Father’s Day is almost here. If you’re still scrambling for a gift—or the previous sentence was new information to you—consider something historic, timeless, and thoughtful.
Whether the dad in your life wants something to mix, likes it neat, or channels an inner Don Draper with an old fashioned, there’s a bourbon out there. Luke Castle, owner of Ace Spirits in Hopkins, and Ross Sandell, co-owner of Ombibulous in northeast Minneapolis, offer up some bourbon picks for dads.
Novice
Maybe your dad knows nothing about bourbon. If you’ve only ever seen him drink beer or rail drinks—or he likes to mix with soda—these reasonably priced, well-known bourbons are perfect for him.
Four Roses Yellow Label
A smooth Kentucky bourbon comes in at $34.99 per 1.75-liter bottle from Ace Spirits.
Wild Turkey 101
Another Kentucky bourbon, Wild Turkey 101 will run you $24.98 per liter from Ace Spirits.
Ordeal Straight Bourbon
A local option from Panther Distillery, this Minnesota-made bourbon is $27.99 for a liter at Ombibulous.
Intermediate
For the dads who like bourbon from time to time—but refuse to treat themselves—these classic bourbons will suit his tastes.
Old Forester 86
This Kentucky bourbon has been around since the 1800s and was sold as medicinal whiskey during prohibition. A liter costs $24.99 at Ace.
Elijah Craig Small Batch
This Kentucky bourbon was the first aged in charred barrels and costs $24.98 per liter from Ace.
Tattersall Rye Bourbon
This homegrown bourbon from Tattersall Distilling is priced at $51.00 for a 750-milliliter bottle at Ombibulous.
Advanced
For the dads who proudly call themselves whiskey nerds, snobs, or experts, these alcoholic delicacies will have them running for a glass on Father’s Day.
Wilderness Trail Silver Label
A newcomer compared to some of the other names on the list, this Kentucky bourbon distillery was founded in 2013. A 750-milliliter bottle costs $54.99 from Ace.
Rabbit Hole Dareringer
A sherry-finished Kentucky bourbon served in an elegant bottle coming in at $79.99 for 750 milliliters from Ace.