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The Big Game isn’t just about football—it’s about tradition, celebration, and unforgettable moments shared with friends and family. Whether you’re rooting for a specific team, enjoying the halftime show, cooing over the Puppy Bowl, or just here for the party, the right bourbon can take your game day experience to the next level. Here are 5 reasons why bourbon is the MVP of your Big Game celebration—and the perfect bourbons to match. 1. Eagle Rare 10 Year Bourbon is about excellence, just like the Big Game, and Eagle Rare 10 Year delivers. Known for its refined yet bold character, it’s a perfect sip for fans who appreciate quality and timelessness. With its rich notes of toasted oak, candied almonds, and a smooth finish, this bourbon is a true winner. For Eagles fans: If you’re rooting for Philadelphia, this bourbon is a fitting tribute to the team’s strength and spirit. 2. Blanton’s Red Bourbon is meant to be savored during special occasions, and Blanton’s Red is a perfect fit. This single-barrel bourbon is as rare as they come, but it’s the exact opposite of the Kansas City Chiefs—whose trips to the Big Game are becoming anything but rare. With its rich caramel, dark fruit, and warm spice notes, Blanton’s Red is perfect for Chiefs fans celebrating another championship run. Why it’s perfect: The red label pairs perfectly with Kansas City’s team colors, making it a standout for Chiefs fans. 3. Kentucky Owl Batch 12 Game day gatherings are all about good company, great drinks, and a little fun—so why not lean into the "Superb Owl" theme with Kentucky Owl Batch 12? Known for its bold complexity and layered flavors of caramel, toasted oak, and dark chocolate, this bourbon is a natural fit for elevated celebrations. Why it works: The playful "Superb Owl" nickname makes this bottle a perfect conversation starter for the occasion. 4. Colonel E.H. Taylor Single Barrel Every great team needs a commanding presence, and on game day, Colonel E.H. Taylor Single Barrel is exactly that. With a bold flavor profile of spice, dried fruit, and oak, this bourbon takes the lead as the MVP of your whiskey collection. Its timeless craftsmanship and powerful presence make it the perfect sip for raising a glass to greatness. Command the moment: Just like the Washington Commanders, this bottle stands out with boldness; ideal for those who want to make a statement and savor true craftsmanship. 5. Blue Run Chosen (Custom Blend) For the fans who want something truly one-of-a-kind, Blue Run Chosen is the bourbon to beat. This custom blend is bold, memorable, and as exclusive as it gets. With its refined character and unique profile, it’s a bottle that ensures your Big Game celebration is just as special as the action on the field. Pro Tip: This limited-edition bourbon is as rare as it gets—grab it now to make your celebration unforgettable. Last Call for Game Day Shop these bourbons today at The Bourbon Concierge, located in Georgetown, DC. Visit us in-store or browse our website to secure your bottles in time for the game. Have a specific request? Reach out through our online form, and we’ll help you find the perfect bourbon for your celebration. Cheers to a Big Game Day done right!

