Bourbon is more than just a spirit—it’s a visual art form that tells a story through its bottle design. Each iconic bourbon bottle is a carefully crafted piece of brand identity, blending heritage, creativity, and marketing genius. From distinctive shapes to memorable labels and unique closures, these ten bourbon bottles have transcended their functional purpose to become true design icons that collectors and enthusiasts cherish.
Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon
The crown jewel of bourbon bottle design, Blanton’s features a uniquely round bottle with eight different horse-and-jockey stoppers. Each stopper depicts a different stage of a horse race, creating a collectible element that makes every bottle special. The ornate, vintage-inspired label and hand-numbered design elevate it from a mere container to a work of art.
Maker’s Mark
Perhaps the most instantly recognizable bourbon bottle in the world, Maker’s Mark is famous for its signature red wax-dipped top. The hand-dipped wax seal is unique to each bottle, creating an artisanal touch that speaks to the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship. The simple, elegant label with its distinctive script lettering has become a design classic.
Find Maker’s Mark at Total Wine
Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve
The bottle design mirrors the bourbon’s legendary status—simple yet sophisticated. The classic, understated label with its vintage typography tells a story of family heritage. The elegant bottle shape and minimal design speak to the premium nature of this highly sought-after bourbon.
Find Pappy Van Winkle at Total Wine
Angel’s Envy
A modern design marvel, Angel’s Envy features a sleek, contemporary bottle with a unique port wine barrel finish that’s reflected in its design. The clean lines, minimalist label, and cork stopper create a premium look that stands out on any shelf. The subtle angel wing motif adds a touch of poetic branding.
Find Angel’s Envy at Total Wine
Wild Turkey 101
A bold design that matches its powerful bourbon, Wild Turkey’s bottle is all about rugged authenticity. The robust bottle shape, striking label, and prominent turkey logo create a no-nonsense aesthetic that reflects the brand’s heritage and strength. It’s a design that hasn’t changed much over decades, speaking to its timeless appeal.
Find Wild Turkey 101 at Total Wine
Woodford Reserve Double Oaked
Elegance personified, the Woodford Reserve bottle is a study in sophisticated design. The distinctive shape, reminiscent of a classic whiskey flask, features clean lines and a substantial weight. The label combines traditional typography with modern design elements, creating a perfect balance of classic and contemporary.
Find Woodford Reserve at Total Wine
Four Roses Single Barrel
The Four Roses bottle is a testament to vintage-inspired design. The label features an intricate, art deco-style rose emblem that harks back to the brand’s romantic origin story. The unique square bottle shape and elegant script create a design that stands out on any bar shelf.
Find Four Roses Single Barrel at Total Wine
Buffalo Trace
Embodying the spirit of Kentucky’s bourbon heritage, the Buffalo Trace bottle features a powerful buffalo emblem and a label that tells a story of tradition. The bottle’s shape is classic and sturdy, with a design that speaks to the brand’s long-standing history.
Find Buffalo Trace at Total Wine
Knob Creek
With its distinctively thick glass and robust design, Knob Creek’s bottle is all about strength. The heavy bottle, prominent label, and simple design reflect the full-bodied nature of the bourbon inside. It’s a bottle that feels substantial in your hand.
Jim Beam White Label
A design that has become a global icon, Jim Beam’s bottle is a masterclass in simplicity. The white label, clear glass, and distinctive shape have remained virtually unchanged for generations. It’s a design that speaks to accessibility and tradition.
These ten bourbon bottles are more than just containers—they are design statements that capture the essence of American craftsmanship and brand storytelling. Each bottle tells a unique story through its shape, label, and distinctive features. From the collectible stoppers of Blanton’s to the iconic wax seal of Maker’s Mark, these designs have become as legendary as the bourbons they hold.
Now Make A Great Old Fashioned
Now that you have your bourbon bottle in house, time to make some cocktails! Here is my list of both classic bourbon cocktails and a few new ones that work for every season!