We are Pouring Over These Iconic American Liquors

The United States is home to a legacy of iconic liquor brands that have shaped the way we drink, celebrate, and unwind

Whether it’s an end-of-day pour or a new bottle for your bar cart, everyone has their liquor brand of choice. Maybe it’s a smooth Bourbon that tastes like warmth after a long day or a refreshing spritz that reminds you of the first days of summer. The United States is home to a legacy of iconic liquor brands- names that have shaped the way we drink, celebrate, and unwind. They’ve grown roots as staples in bars, restaurants, and homes all across the country.  

Here are some of the most iconic liquor brands, known for their quality, tradition, and American spirit. Some of them might be what you reach for most, and others not enough.  

Jack Daniel’s (Tennessee Whiskey)  

Lynchburg, Tennessee | Est. 1866 

Known as the Tennessee Whiskey, Jack Daniels staked its claim with the iconic square-shaped bottle and that black and white label. Carefully curated through the Lincoln County process, Jack Daniels offers a smooth and sweet pull, filtered through sugar maple charcoal and aged in charred oak barrels. Whether you’re sipping on some notables like Jack Daniel’s Old. No. 7, Gentleman Jack, or even Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Honey, there’s a distinct flavor everyone knows by name.  

If you find yourself in Savannah, Peregrin Rooftop Bistro has their own version of the classic “Old Fashioned,” and Nashville’s Harriet’s Rooftop does too. 

Jim Beam (Bourbon) 

Clermont, Kentucky | Est. 1795 

With notes of caramel, spice, and just enough charred oak to remind you it’s bourbon, Jim Beam has made a name for itself on being one of the most dependable pours in the industry. Birthed in 1795 in the state known for its bourbon supply, Jim Beam has 200 years of memories that you can taste in every sip.  

If you’re looking for a drink that highlights the history of Jim Beam Bourbon try a “Stillery Sour” at The Stillery or a “Kentucky Old Fashioned” at The Twelve Thirty Club in Nashville, Tennessee—one of our personal favorites.

Makers Bourbon

Loretto, Kentucky | Est. 1953 

One of many bourbons on our list of must-knows, Makers Bourbon offers a different twist and taste. Using wheat rather than rye, the brand brings a softness to bourbon that’s smooth and sweet, like a warm breeze on a mid-July afternoon. The notes Makers Bourbon brings sets the brand apart from others in the industry, and the unique and eye-catching red wax seal proves it. Some notables include the classic Makers Mark, Makers 46, and Makers Mark Cark Strength, give them a try.  

If you’re in Greenville, The Anchorage has a “Bourbon Sour”; or if you’re in Savannah, The Grey Rooftop has a “Bourbon Old Fashioned” that may just knock your socks off.

Bulleit Bourbon

Louisville, Kentucky | Est. 1987 

From the city with 10 letters but one syllable according to locals, Bulleit Bourbon is quickly becoming a fan favorite amongst bourbon lovers. The bourbon offers a sleek bottle that showcases the sunset-colored sips, with a bold and spicy flavor profile from its high rye content. Despite it being newer in the industry, the bourbon brand already has some fast-selling products besides the classic Bulleit Bourbon, including Bulleit Rye and Bulliet 10-year-old Bourbon.  

Check out The Peacock Lounge in the Hostess City of the South (you guessed it, Savannah) for their signature “Old Fashioned” with Bulleit Bourbon. If Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is your travel vibe, Million Dollar Cowboy Bar has their twist on a “Saddled Up Old Fashioned” you need to try. 

Buffalo Trace (Bourbon) 

Frankfort, Kentucky | Est. 1773 

Carefully created in Frankfort, Kentucky, Buffalo Trace has been in the bourbon business for more than 200 years and has the awards to prove it. The brand quickly became a mainstay for bourbon drinkers. With hints of brown sugar, spice, and a little bit of orange peel, it’s a bourbon you don’t want to miss. And thanks to the stunning glass bottle with the hand-sketched buffalo, it looks as good as it tastes. Some of Buffalo Traces most famous products include Eagle Rare and Pappy Van Winkle.  

Word on the street: the “Paper Plane” at The Kitchen is even better with Buffalo Trace Bourbon substitution. So, if you’re in the Jackson Hole area be sure to try a sip. If you’re further east, the Ritz-Carlton Bar in Amelia’s Island has quintessential “Smoked OId Fashioned” with the bourbon as the highlight of the show. 