Picture this: soft candlelight flickering against crystal glasses, the room aglow with the amber warmth of aged bourbon, and the subtle sweetness of dark chocolate melting luxuriously on your tongue. You exchange a glance—unspoken, knowing—before savoring another taste. This isn’t just a drink or a dessert; it’s a moment suspended in time, a quiet ritual steeped in intimacy and sensuality. The first sip is deliberate, the kind that spreads warmth across your tongue and lingers with a slow, satisfying burn. The next bite is darker, richer—velvet smooth with a sweetness that fades into a whisper of bittersweet longing, making you crave another taste. Together, the flavors entangle like a dance of spice and silk, drawing you deeper into their allure. What’s on your palate? The refined harmony of bourbon and chocolate—two indulgences crafted with time, care, and complexity. These are no ordinary pairings. They’re the finest expressions of their kind, brought together to create an experience that lingers long after the last taste. This is more than indulgence; it’s the beginning of a ritual—a celebration of connection, of moments shared, of a sensory journey that teases, delights, and stays with you forever. Celebrate With the Perfect Pairing True romance is found in the things you love, shared with the person who knows you best. Bourbon and chocolate are natural seducers, their history stretching back to ancient times when people first gathered to savor life’s pleasures. Over the centuries, both have been transformed into artisan crafts, perfected to offer the most luxurious, elevated flavor profiles imaginable. Bourbon’s warm spice teases out the bittersweet depths of chocolate, while chocolate smooths bourbon’s bold edges, leaving a finish that’s as satisfying as it is unforgettable. Together, they create a sensory experience that speaks to every desire: the heady aroma of aged oak, the melt-in-your-mouth texture of fine chocolate, and the way their flavors play—a harmony of heat and sweetness, contrast and intrigue, keeping your palate guessing and wanting more. On their own, they’re indulgent. Together, they’re irresistible. Let’s discover pairings that set the tone for your evening, matching the mood, the moment, and the connection you’re celebrating. Nutty Fruits Spicy & Smokey Creamy The Comfort of Caramel and Nuts Compatible in every sense, caramel and nutty flavors evoke a sense of ease, familiarity, and indulgence. They’re the flavors of soft warmth—think toasted pecans, ribbons of golden caramel, and creamy vanilla. Together, they weave a pairing that feels like coming home, wrapped in a richness that’s both inviting and utterly luxurious. Bourbons to Explore: Blanton’s Single Barrel – Smooth and elegant, with notes of honey, caramel, and a whisper of nutmeg to set the tone for your evening. Colonel E.H. Taylor Four Grain Bourbon – This rare bottle brings nuanced complexity with hints of toasted grain, caramel, and subtle nutty undertones. Angel’s Envy Cellar Collection – Tawny Port Finish – Finished in port wine barrels, it offers subtle hints of maple and nuts that perfectly complement caramel’s warmth. Chocolates to Savor: La Maison du Chocolat Hazelnut Pralines – Silky praline filling encased in rich chocolate, offering a delicate crunch and a perfectly balanced sweetness that intrigues the palate. Debauve & Gallais Pralines – Crafted for royalty, these pralines marry roasted nuts and luscious chocolate in a symphony of elegance and indulgence, delivering an unforgettable experience. The Flavor Experience: The roasted nuttiness of praline or hazelnut chocolate highlights the oak and vanilla notes in the bourbon, while the caramel’s buttery sweetness mirrors the bourbon’s own rich, honeyed undertones. Together, they create a finish that is warm, lingering, and deeply satisfying—like a moment of quiet indulgence that stays with you long after the last sip and bite. Pairing these flavors is a celebration of comfort, connection, and a richness that feels timeless. The Mystery of Dark Fruit Dark fruit flavors are alluring and complex, offering a sense of intrigue and intensity. Black cherries, dried figs, and candied orange peel bring a lush richness that pairs beautifully with the bold complexity of bourbon. Together, they create a pairing that feels indulgent and just a little dangerous, perfect for moments of bold connection and exploration. Bourbons to Explore: Eagle Rare 10 Year – Balanced and refined, with notes of ripe cherry, cocoa, and leather. 