As December winds down and we start thinking about fresh starts, it’s the perfect time to set intentions – even for your bourbon journey. The new year is less about strict rules and more about exploration, curiosity, and savoring every sip.
Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon lover or looking to push your palate in new directions, these resolutions will inspire thoughtful, joyful tasting experiences for the year ahead.
Why December Is the Perfect Time to Start
The holidays are full of gatherings, flavors, and seasonal releases. It’s an ideal moment to reflect on the past year’s favorites and consider what you’d like to explore next. Starting now gives you time to taste intentionally and set realistic, enjoyable goals before the new year officially begins.
Try New Mash Bills & Finishes
Expand your palate by experimenting with bourbon styles you haven’t fully explored:
- High-rye bourbons: Discover spicier, structured pours.
- Wheated bourbons: Embrace soft, sweet, and approachable profiles.
- Dessert-style or finished bourbons: Try bourbons aged or finished in unique barrels, like rum, sherry, or toasted oak.
Swap familiar favorites for something new, even just one pour a month, and take note of how your tastes evolve.
Taste Intentionally
Approach bourbon tasting like a mindfulness exercise:
- Observe aroma, color, and mouthfeel.
- Note initial flavors, mid-palate complexity, and finish.
- Pair with small bites, chocolate, or cheese to understand complementary flavors.
Journaling your tasting notes can be both fun and enlightening, helping you track what excites your palate most.
Visit Distilleries or Events
Experiential tasting takes bourbon appreciation to the next level. Plan visits to distilleries, tasting rooms, or bourbon-focused events in 2026:
- Seasonal releases and limited editions often debut in winter/spring.
- Meet distillers and brand ambassadors to learn about the craft and stories behind each pour.
- Enjoy curated experiences that highlight flavor profiles and production techniques.
Set Bourbon Goals That Feel Joyful, Not Rigid
Bourbon resolutions aren’t about pressure, they’re about discovery. Examples:
- Try one new bourbon each month.
- Master one cocktail per season.
- Pair bourbon with food in creative ways.
- Host a tasting with friends or virtually.
Keep it flexible, enjoyable, and curiosity-driven – the goal is to enrich your bourbon experience, not check off a list.
The new year is an opportunity to sip thoughtfully, explore boldly, and celebrate your journey. Set resolutions that excite your palate, bring you joy, and connect you with the rich, flavorful world of bourbon.