“… you don’t know what you got till it’s gone.” – Counting Crows 

I grew up in Atlanta, where I thought that the worst alcohol related law was the inability to purchase on Sunday. Well, now that I have lived in North Carolina, I can say without a doubt, that the worst alcohol related regulation is the ABC store. Don’t get me wrong, there are some perks. I pay MSRP, and sometimes get a discount on my favorites like Four Roses. However, due to how the ABC runs (the state controls distribution), it can be impossibly difficult to find bourbons on my wish list. 

The system is centralized, so local ABC stores get their allotment. Yes, Eagle Rare and Buffalo Trace will be delivered to my ABC, but it’s a case and it will be gone within 15-30 minutes. If I want a bottle of Blanton’s, I have to enter a state lottery. 

It’s true, I’m probably becoming a grumpy old man that remembers the good old days of buying a bottle of W.L. Weller Special Reserve for $10. However, I can only enjoy so much Elijah Craig without longing for some variety. That’s where buying my bourbon online comes in handy. 

Fortunately, the ABC laws do not restrict purchasing a bottle of bourbon from California and importing it into North Carolina (some states might have different restrictions). Market prices for bourbon have started to adjust downward, thanks to Covid era purchases dying down and folks simply drinking less. That means there’s an opportunity to find your favorite spirits for slightly less, but still more than MSRP. 

Here are my favorite online shops for scratching your bourbon itch: 

Wooden Cork: A Bourbon Lover’s Paradise 

I’m thrilled to share my enthusiasm for Wooden Cork , an exceptional online liquor store that’s revolutionized the way I discover and purchase bourbon. Their ingenious bourbon bundles are a major draw, offering a unique way to explore different expressions while enjoying discounts. 

Gift of Bourbon 

I was recently gifted a fantastic bundle that included three esteemed bourbons: Blanton’s , Eagle Rare , and W.L. Weller . This thoughtful present not only introduced me to new flavors but also demonstrated the value of Wooden Cork’s bundles as a gifting option. 

Discounts and Rare Finds 

Wooden Cork’s bundles provide an opportunity to squeeze out a discount while exploring an array of bourbons. From Pappy Van Winkle to Blanton’s and Weller bundles, there’s something for every bourbon enthusiast. But that’s not all – the store also features rare finds like Four Roses 130th Anniversary 2018 and a full horse set of Blanton’s Original Single Barrel bottles .

Caskers: The Ultimate Spirit Destination 

Caskers is the perfect platform for bourbon enthusiasts who also appreciate a wide range of other spirits. I’ve had the pleasure of using their services for corporate gifting, special occasions, and exploring new tequilas. 

Unparalleled Bourbon Selection 

One of my favorite aspects of Caskers is their extensive bourbon collection. This allows me to discover hidden gems that I wouldn’t find at my local ABC store, and might have otherwise missed without spending hours on bourbon forums. 

• Explore rare and limited editions : From Buffalo Trace to Maker’s Mark Cellar Aged Limited Edition, Caskers has it all. 
• Discover new favorites : With their vast selection, you’re bound to find a new bourbon to add to your collection. 

Rewards Program 

Caskers also offers a rewards program that provides benefits such as: 

• Lower shipping rates 
• Exclusive member perks 

This program is a great way to enhance your overall experience and make the most of your spirit shopping. 

The Bourbon Connoisseur’s Silver Lining 

While the ABC store system may have its drawbacks, the ability to purchase bourbon online has opened up a world of possibilities for those seeking variety and hard-to-find bottles. By exploring online shops like Wooden Cork and Caskers, bourbon enthusiasts can discover new favorites, build their collections, and even find great deals on rare releases. So the next time you’re longing for a specific bourbon, remember that there’s a whole world of online options waiting to be uncorked.