2023 Four Roses 135th Anniversary Limited Edition Small Batch – Layers of dark fruit, rich oak, and baking spices that complement the pairing theme of intrigue and intensity. Knob Creek 18 Year - Batch 2 – Deep and robust, with flavors of dried fruit, toasted nuts, and a hint of caramel. Chocolates to Savor: Teuscher Dark Chocolate Orange Peel – Candied orange zest wrapped in bittersweet dark chocolate for a bright, citrusy contrast. Marcolini Grand Cru Dark Chocolate Squares – Crafted from rare, single-origin cocoa, these squares reveal layers of nuanced berry notes and a velvety, luxurious finish. The Flavor Experience: The ripe cherry and cocoa notes in bourbon complement the dark, bittersweet richness of fine chocolate, while hints of candied citrus or dried fruit add a vibrant, unexpected brightness. Together, they create a pairing that’s layered, sultry, and endlessly intriguing, leaving your palate curious for what comes next. The Fire of Spice and Smoke Spicy and smoky flavors ignite the senses, creating a pairing that feels bold, daring, and impossible to forget. Think cracked pepper, smoky oak, and subtle hints of clove or cinnamon—flavors that awaken the palate and add depth to the experience. Bourbons to Explore: 2024 Sazerac 18 Year – Bold and peppery, with notes of clove, vanilla, and citrus for balance. Wild Turkey Master's Keep Cornerstone – Layers of toasted oak, baking spice, and a smoky finish. Elijah Craig 18 Years Old– Deep and robust, with flavors of charred oak, black pepper, and caramelized sugar. Chocolates to Savor: François Pralus Barre Infernale Pistache – A decadent dark chocolate bar filled with roasted pistachios and a hint of subtle spice, creating a bold and indulgent experience. Debauve & Gallais Piment d'Espelette Truffles – Handcrafted truffles infused with the delicate heat of Espelette pepper, enveloped in smooth dark chocolate for an exquisite balance of spice and elegance. The Flavor Experience: The spice and smoke in the bourbon mirror the heat and intensity of chili-infused or deeply roasted chocolate, creating a pairing that feels alive on the palate. The interplay of bold flavors softens into a smooth, lingering finish, where hints of vanilla and caramel emerge, leaving a smoky-sweet memory that demands another taste. The Indulgence of Cream and Salt Creamy and salty flavors are the epitome of indulgence, offering a velvety richness that soothes and satisfies. From buttery caramels to salted ganaches, these pairings are designed for moments when luxury is the only option. Bourbons to Explore: Elijah Craig 18 Years Old – Deep and robust, with flavors of toffee, vanilla, and toasted oak that exude decadence and refinement. Old Forester Birthday Bourbon 2024 – A rich and bold bourbon with a smooth caramel base, hints of butterscotch, and a velvety finish, pairing beautifully with salted caramel or creamy chocolates. Michter's Bourbon Sour Mash Toasted Barrel – Elegant and smooth, featuring warm caramel and subtle oak for a perfectly indulgent experience. Chocolates to Savor: François Pralus Salted Butter Caramel Truffles – Decadent salted butter caramel centers enrobed in rich chocolate, offering a velvety texture and a sophisticated balance of sweetness and salt. Pierre Hermé Caramel Bonbons – Luxurious bonbons featuring creamy caramel infused with hints of vanilla and sea salt, wrapped in a delicate shell of fine chocolate for an unforgettable treat. The Flavor Experience: The creamy texture of caramel chocolates envelops the bourbon’s spice and oak, while a hint of sea salt brightens the flavors, revealing layers of toffee, vanilla, and dark fruit. Together, they create a pairing that’s impossibly smooth and endlessly indulgent, wrapping your palate in pure luxury. Let Us Guide Your Indulgence Every unforgettable evening begins with the perfect pairing. The warmth of bourbon, the sweetness of chocolate, and the way they tease your senses—these are the details that elevate a simple celebration into something extraordinary. Together, they create a ritual of indulgence, a moment that lingers on your palate and in your memory. At The Bourbon Concierge, we know that finding the perfect bottle is as personal as the moment you’re creating. Whether you’re searching for a rare treasure, a timeless classic, or the bourbon that sets the mood just right, we’re here to guide you. We offer our expertise to help you discover the flavors that speak to your senses. Why settle for ordinary when perfection is just a sip away? Contact us to explore your options or browse our carefully curated selection to start planning your next moment of indulgence. With bourbon in hand and chocolate on your lips, the rest of the evening is yours to create.   Preview image by Tamas Pap on Unsplash

