We’re not precisely certain how the yr has flown by this rapidly, however the vacation purchasing season is right here. The summer-to-fall transition has begun, the autumn holidays are approaching, and earlier than we all know it, eating tables throughout the nation might be set for Thanksgiving dinner. So, we figured this yr we’d get a little bit of a head begin on our vacation reward lists.
You in all probability know somebody who’s at all times joyful to take pleasure in a cocktail with you, however do you might have any buddies or household who particularly love bourbon? More than likely sure. For anybody who isn’t a seasoned whiskey drinker, you is perhaps confused in regards to the variations between whiskey, bourbon, and Scotch. You may also be slightly not sure of which at-home bar items your bourbon-loving buddy would adore. Nicely, we’re right here to assist.
First off, let’s break down the three phrases we simply talked about. Whiskey (additionally spelled “Whisky,” when referring to Scottish, Canadian, or Japanese grain spirits as a substitute of these made in the USA or Eire) is a normal time period for an alcoholic liquor made out of fermented mashed grains. Underneath that umbrella lives bourbon and scotch. Bourbon is particularly whiskey that’s made out of a grain combination that’s at the least 51 % corn and Scotch is whisky that is made in Scotland and “will get its distinctive smoky taste from the method wherein it’s made: the grain, primarily barley, is malted after which heated over a peat hearth,” in response to Eater in a 2019 breakdown.
Now that we’re all set on the essential terminology, it is time to dive into the 11 greatest glasses, equipment, and treats any whiskey fan (and bourbon lover) might be ecstatic to unwrap.
Want extra inspiration for cocktails? Go to our assortment of recipes and cocktail-centric information at Drinks52.
1. Hand-Etched Diamond Reduce Crystal Whiskey Glass & Decanter, $147+
To decant or to not decant? Anybody who loves whiskey in all probability has their very own opinion of whether or not it’s price storing it in a decanter or not. If the individual you are searching for sits on the pro-decanter facet of issues (otherwise you’re making an attempt to persuade them that it’s price the additional step), give them this crystal whiskey glass and decanter pair. Each bit is mouth-blown by grasp craftsmen within the Czech Republic from pure crystal after which hand-cut in a good diamond sample.
2. Crafthouse Bar Device Set, $100
In case your buddy likes to host or mess around with at-home cocktail creation, they’ll admire this lovely software set. With a wooden chopping board, a bar knife, a channel knife, and a peeler, they’re going to have every thing they should get that excellent orange-peel garnish for his or her Outdated Long-established.
3. MATCH Italian Pewter & Crystal Whiskey Snifter Glass, $97
Any critical bourbon drinker ought to have at the least one snifter glass of their assortment. Because of the spherical backside and slender mouth of a snifter glass, the aromas are trapped (or concentrated), so you possibly can expertise them every time you are taking a sip. Plus, the small stem helps to forestall your hand from warming up your whiskey or bourbon of selection. This one from MATCH is made from pewter and crystal and is handmade in Italy, serving to you sip in type.
4. Classic-Impressed Copper Cocktail Cups (Set of 4), $150
If a mint julep is their favourite drink, shock them with this set of copper cocktail cups to allow them to make them at residence. Copper on the surface and tin on the within, they’re able to be full of the Kentucky’s cocktail of selection.
5. Classic-Impressed Ice Crusher Package, $40
Nonetheless in a julep mind-set, this ice crusher package is a enjoyable reward for any whiskey lover who likes to host. Many whiskey-centric drinks just like the aforementioned mint julep, a bourbon smash, or this Bourbon, Orange, and Ginger typically name for crushed or pebble ice, so why not make it straightforward?
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6. LSA Borough Bar Glass Assortment (Set of 4), $55
Whereas all of those glasses are excellent for any residence bar, the coupe glasses are particularly nice for any bourbon-centric bar cart. The following Manhattan they make might be picture-ready.
7. MATCH Italian Pewter & Glass Mixing Glass, $195+
A crystal glass with a pewter base, this mixing glass is a wonderful reward any cocktail fan will love. Add this to their at-home bar setup they usually’ll be stirring a Sazerac very quickly.
8. Estelle Hand-Blown Coloured Rocks Glasses (Set of two), $95
Generally one of the best items are ones which might be considerate and easy. This pair of basic rocks glasses is a incredible reward for anybody who does not take care of the frills of at-home cocktail making—they simply need a wonderful glass for sipping on their favourite pour.
9. Further-Massive Ice Dice Trays, Set of two, $48
As you in all probability already know, whenever you add water to whiskey it adjustments the flavour profile. If the individual you are searching for prefers their bourbon on the rocks, then this set of extra-large ice cubes is a perfect reward for them. Every tray has a compact, space-saving, stackable design and makes 4 2.25-inch sq. cubes excellent for slowly melting right into a stiff drink.
10. AREAWARE Geometric Whiskey Stones (Set of 4), $45
Alternatively, in case your buddy loves a chilly glass however does not need any dilution, these whiskey stones are a simple swap. Simply pop this hand-finished set of soapstone and marble shapes—a pyramid, sphere, rectangular prism, and cylinder—within the freezer they usually’ll be prepared to sit back (however by no means water down) any glass.
11. Tuthilltown Bourbon Barrel Aged Maple Syrup, $29
Lastly, if their bar cart is already crammed to the brim, attempt nodding at their love for all issues whiskey with this bourbon maple syrup. Every bottle is harvested from heritage sugar shacks within the orchards of Québec earlier than maturing in charred American oak barrels with a little bit of uncooked Tuthilltown bourbon. Because of this course of, the syrup has a fancy, oaky taste that’s not possible to not love.
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What’s your bourbon or whiskey of selection? Tell us beneath!