve probably seen the words “Private Selection” or “Store Pick” on a label — and maybe wondered what...

Picks Worth a Pour

When it comes to bourbon, Nick knows his stuff — and so do his 60,000+ online followers. As a seasoned connoisseur and trusted reviewer, Nick’s palate is sharp, his takes are honest, and his picks are always worth a pour.

From underrated gems to legendary bottles, Nick’s Picks showcases the bourbons he's sipping, scoring, and recommending right now. Whether you're building your collection or just looking for your next favorite pour, start here.

Follow the flavor. Trust the palate. These are Nick’s Picks.