Expanding your bourbon and spirits collection can feel overwhelming, especially when you're searching for that perfect balance between luxury and accessibility. You want something special—luxurious enough to sip and savor, yet not so exclusive that it’s out of reach. Fortunately, there are plenty of bottles that offer a refined, premium experience without requiring an ultra-premium price tag. These spirits are perfect for anyone who is starting to build their collection or looking for a meaningful gift for someone who appreciates quality. In this guide, we’ve curated a selection of spirits that are meant to be enjoyed neat. Each bottle represents a combination of craftsmanship and complexity, making them ideal for savoring or for gifting to someone ready to dive deeper into the world of fine spirits. Whether you’re expanding your personal collection or gifting a bottle to someone special, these spirits are sure to make a lasting impression. The Luxury of Mid-Level Spirits When it comes to spirits, finding the right balance between quality and price can be a delicate art. While entry-level bottles are great for cocktails and experimentation, mid-level spirits are where the true luxury begins to shine. These bottles are perfect for sipping neat, allowing you to fully appreciate the nuances of their aging process, craftsmanship, and complex flavor profiles. These spirits aren’t just for expanding your own collection—they make thoughtful, impressive gifts for someone who appreciates fine spirits. Whether it’s for a special occasion or simply to impress a friend or colleague, these bottles offer a premium experience without overwhelming your budget. They strike the perfect balance between high-quality craftsmanship and a touch of luxury, making them memorable gifts that don’t require venturing into ultra-premium territory. How to Choose Your Next Bottle Choosing your next bottle isn’t just about picking something expensive—it’s about finding a spirit that aligns with your preferences and offers a distinct, memorable experience. When selecting a mid-level luxury bottle, consider key factors such as the aging process, the distillery’s reputation, and the flavor profile you enjoy. Think about what makes a bottle stand out to you. Are you drawn to the smoky, peaty richness of a well-aged Scotch? Do you prefer the complex botanical notes of a refined gin? Or perhaps the smooth, full-bodied depth of a finely crafted bourbon is more your style? Each bottle should reflect the kind of experience you want to savor, whether for yourself or as a thoughtful gift for someone else. With that in mind, here’s a curated list of luxurious spirits that are sure to elevate your collection—or make the perfect gift for someone special. Our Favorite Luxurious, Affordable Spirits Here’s a curated list of luxurious spirits that deliver a premium experience without the luxury price tag. These bottles are perfect for sipping neat, offering deep, complex flavors that are meant to be savored. Bourbon Michter’s Bourbon 10 Years Old - 2017 – A rich, full-bodied bourbon with deep caramel and oak flavors, offering a premium feel without crossing the ultra-expensive line. Wild Turkey Master's Keep Bottled in Bond 17 Years Old – A long-aged bourbon with incredible depth, this bottle is perfect for those who want to experience the complexity that comes with extended aging. W.L. Weller CYPB Craft Your Perfect Bourbon – A sought-after wheated bourbon that offers a luxurious sipping experience at a reasonable price point. Scotch & Whisky Macallan 15 Year Double Cask – A perfect starting point for those exploring Macallan’s diverse range. This Scotch balances the sweetness of American oak with the rich flavors of sherry-seasoned European oak, making it an ideal bottle for both newcomers and Macallan fans looking to expand their collection. Macallan Edition 4 Single Malt Scotch – A collectible Macallan that offers premium quality and a rich flavor profile, ideal for someone looking to add a distinctive bottle to their collection. The Yuza Single Malt Japanese Whisky – A newer whisky on the market, but already gaining a reputation for quality and luxury. Its smooth, refined profile makes it a must-have for collectors. Hibiki Blossom Harmony 2022 Japanese Whisky – Known for its balance and elegance, this whisky offers a floral and fruity profile that feels both luxurious and delicate. Gin Ki No Tea Green Tea Dry Gin – A premium Japanese gin that incorporates green tea botanicals, delivering a smooth, luxurious feel. Its unique profile makes it a standout among gins. Monkey 47 Gin – Known for its complex botanical profile, this gin offers a luxurious taste experience that feels high-end while remaining accessible. Perfect for sipping, it’s a great choice for those who enjoy nuanced, botanical-driven spirits. Tequila Don Julio 1942 Anejo Tequila – This well-regarded tequila is smooth, rich, and perfect for sipping. It offers a premium experience at a mid-level price, making it a favorite among tequila enthusiasts. Clase Azul