In a notable achievement for comedian Jim Gaffigan, his bourbon brand, Fathertime Bourbon, has been awarded Best New Bourbon at the 2026 San Francisco World Spirits Competition for its product, The Caboose: Empty Nester Strength. This bourbon received an impressive score of 97 points, clinching a Double Gold Medal in recognition of its quality.

Fathertime was co-founded by Gaffigan and his friend, film producer Stu Pollard, in 2024. The brand’s offerings are creatively inspired by Gaffigan’s five children and include names like Firstborn Edition, Second Child Syndrome, and, of course, The Caboose. The Caboose: Empty Nester Strength is a Kentucky straight bourbon presented at a robust 121 proof, making it the fifth release in their lineup.

Gaffigan has established himself as a figure in the whiskey community, participating in whiskey-focused podcasts and events. Additionally, he has presented a bourbon-themed stand-up special titled “The Bourbon Set,” in collaboration with Old Forester.

Describing the bourbon, Gaffigan admits, “I’m (obviously) not a bourbon expert… but I did my research, and I know what I like.” He mentions that he hand-selected the bourbon and personally signed each bottle. Fathertime operates independently without backing from major spirit companies.

The Caboose’s unique recipe is crafted from 63% corn, 30% rye, and 7% malted barley, coming from undisclosed Kentucky distilleries. It’s offered in two proof points, with The Caboose: Empty Nester Strength priced at around $200.

Judges at the competition highlighted The Caboose’s remarkable aroma, noting hints of matcha tea, ginger, cookies, and lemon peel. They appreciated a palate filled with flavors like graham cracker, marshmallow, dried fig, and fruitcake, rounded off with an unexpected bubble gum note, leading to its high score.

To qualify for Best New Bourbon, products must be either newly launched within the past four years or fully reformulated versions of existing brands, achieving a minimum score of 96 points. The judges’ recognition reflects the bourbon’s standout qualities and craftsmanship.

For bourbon enthusiasts and Gaffigan fans alike, this recognition marks an exciting moment in the ever-growing whiskey industry, with Fathertime Bourbon now firmly established on the map.

At Jack Rose Dining Saloon in Washington, D.C., the focus has shifted away from competing for the title of having the largest whiskey selection in America. Previously, such claims were common among bars, often misleading. The bar, which offers between 2,500 and 2,800 whiskeys, has chosen to embrace a more genuine approach—they want their collection to reflect quality rather than quantity.

Owner Bill Thomas explains that while many establishments boast high bottle counts, they often have expressions that are never truly available for ordering or include bottles merely for display. In contrast, every whiskey on Jack Rose’s shelves is ready for customers to taste, allowing the list to evolve continuously. This commitment ensures that prices also reflect the current market, with the bar maintaining about 10,000 bottles in storage.

Thomas emphasizes their philosophy: “We are a library, not a museum.” This means that Jack Rose aims to make whiskey tasting accessible rather than forcing customers to gaze at rare bottles without ever sampling them. The pricing is set to encourage trying a variety of whiskeys, from everyday options costing around $6 to ultra-rare selections priced at $1,500 per ounce.

The selection process is rigorous; Thomas and his team ask whether they would personally recommend each whiskey in their inventory. They are particular about maintaining the quality of their offerings—only well-constructed spirits that justify their price points make the cut. This thorough gatekeeping process ensures that every bottle available is one worth enjoying.

Moreover, Jack Rose hosts exclusive release parties and whiskey dinners, featuring limited editions from renowned distilleries. With 800 barrels in Kentucky, the establishment works to pair their whiskey with fine food, enhancing the overall experience for patrons.

Since opening in 2011, the whiskey landscape has changed dramatically, especially after an influx of investors began producing subpar products that inflated the market. Thomas believes we are entering a golden age for whiskey enthusiasts, with prices becoming more reasonable while maintaining quality offerings. He asserts that now is arguably the best time in the bar’s history to be a whiskey lover.

For more information about Jack Rose Dining Saloon, you can explore their offerings and philosophy more through their website.

As grocery prices climb, the cost of enjoying a good whiskey has become a consideration for many. With the average price of whiskey skyrocketing, it’s essential to know which bottles offer great value. Here’s a look at some top picks priced under $30, alongside recommendations on what to avoid.