Wild Turkey (Bourbon)  

Lawrenceburg, Kentucky | Est. 1885 

There’s something to be said for free-range living—whether it be animals or bourbon. Wild Turkey Bourbon is a brand that stands tall for their straightforward and bold take on the classic sip. With bold yet rustic flavors, the company has created standouts including Wild Turkey 101, Wild Turkey Rare Breed, and Wild Turkey Kentucky Spirit. One pull will take you to the backcountry of Kentucky, with a kick of spice smoothed by char for good measure.  

If you’re in the Austin area, snag a reservation with Small Victory to try their “Mint Julep” and get a taste of their rustic take with Wild Turkey Bourbon.  If you’re looking for something a little different, Jackson Hole’s Il Villaggio Osteria has a “Kentucky Mule.” 

Sazerac (Rye Whiskey) 

New Orleans, Louisiana | Est. 1850 

Heading further down south where the only thing smoother than the jazz might just be the whiskey, Sazerac was born in the heart of New Orleans. With history rooted in the French Quarter, Sazerac is not only one of the oldest American spirits brands but is also the name of Nola’s most classic cocktail. Reviving rye whiskey, Sazerac’s most notable products like Peychaud’s Bitters certainly let the good times roll.  

Not in Nola? No worries. You can try  Midnight Cowboys’ Sazerac drink in Austin, or Davani’s in Greenville, South Carolina has a classic take on a Sazerac cocktail too. 

Southern Comfort (Whiskey Liqueur) 

New Orleans, Louisiana | Est. 1874 

Southern Comfort might look like a slow stroll through your small-town square or fresh baked cornbread cooling on the counter—but for others it might simply be a fruity whiskey liqueur with deep southern roots. This brand is found in many quintessential cocktails like a classic Old Fashioned or a refreshing whiskey sour. Regardless of how you take it, Southern Comfort adds to Southern American cocktail culture. Some notables other than its tried-and-true whiskey liqueur include Southern Comfort 100 proof and Southern Comfort Black.  

If you’re looking for a “Smoked Old Fashioned,” The Decantry in Amelia’s Island offers a timeless taste on the drink. And in Greenville, South Carolina’s, Soby’s has their very own “Southern Comfort Old Fashioned.”

Tito’s Handmade Vodka  

Austin, Texas | Est. 1997 

Despite being a bit newer to the market, Tito’s has become one of the top-selling vodka brands in the country for its consistency and clean taste. Its versatility and hand-crafted nature has made it a staple among cocktail connoisseurs and is a staple in everyone’s counter.  

Want to give it a go? If you’re in the Jackson Hole area, the “Lavender Vodka Lemonade” at Gather is a must-try. Further down south, Fort Worth’s The Usual has their own take with Tito’s, the “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell.” 

Fireball (Cinnamon Whiskey Liqueur)  

Louisville, Kentucky | Est. 1984 

If you’re in the market to sip something equal parts sweet, spice, and cinnamon, Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey is just for you. Whether it’s taken like a shot or stirred with your favorite mixes, Fireball is a versatile must-have that will take a cocktail to a cocktail party in seconds. 

Austin’s Firehouse Lounge has their own twist on Fireball—literally, with their “Fireball Twist” and Jackson Hole’s Bin22 has their “Fire & Ice.”

The Glenlivet (Scotch Whisky)  

Speyside, Scotland | Est. 1824 

Yes we know, Scotland is on the other side of the pond; but despite the international ties, Glenlivet is a fan-favorite in the States—helping shape the time-honored single malt Scotch. Known in the U.S. for its uniquely smooth and complex flavor profile, Glenlivet is one you can find on any shelf. Some specific notables to be tested are Glenlivet 12 Year Old, Glenlivet 18 year old, and Glenlivet Founders Reserve.  

You can find a drink with Glenlivet much closer than Scotland. In Fort Worth, Scat Jazz House has their iconic “Rob Roy” and Austin’s The Roosevelt Room has a “Scotch Old Fashioned.”

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About the Author

Chloe Castain is a dynamic writer and content creator who recently earned her degree in journalism from the University of South Carolina. During her time at USC, she honed her reporting and storytelling skills, contributing to both student publications and professional outlets. Chloe has made an impact as a news journalist while also flourishing as a content creator within the high-speed world of NASCAR. Her versatile portfolio spans in-depth reporting, feature writing, and multimedia storytelling. Chloe is also a respected contributor to Palomino County magazine, where her insightful pieces reflect her passion for community-focused storytelling and her evolving voice in contemporary journalism.