Gold Tequila – Both visually stunning and delicious, this tequila feels high-end with its blend of reposado and añejo, delivering a rich, creamy taste profile. Enhancing Your Bourbon Collection Whether you’re looking to elevate your own collection or find the perfect gift for someone who appreciates fine spirits, these bottles strike the perfect balance between luxury and accessibility. Each one offers a refined, complex experience that can be savored and enjoyed on special occasions, or gifted to impress without breaking the bank. At The Bourbon Concierge, we pride ourselves on helping you find the ideal bottle—whether it’s to complete your collection, start a new journey with a different brand, or give a memorable gift. If you’re ready to explore these luxurious options, contact us today to find the perfect bottle that fits your needs.   Photo by cottonbro studio

Autumn is the season of warmth, reflection, and tradition—a perfect time to indulge in spirits that bring depth and complexity to every glass. As the air turns crisp and leaves begin to fall, our team at The Bourbon Concierge has carefully selected their favorite bottles to match the mood. From bourbons that deliver rich, spiced flavors to aged whiskies, and unexpected picks like rum and tequila, these spirits capture the essence of fall. Whether you're savoring a quiet evening by the fire or sharing a bottle with friends, our handpicked recommendations are ideal for embracing the season’s cozy spirit or finding that perfect gift. Why Bourbon Feels Like Fall Bourbon is more than just a drink—it’s an experience that perfectly complements the fall season. The cooler weather calls for warmth and depth, and bourbon delivers both in spades. But what makes a bourbon particularly suited for autumn? Flavor Profiles That Warm the Soul Bourbon’s natural tasting notes of caramel, vanilla, toasted oak, and spice create a cozy, warming effect, making it a go-to for fall. These rich and complex flavors evoke memories of baking pies, sipping hot cider, and gathering around a bonfire on crisp evenings. Spicier, Fuller Bodies As the weather cools, it's time to reach for bourbons with a bit more kick. Fall is perfect for higher-proof bourbons or those aged in charred barrels, often offering notes of cinnamon, clove, and pepper. These spices mirror the warming sensations we crave in colder weather. Staff Recommendations Annie, our Manager & Spirits Concierge, recommends: Michter’s Toasted Rye Michter’s Toasted Rye is the ultimate cold-weather whiskey. A limited edition, this rye is double-barreled, first in charred American oak, then finished in toasted barrels, giving it an extra layer of flavor. The result? A smooth, rich rye with notes of caramel, toasted marshmallow, warm spices, and a hint of smoke—perfect for autumn evenings. Bold yet balanced, this is an ideal companion for cozy nights or festive gatherings. Jay, our VP of Private Barrel Experiences, recommends Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Single Barrel “The Bourbon Concierge” Private Selection Elijah Craig Barrel Proof is the quintessential fall bourbon for those who crave bold, full-bodied flavors. Bottled straight from the barrel without dilution, this bourbon delivers robust notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and cinnamon, with a long, warm finish that perfectly complements cooler weather.  The Bourbon Concierge selection was hand selected by Jay and the team as an exclusive release just for customers of our shop. This single barrel is not featured anywhere in the country and really provides an extra-deep dive into how structured and drinkable Elijah Craig releases can be.  The high proof offers an extra layer of intensity while maintaining a rich, balanced flavor profile. Whether enjoyed neat or with a splash of water, our Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Selection is an ideal choice for savoring the season's hearty meals and crisp evenings by the fire. The Appeal of Older, Vintage Spirits in Cooler Months Fall and winter bring out collectors and connoisseurs alike, and there’s a reason older, vintage spirits feel right for the colder months. These are often complex, nuanced, and best enjoyed slowly—perfect for intimate gatherings by the fire. Deeper Flavors and Complexity Spirits that have spent years aging in barrels develop richer flavors of oak, dried fruit, and spice. These notes align perfectly with hearty fall meals and desserts, creating an indulgent tasting experience that matches the season. A Sense of History and Tradition Older and vintage spirits evoke time-honored traditions, making them ideal for fall celebrations, like Thanksgiving or holiday dinners. Their depth and warmth add to the comfort and nostalgia of the season. Staff