The year 2020 was a rollercoaster for the world, but for bourbon lovers, it was a year of remarkable releases, innovative expressions, and a deepening appreciation for America’s native spirit. With distilleries pushing boundaries and collectors scouring shelves for limited editions, 2020 delivered a lineup of bourbons that ranged from accessible daily sippers to unicorn-level rarities. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore the best bourbons of 2020—bottles that defined the year through their flavor, craftsmanship, and cultural impact. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or a newcomer to the bourbon trail, this guide will take you through the standout pours of a memorable year.

What Makes a Bourbon “The Best”?

Before diving into the bottles, let’s set the stage. Bourbon, by law, must be made in the United States from at least 51% corn, aged in new charred oak barrels, and bottled at no less than 80 proof. But greatness transcends these basics—it’s about balance, complexity, and that indefinable magic that makes a sip unforgettable. In 2020, the best bourbons were judged by critics, competitions like the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC), and the ever-vocal bourbon community. Availability, value, and innovation also played a role, especially in a year when distillery tours were limited, and home sipping became the norm.

1. George T. Stagg (2020 Release) – The King of High-Proof Powerhouses

No bourbon review of 2020 would be complete without mentioning George T. Stagg, part of Buffalo Trace’s revered Antique Collection. The 2020 release clocked in at a robust 130.4 proof, slightly lower than some prior years but no less commanding. This uncut, unfiltered barrel-proof bourbon is a perennial favorite, and 2020’s batch didn’t disappoint.

Tasting Notes: The nose bursts with dark cherry, molasses, and charred oak, followed by hints of leather and cinnamon spice. On the palate, it’s a full-bodied beast—think caramel-drenched raisins, bitter chocolate, and a peppery kick that lingers into a warm, oaky finish. Adding a few drops of water opens up vanilla and tobacco notes, taming the heat without sacrificing depth.

Why It Stood Out: George T. Stagg is the gold standard for barrel-proof bourbon, and the 2020 release earned accolades for its balance despite its intensity. It took home Double Gold at the SFWSC, cementing its status as a must-have. The catch? Its limited allocation made it nearly impossible to find at its $99 MSRP, with secondary market prices soaring into the thousands.

Verdict: For those lucky enough to snag a bottle, it was the crown jewel of 2020—a bold, unapologetic bourbon that rewarded slow sipping.

2. Elijah Craig Barrel Proof (Batch B520) – The People’s Champion

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof has long been a darling of the bourbon community, offering high-proof excellence at a reasonable price. The second batch of 2020, labeled B520 (indicating May 2020), came in at 127.2 proof and quickly became a fan favorite.

Tasting Notes: The aroma is a rich tapestry of toffee, toasted almonds, and ripe apple, with a whisper of clove. On the tongue, it delivers a viscous wave of brown sugar, baking spices, and charred oak, finishing with a long, warming spice trail. It’s intense yet approachable, especially with a splash of water to coax out fruitier undertones.

Why It Stood Out: B520 struck a chord for its consistency and value—typically retailing around $70, it offered a near-perfect balance of power and flavor. Bourbon blogs and Reddit threads buzzed with praise, and it frequently topped “best of” lists for 2020. Unlike the unicorn Stagg, this one was more attainable, though still a hunt for many.

Verdict: A benchmark bourbon that proved you don’t need to break the bank (or your palate) for top-tier quality.

3. Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch 2020 – Elegance in a Bottle

Four Roses is synonymous with craftsmanship, and their 2020 Limited Edition Small Batch, bottled at 111.8 proof, was a masterclass in blending. Using four of their 10 unique recipes, this non-chill-filtered release showcased the distillery’s floral, fruity finesse.

Tasting Notes: The nose is a bouquet of orange zest, honey, and rose petals, with a touch of nutmeg. It drinks smooth and creamy, offering red berries, caramel, and a subtle rye spice that dances into a dry, oak-driven finish. At just over 100 proof, it’s deceptively easygoing.

Why It Stood Out: This bottle earned a Double Gold at the SFWSC and was lauded for its complexity and refinement. Limited to around 14,000 bottles, it sold out fast at $150, but its secondary market hype was less frenzied than Buffalo Trace’s offerings, making it a sleeper hit among collectors.

Verdict: A sophisticated sipper that highlighted Four Roses’ artistry—perfect for those who prefer elegance over brute strength.

