What Are Store Picks? Your Guide to Unique Bourbon Finds
Ever spotted your favorite bourbon on the shelf, only to notice a quirky sticker with the store’s name plastered on it? That’s a store pick—a special bottle with a story. But what exactly does it mean, and why should you care? Let’s unpack this bourbon insider term and see how it can level up your whiskey game.
Store Picks Explained: Hand-Selected Barrels
A store pick is simple: someone from the store—usually a manager or bourbon enthusiast—visits a distillery and hand-picks a single barrel to be bottled exclusively for their shop. Unlike mass-produced blends, these are one-of-a-kind pours, straight from that chosen cask. It’s a custom job, and the result is a bottle that reflects the picker’s taste.
The Risk and Reward of Store Picks
Here’s the catch: store picks are a bit of a gamble. The person selecting the barrel might have eccentric preferences that don’t vibe with you—maybe they love intense spice while you’re all about smooth vanilla. But flip that coin, and the reward can be huge. If their palate aligns with yours, you could land a standout bottle that’s better than the standard lineup. Higher risk, higher reward—it’s the store pick way.
Why Store Picks Are More Than Just a Bottle
Beyond scoring a unique bourbon, store picks can open doors. Find a store with consistently great picks? Make it your go-to. Buying their selections regularly builds a relationship—think insider access to allocated bottles or tips on under-the-radar gems. Plus, if you love their custom barrels, their staff probably knows a thing or two about bourbon and can steer you toward other winners.
Try a Store Pick and Share Your Thoughts
Next time you snag a store pick, give it a whirl and see where it lands on your taste scale. Loved it? Let us know by rating it on the world’s best whiskey app, NEAT: Whiskey Finder! It’s the perfect spot to track your finds and swap notes with fellow bourbon hunters. What’s your favorite store pick discovery? I’d love to hear!