Recommendations Craig, our President & Head of Spirits Archeology, recommends: Weller’s Antique Reserve 10-Year, 110 Proof (1960s) A rare vintage from the 1960s, Weller’s Antique Reserve 10-Year, 110 Proof is a stitzel weller distilled bourbon with a beautifully complex flavor profile featuring rich notes of caramel, toasted oak, and sweet apple. Its 110 proof delivers a bold intensity, perfect for cold fall nights, while the Bottled-in-Bond designation guarantees authenticity and quality. With its full-bodied warmth and deep, classic flavors, this bourbon is a standout choice for collectors and cozy autumn evenings by the fire. Zach, our Spirits Concierge, recommends: George T. Stagg A standout in the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, George T. Stagg captures the essence of a true #KentuckyHug. With rich notes of dark chocolate, caramel, tobacco, and oak, this powerhouse bourbon is perfect for cooler weather. Its higher proof ensures a long, lingering finish that wraps you in warmth—just like a fall evening by the fire. Non-Bourbon Spirits That Belong in Your Fall Rotation While bourbon may take center stage, other spirits offer their own fall-friendly flavors. From rum to aged tequila, and even wine, these options round out your fall collection and bring new dimensions to autumn sipping. Rum for Richness and Spice Aged rums, with their molasses, caramel, and spice undertones, are ideal for sipping on chilly autumn nights. Pair them with seasonal desserts like apple crisp or pecan pie for the ultimate indulgence. Bourbon Concierge Recommendation: Diplomatico Ambassador Rum Aged for 12 years in American oak barrels and finished in Pedro Ximénez sherry casks, Diplomatico Ambassador Rum delivers a luxurious blend of rich caramel, dried fruit, and spices. With notes of nutmeg, raisin, and chocolate-covered orange peel, this smooth and complex rum is a perfect post-dinner treat to enjoy by the fire. Aged Tequila for Earthy Warmth Añejo tequilas, with their warm, earthy flavors, are perfect for fall. Vanilla, oak, and dried fruit notes make them as comforting as a fine bourbon. Bourbon Concierge Recommendation: Fortaleza Reposado Winter Blend Fortaleza Reposado Winter Blend offers rich, earthy tones with warm spices that make it an exceptional fall spirit. Aged in used bourbon and French oak barrels, it balances caramel, vanilla, and dried fruit flavors with a subtle smokiness. Ideal for sipping neat or paired with hearty autumn dishes, this tequila brings a new dimension to fall sipping. Wine for Warmth and Depth As the air cools, the deep, bold flavors of full-bodied red wines make them ideal for autumn. With rich notes of dark fruit, oak, and spice, these wines offer warmth and complexity, perfect for pairing with hearty fall dishes like roasted meats or mushroom risotto. Whether you're enjoying a glass by the fire or serving it with a festive meal, wine brings out the best of the season’s flavors. Emily, our Head of Growth, recommends: RDV Vineyards Rendezvous 2021 RDV Vineyards Rendezvous 2021 is an exceptional expression of craftsmanship, showcasing the elegance and complexity of Virginia's wine country. This full-bodied red blend features deep, concentrated notes of dark berries, with layers of vanilla and spice that give it a rich and inviting character. The wine’s smooth tannins and balanced acidity make it a standout for pairing with autumnal meals or enjoying on its own during cooler evenings. What makes this release even more exciting is RDV’s collaboration with Hunt Country, bridging the worlds of premium wine and bourbon. Their RDV x Hunt Country 9-Year Single Barrel Bourbon offers a unique connection between two refined palettes—an exclusive collaboration that brings out the best of both worlds in flavor and craftsmanship. This is the perfect time to explore RDV Vineyards’ exceptional offerings, whether you're a dedicated wine enthusiast or someone who appreciates the harmonious relationship between fine wine and high-end spirits. Cozy Up to Fall with These Seasonal Favorites Fall is the perfect time to savor the cozy, rich flavors of the season, and the spirits in our collection reflect just that. From bold bourbons to unexpected seasonal picks like aged rums and tequilas, every bottle in this guide is available at The Bourbon Concierge. Whether you're sipping by the fire or looking for the perfect gift, our fall favorites are here to make this season unforgettable. Ready to sip the season? Buy one of our fall favorites today or contact us for personalized recommendations to find your perfect autumn spirit. Whether you’re adding to your collection or searching for a memorable gift, our team is ready to help you find a bottle that truly captures the essence of fall. Photo by Askar Abayev.