Recommendations

Buy: Jack Daniel’s

A perennial favorite, Jack Daniel’s sells around 14 million cases each year for good reason. With a history spanning over 150 years, its smoothness makes it suitable for cocktails or sipping. Jack Daniel’s offers an accessible price while maintaining quality, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Buy: Crown Royal Peach Whisky

Flavored whiskies often divide opinion, but Crown Royal Peach stands out for its smoothness and refreshing taste. This Canadian whiskey avoids the cloying sweetness that plagues many flavored options. It works wonders in cocktails like mojitos or whiskey sours and mixes well with lemonade, ginger beer, or iced tea.

Buy: George Dickel Rye Whisky

With a rich history and affordable price point, George Dickel Rye showcases the unique profile of rye whiskey. Its smooth, slightly fruity taste makes it excellent for classic cocktails like the Sazerac or Manhattan without overwhelming the drink.

Buy: Old Forester 100 Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon

This bourbon is a great value at about $25. It boasts a complex profile of vanilla, butterscotch, and oak, making it suitable for various cocktails or sipping neat. Its 100 proof offers a punch, ensuring you get your money’s worth.

Buy: Paddy Blended Irish Whiskey

Paddy’s is a smooth Irish whiskey that’s perfect for everyday drinking. It delivers a citrusy, fruity flavor that stands well on its own, making it a reliable option for anyone looking to explore beyond more famous Irish whiskies like Jameson.

Items to Skip

Skip: Fireball

Though it has a loyal following, Fireball’s overly sweet, syrupy texture and artificial cinnamon flavor have disenchanted many. A cheaper alternative to better-flavored options, Fireball might save you some cash but won’t provide a satisfying experience.

Skip: Jim Beam Red Stag

Once a favorite, Jim Beam’s Red Stag has changed over the years. Now, its artificial sweetness doesn’t deliver the nuanced black cherry flavor it promises. If you’re looking for quality in flavored bourbons, consider seeking alternatives.

Skip: Proper No. Twelve

Although co-founded by Conor McGregor, it’s best to judge this whiskey on taste alone, which hasn’t garnered much praise. Often described as lacking in redeeming qualities and taste components, it’s often viewed as a poor investment at around $24.

Skip: Old Charter

Old Charter has been criticized for its overwhelming sweetness and lack of complexity. While it may be a budget option around $15, many find it underwhelming compared to other offerings at similar prices.

Conclusion

When exploring whiskey options under $30, it’s essential to choose wisely. The selections above offer quality and versatility, while the ones to skip often fall short in flavor and overall satisfaction. Cheers to finding a bottle that suits both your palate and budget!

Among the various components that contribute to a great whiskey experience, the "finish" is surprisingly significant. This term refers to the aftertaste that lingers after the whiskey has been swallowed, offering flavors and sensations that are key to assessing its overall quality. The finish can vary greatly from one whiskey to another, and while subjective, it often serves as a reliable indicator of a spirit’s craftsmanship.

To gauge the quality of a whiskey through its finish, observers focus on three main attributes: intensity, complexity, and length. A whiskey that leaves little to no aftertaste, or features an off-note, generally signifies a young or poorly made spirit. Conversely, if the flavors experienced on the palate are present in the finish, or if new nuances emerge that linger pleasantly for an extended period, it indicates a well-crafted whiskey worthy of attention.

It’s essential to note that good-quality whiskey does not always come with a hefty price tag. Exceptional bourbons, such as Four Roses Single Barrel OBSV, priced around $40, are praised for their long finishes that feature rye spice notes. On the international front, whiskeys like India’s Indri Trini and Scotland’s Glen Scotia Double Cask stand out for their celebrated finishes, both available for roughly $50.

While a complex finish is a hallmark of higher quality spirits, it does not singularly define a great drinking experience. Many whiskeys showcase excellent flavors on the palate but might offer a shorter, cleaner finish. Paying attention to the finish, in conjunction with the whiskey’s appearance, aroma, and flavor profile, can greatly enhance one’s appreciation and understanding of the spirit.

For beginners, sampling whiskey neat at a well-stocked bar or participating in tastings can help in discovering preferences and improving tasting skills.

For more insights on whiskey appreciation, you can explore the original article on Chowhound.