4. Old Forester 150th Anniversary (Batch 1) – A Milestone Masterpiece

Old Forester celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2020 with a series of special releases, and Batch 1—a single barrel bourbon at 125.6 proof—set the tone. Drawn from barrels aged for over a decade, it paid homage to the brand’s legacy as America’s first bottled bourbon.

Tasting Notes: Expect a nose of butterscotch, dried apricot, and sweet oak, with a faint herbal edge. The palate is lush and chewy, delivering waves of caramel, dark fruit, and a peppery rye bite, finishing with a polished, lingering warmth.

Why It Stood Out: Released in tiny quantities (just 150 barrels total across all batches), it was a collector’s dream and a critical darling, earning high marks for its depth and historical significance. At $200 MSRP, it was a splurge that felt justified—if you could find it.

Verdict: A fitting tribute to Old Forester’s heritage, blending tradition with exceptional flavor.

5. Booker’s 2020-01 “Granny’s Batch” – Rustic Charm

Booker’s Bourbon, another high-proof legend from Jim Beam, kicked off 2020 with “Granny’s Batch” at 126.5 proof. Named in honor of Booker Noe’s grandmother, this uncut, unfiltered release brought rustic warmth to the table.

Tasting Notes: The nose is bold—peanut brittle, vanilla bean, and charred wood, with a whiff of cinnamon. It’s a palate-coating sipper, rich with toffee, roasted nuts, and a spicy oak backbone, ending in a long, fiery finish.

Why It Stood Out: Booker’s consistency is its strength, and “Granny’s Batch” was a standout for its approachable complexity. Priced around $90, it offered premium quality without the sticker shock of limited editions. It also resonated emotionally with fans thanks to its heartfelt backstory.

Verdict: A comforting, no-nonsense bourbon that paired perfectly with a cozy 2020 night in.

6. Wild Turkey Master’s Keep 17 Year Old Bottled in Bond – Aged Perfection

Wild Turkey dropped a bombshell in 2020 with Master’s Keep 17 Year Old, a bottled-in-bond expression aged for nearly two decades. At 100 proof, it was a departure from the brand’s typically bold profiles, offering a nuanced, mature sip.

Tasting Notes: The aroma is deep and inviting—think fig jam, old leather, and polished oak. On the palate, it’s silky, with notes of dark honey, stewed fruit, and a gentle spice that fades into a smooth, woody finish.

Why It Stood Out: This was Wild Turkey’s oldest Master’s Keep release to date, and its bottled-in-bond status added historical gravitas. Priced at $200, it was a luxury pour that didn’t rely on high proof to impress, earning praise for its restraint and elegance.

Verdict: A rare treat for those who value age and subtlety over intensity.

Honorable Mentions

• Knob Creek 15 Year Old: A limited release at 100 proof, this brought bold oak and caramel depth for around $100—a steal for its age.
• Blanton’s Gold: A 103-proof export favorite that trickled into the U.S., beloved for its silky texture and fruit-forward profile.
• Heaven Hill 7 Year Bottled in Bond: At $40, this was 2020’s value king—robust, spicy, and widely available until it wasn’t.

Trends of 2020: High Proof, Limited Releases, and Home Sipping

Looking back, 2020 was a year of extremes in bourbon. High-proof releases dominated, reflecting a growing appetite for bold, unadulterated flavors. Limited editions fueled a frenzy, with secondary market prices skyrocketing as distillery visits dwindled due to the pandemic. Meanwhile, everyday drinkers found solace in affordable gems like Elijah Craig and Heaven Hill, proving bourbon’s versatility in tough times.

How to Choose Your 2020 Favorite

If you’re hunting for a 2020 bottle today (circa March 2025), consider your palate and budget. Love intensity? Track down George T. Stagg or Elijah Craig B520. Prefer finesse? Four Roses Small Batch or Wild Turkey Master’s Keep might be your pick. For nostalgia, Old Forester’s 150th Anniversary carries weight. And if you’re on a budget, Booker’s or Knob Creek won’t let you down.

Final Thoughts

The best bourbons of 2020 weren’t just bottles—they were stories, triumphs, and companions in a challenging year.

From the fire of Stagg to the grace of Four Roses, these whiskeys showcased the diversity and passion of American distilling. Whether you sipped them then or seek them now, they remain benchmarks of a year that, for all its chaos, gave us something to toast to.