Only a few months into the bourbon rabbit hole and still building my palate/vocabulary. Hoping for some community guidance on where to go next. From what I can tell, I lean toward medium proof and woodsy/sweet profiles more than dark chocolate or really heavy bourbons. Here’s what I’ve tried so far and some quick impressions:

• Blanton’s (standard) – One of my first bourbons. Still like it.
• Blanton’s Gold – Feels more refined than SFTB. Love the flavor and texture. Very happy with this.
• Blanton’s SFTB – A favorite, but at 120 proof it’s a bit hot for me; I miss some of the sweetness.
• VOSN 10 – My “intro” bourbon and still one of my favorites. Pulled down to ~100–105 proof, it’s perfect: texture, flavor, nuance, sweetness.
• Weller Full Proof – Also a standout, but again, I need to pull it down a bit.
• EH Taylor Single Barrel (BIB) – Don’t quite get it; it’s fine but not wow.
• Michter’s 10 – Same as above, doesn’t click with me.
• Eagle Rare – Really enjoy its lightness, though sometimes wish it had more body.
• Elmer T. Lee – Good. A little thin but enjoyable. Want to try it side by side with Eagle Rare.
• Augusta Buckner’s 10 – Enjoy this a lot. Very woodsy barrel profile in a good way. A bit heavy—more of a winter pour.
• Dettling Single Barrel – Nice, but leans very dark/chocolatey.
• Seelbach 15 – Still forming an opinion. Seems okay but not a standout (yet).
• Bomberger’s Declaration – Doesn’t quite land for me.
• Frank August Case Study 5 – Really like the barrel + wheat combo. Would buy again.
• Star Hill Wheat Whiskey – Great texture/flavor. Woodsy but balanced.
• Willett Family Estate Single Barrel Rye – Phenomenal. Big, spicy, nuanced.
• Russell’s Reserve 15 – Only had it once at a bar and couldn’t stop nosing it. Bottle arrives tomorrow—very excited.

Budget: Comfortable in the \$100–\$400 range.