Is Bourbon an Acquired Taste? A Journey Into Whiskey’s Charm

“The only tastes worth having are acquired tastes.” – Gilbert Adair

When I hit my college years, I’d watch my now-wife’s Grandpa and stepdad sip bourbon neat, exuding a quiet cool that hooked me. Their ritual ignited my curiosity—and kicked off a love affair with bourbon that’s only grown deeper over time. But is bourbon really an acquired taste? Let’s explore my journey and why I think it just might be.

The First Sip: A Fiery Wake-Up Call

My first encounter with bourbon wasn’t love at first sip—it was a blaze. That initial glass hit like liquid fire, scorching my throat. Yet, I was determined to finish it, drawn in by the challenge. That burning moment wasn’t about flavor—it was the spark that started my bourbon education.

Starting Sweet: Discovering Bourbon’s Softer Side

I eased into the sweeter stuff, like Maker’s Mark. Slowly, my taste buds woke up to the nuances—vanilla whispers here, citrus hints there. These smoother, softer bourbons were my training wheels, teaching me to appreciate the spirit’s complexity without overwhelming me. It was the first step toward cracking bourbon’s code.

Leveling Up: Embracing High-Proof Bourbon

As my palate grew bolder, I ventured into higher-proof territory. The burn that once dominated now took a backseat, letting richer flavors—oak, spice, caramel—shine through. This shift was a turning point, proof my taste had evolved from rookie to something more seasoned.

Why Bourbon’s More Than Just a Drink

Bourbon’s pull isn’t only about taste. It’s steeped in culture, history, and collectability—like Walker Percy nails in his essay Bourbon, Neat, it’s an aesthetic experience. Add in the memories of sharing pours with loved ones, and you’ve got a spirit that’s as much about connection as it is about flavor.

So, Is Bourbon an Acquired Taste? Yes—Here’s Why

For most, bourbon is an acquired taste, and here’s what makes it so:

• Cultural Depth: The stories and traditions behind each bottle add layers to every sip.
• Flavor Complexity: Its intricate profile unfolds over time, training your palate to pick out subtle notes.
• Personal Evolution: Your tastes shift as you explore, turning initial shock into lasting enjoyment.

It’s not instant gratification—it’s a journey worth taking.

Best Bourbons for Beginners to Start Your Journey

Ready to dive in? Try these beginner-friendly picks:

• Maker’s Mark: Smooth, sweet, and easy—perfect for your first sip.
• Weller Special Reserve: Tricky to find, but its gentle spice is a newbie’s dream.
• Woodford Reserve: Balanced and approachable, with depth to grow into.

Discover Your Bourbon Style

Bourbon’s an adventure—start exploring today. Download the NEAT: Whiskey Finder app to:

• Find exclusive bottles near you.
• Rate and review your pours.
• Connect with a community of bourbon fans.

What’s your bourbon story? Kick it off with NEAT: Whiskey Finder and let us know your favorite find—I’d love to hear where it takes you!