5 Whiskeys to Help You Beat the Heat – 2024 Edition

Let’s Dive into some Summer Whiskey. As the sun rises higher in the sky and the days grow longer, the summer heat can be both relentless and exhilarating. The gentle summer breeze can offer little reprieve from the scorching heat that’s glaring down on us. The sky is filled with the sounds of birds chirping, lightening bugs flickering, and the sounds of children laughing and playing in the distance. The Summer heat inspires a slower pace of life, urging us to savor the simple pleasures of life and indulging in the sweet nectar that we call whiskey. That’s right ladies and gents… its summertime. Summertime can be a difficult time to enjoy the whiskey that we love. The key to enjoying your savory bottles of bourbon is to find the best lower proof bottles with the most depth and complexity that you can. This week we will talk about the five whiskeys that I will be sipping on this summer to help beat the summer heat. So, sit back, relax, and lets enjoy a little Smoke & Oak!

Benchmark Small Batch

Distilled By: Buffalo Trace  |  Proof: 90  |  Price: $17.99

If you’re a fan of Buffalo Trace and on the lookout for something with a similar profile but a unique twist, you’ll want to check this out. Imagine getting all that rich flavor without breaking the bank—this bourbon is a steal at just under twenty bucks. And at 90 proof, it’s got a profile that defies its price.

The best part is, it’s not just a run-of-the-mill alternative. It’s got layers, it’s got depth—it might even give the classic Buffalo Trace a run for its money. Plus, you won’t have to search high and low to find it. That’s a win in my book!

On the nose you’re greeted with a comforting blend of vanilla, a burst of fruitiness, and that timeless oak character. On the palate there’s this playful note of banana mingling with the oak and fruit, all rounded off with just the right touch of spice. It’s the kind of bourbon that’s perfect for sipping on a lazy, sun-soaked afternoon. It’s easy on the palate, so you can kick back, relax, and savor every moment without a care in the world.

Green River Wheated Bourbon

Distilled By: Green River   |  Proof: 90  |  Price: $33.99

Let me tell you about a little gem that’s been making waves in the whiskey world. Bardstown Bourbon Company recently acquired Green River Distillery, and they’ve been crafting some seriously good whiskey. Their latest creation? A Wheated Bourbon that’s smooth, rich, and absolutely delightful. If you’ve got a soft spot for a well-crafted wheater, this one’s going to steal your heart.

On the nose there’s the rich warmth of honey, the sunny burst of canned peaches, and a cozy duo of caramel and vanilla. It’s a scent that beckons you in, promising comfort and delight.

On the palate you get the wholesome earthiness of grain, the natural sweetness of honey, and then there’s a crisp, playful note of green apple. The caramel and vanilla come back for an encore, wrapping it all up in a sweet, easy finish. It’s the kind of drink that goes down easy, leaving you with a smile and a hankering for another sip

Oh, and here’s a fun twist that makes this bourbon even more entertaining for summer get-togethers: it’s got a party trick up its sleeve. Check out the bottom of the bottle—it’s crafted into a nice horseshoe shape, complete with a coin slot right up front. Picture this: you’re hanging out with friends, the bottle’s set at the other end of the table, and you’re all flicking coins, aiming for that lucky slot. Land it, and it’s bottoms up—or whatever fun stakes you’ve dreamed up. It’s like the bourbon’s own little carnival game, guaranteed to spark some laughter and friendly competition.

Jim Beam Black 7 Years

Distilled By: Jim Beam Distillery   |  Proof: 90  |  Price: $23.99

Guess what’s making a comeback? Jim Beam’s age statement is returning to the spotlight with its Black series. Just last month, these bottles started popping up on liquor store shelves, all set to take over from the old Jim Beam Black bottles that lacked the age statement. It’s been the talk of the WhiskeyTube community, stirring up all sorts of opinions—some folks can’t get enough of it, while others aren’t too impressed.

As for me? I’m all in. Sure, it may not be the crown jewel of whiskeys, but there’s something about that Beam charm that hits the spot. And if you’re into the Beam flavor and on the hunt for a milder proof with a wallet-friendly price tag, this bottle’s calling your name. It’s like finding that cozy, well-worn leather chair in a whiskey bar—it’s not the fanciest seat in the house, but it’s the one you keep coming back to.

On the nose I get the familiar scents of the Beam profile. There’s a rich oak, a hint of dusty peanuts, a zesty whisper of citrus, all tied together with a sweet ribbon of caramel. On the palate, it’s a bold stroke of peanut butter, cherry, a presence of oak, and a smooth finish of vanilla. It’s light, breezy, and just so effortless to sip on. A perfect, low-proof companion for those lazy summer days. And the best part? It’s a steal for the quality it offers

Glenmorangie Original 10 Years Old Bourbon Cask

Distilled By: Glenmorangie  |  Proof: 86  |  Price: $35.99

If you’ve been following my whiskey wanderings, you might be raising an eyebrow right now. “Did he just recommend a Scotch?” Yep, I sure did. Some good friends of mine have started nudging me into the world of Scotch. Starting with a few bourbon-finished beauties and moving on to the sweeter, fruit-forward kinds. This Scotch right here? It was my gateway bottle, and boy, does it deliver. It’s got a profile that’s just right for bourbon lovers, packed with all those familiar flavors we adore.

The nose is like a stroll through an orchard—zesty citrus, sweet honey, and rich caramel, all tied together with a hint of pear and a whisper of vanilla. The palate is a continuation of that journey, with those same sweet, fruity notes of caramel and vanilla, and just a touch of oak to remind you of its bourbon barrel roots. It’s a Scotch that even a bourbon purist would tip their hat to.

Bruichladdich – The Classic Laddie

Distilled By: Bruichladdich  |  Proof: 100  |  Price: $62.99

Hold up, another Scotch recommendation? That’s right, two in one go! But don’t worry, I haven’t forgotten about our beloved Bourbon. Last summer, I stumbled upon this Scotch and it was love at first sip. I was on the hunt for something that could stand in for Bourbon on those days when you crave a change—something light, sweet, and with a fruity kick. This one came highly recommended, and it’s been a staple ever since.

Imagine unwinding after a sun-drenched day, a great cigar in hand, and this Scotch is your perfect companion. On the nose it greets you with notes of oak, ripe pear, juicy melon, and a hint of vanilla. On the palate it’s like a gentle breeze of sweetness and a subtle smoky whisper, all wrapped up with oak and a playful fruitiness. It’s the kind of drink that makes you want to kick back, relax, and let the world spin on without you for a while.

LETS START A CONVERSATION!!!

What are some bottles that you will be enjoying this summer? Post them in the comment section below. You know I love conversation and will reply to you. As always, I want to thank you so much for taking the time to read this. Until the next Whiskey Wednesday, if you’re going to enjoy a little smoke & oak just remember, “Life’s too short, enjoy the good stuff…” and do it responsibly!