How to Celebrate National Bourbon Day Like a Pro (Even If You’re New to Whiskey)

Events, Drink tips

Old Fashioned whiskey cocktail with ice and orange peel on a bar counter

🥃 Mark Your Calendar: National Bourbon Day Is June 14th

Whether you’re a lifelong bourbon fan or can’t tell the difference between a rye and a reserve, National Bourbon Day is the perfect excuse to pour a glass and learn a little something about America’s native spirit.

And no—celebrating doesn’t require a private barrel, collector’s stash, or even a deep knowledge of tasting notes. All you need is a bottle, a few good friends, and the right place to shop (hint: it’s Zipps Liquor).


📍 First Step: Where to Find Great Bourbon Near You

Search no further than your local Zipps Liquor. With dozens of locations across Texas and a convenient online shop, it’s easy to find your perfect pour.

✅ Looking for Buffalo Trace near me? We’ve got you.
✅ Want help picking the best bourbon for beginners? Ask any Zipps team member.
✅ Need it today? Shop online now and pick up in-store.


🏆 Top Picks: Best Bourbon for Beginners

If you’re new to bourbon, don’t stress. Start with smooth, approachable bottles that showcase what makes bourbon so lovable without overwhelming your palate.

Here are three of our favorite beginner-friendly picks:

🥃 Buffalo Trace

  • Why It Works: Rich vanilla, subtle spice, and incredibly smooth.
  • Serve It: Neat, on the rocks, or with a splash of water.
  • Pro Tip: It’s a fan favorite for a reason. Ask your local Zipps if it’s in stock—it goes fast!

🥃 Maker’s Mark

  • Why It Works: Sweet, mellow, and wheated—great for sipping or mixing.
  • Serve It: Great in an Old Fashioned or Whiskey Sour.
  • Price Point: Affordable enough for everyday sipping.

🥃 Elijah Craig Small Batch

  • Why It Works: Balanced flavor with caramel and oaky complexity.
  • Serve It: Try it with a large ice cube to open up the aromas.

🎉 5 Ways to Celebrate National Bourbon Day Like a Pro

1. Host a Tasting Flight

Line up 3–4 different bourbons (at different price points or flavor profiles) and sip your way through a fun at-home flight. Use scorecards or just rate them by “Would I pour this again?”

2. Make a Classic Cocktail

Go for bourbon’s greatest hits:

  • Old Fashioned: Bourbon, sugar cube, bitters, orange peel
  • Whiskey Sour: Bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup
  • Boulevardier: Bourbon, Campari, sweet vermouth

3. Pair It with BBQ

Few things go together better than bourbon and brisket. Fire up the smoker or order takeout from your favorite Texas BBQ joint. Add a bourbon glaze or sauce for extra flair.

4. Try It Neat (Just Once)

Even if you think you’re a mixer person, try sipping bourbon neat—just a small pour. Let it open up in the glass and take a slow sip. You might be surprised at the flavors you find.

5. Visit Zipps and Discover Something New

Whether it’s a store tasting event, a staff recommendation, or a bottle you’ve never heard of, visiting your local Zipps on National Bourbon Day is an easy way to learn and celebrate.


🧊 What to Know Before Your First Sip

Is Bourbon Always Sweet?
Not always, but many bourbons have naturally sweet notes from the corn mash and charred oak barrels.

Do I Need Fancy Glassware?
Nope. A short tumbler, mason jar, or even a Solo cup will work in a pinch. A Glencairn glass is great if you want to invest.

What If I Don’t Like It Neat?
Totally fine. Mix it with ginger ale, cola, or lemonade. You’re here to enjoy—not impress anyone.

Can I Start with a Cocktail Instead?
Absolutely. Many bourbon drinkers fall in love with whiskey through cocktails first.


🛒 Shop Bourbon Like a Pro

Zipps Liquor makes it easy to find what you need, from Buffalo Trace to bold craft picks. Here’s how we help:

  • 🥃 Selection: Bourbon for beginners, collectors, and everyone in between
  • 📍 Locations: From Spring to Palestine, Conroe to Magnolia, we’re across Texas
  • 💰 Prices: We keep the markups low and the inventory flowing
  • 💻 Online Ordering: Shop now and schedule pickup at your nearest store

📦 Popular Bourbons to Look For on National Bourbon Day

BourbonFlavor ProfileBest ForPrice Range
Buffalo TraceSmooth, vanilla, spiceBeginners & sippers$25–$30
Maker’s MarkSweet, mellowMixed drinks & sipping$28–$35
Elijah Craig Small BatchCaramel, toasted oakBourbon newbies$30–$40
Bulleit BourbonBold, spicyCocktails$30–$35
1792 Small BatchFull-bodied, smoky finishNeat drinkers$35–$40

Final Toast: Bourbon Belongs to Everyone

You don’t have to be a connoisseur to enjoy National Bourbon Day. Whether you’re sipping your first pour or building your home bar one bottle at a time, this June 14th is your chance to join the celebration.

So stop by Zipps Liquor, grab a bottle of Buffalo Trace, and raise a glass to one of America’s most iconic spirits.

Cheers, y’all.

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