Helpful Hints to Begin Your Bourbon Journey

Nov 19

Hunting Season

So you live in a controlled state and work a typical 40-hour week. You clock in around 8 a.m., try not to stay past 5, and today—glorious, stressful, unpredictable today—is truck day at your local ABC store.

You rush out of work, politely hold the door for Susan (who really is an amazing receptionist), and wish her a great evening. The fall wind kicks up, sending crisp brown leaves swirling as you fumble with your keys, jump in the car, and fire up the engine. You’ve got one goal:

See what’s left on the allocated shelf.

You already know the Staggs are gone… but maybe, just maybe, there’s an Eagle Rare waiting for you?

If you live in a controlled state, this scenario probably feels way too real. I’m not trying to trigger anyone’s bourbon-hunting PTSD, but let’s be honest: hunting in a controlled state is hard.

So how do you get a Stagg?

How do you backfill your favorite daily drinker?

How do you build a bourbon collection without sleeping in your car?

Fear not, fellow bourbon lovers—I’ve got some ideas.

1. Join the Community (It’s the Secret Ingredient)

My favorite part of the bourbon world isn’t the bottles—it’s the people. Rarely do you find a hobby full of folks who avoid drama, support each other, and happily set politics aside. This community genuinely wants you to succeed.

Start by using the tools already in your pocket:

Facebook, Instagram, and X (Twitter).

Search “[your city] + bourbon.”

Find local groups—public or private.

Groups like Bourbon & Banter have chapters in many metro areas. Search “bourbon charity” and you may find local auctions or fundraiser tastings. Networking opens doors, teaches the lingo, and puts you in the path of good people.

2. Attend Local Whiskey Events

If your community hosts bourbon or whiskey festivals—go.

In my area, we have huge outdoor events where a general admission ticket lets you try a ton of new expressions. You’ll meet enthusiasts, reps, local stores, and other hunters who can help you navigate the game.

3. Find Your “Underground”

If you’re wondering what I mean… go back to tip #1.

Once you build genuine connections, you’ll eventually get invited into private group chats, Discord servers, or text threads.

I’m part of a local chat with nearly 500 bourbon enthusiasts who talk daily and keep each other informed. These folks changed everything for me.

4. Make a Friend—One Real Friend

Friendship in the bourbon community is powerful.

I met one of my closest friends because Facebook was acting up and I reached out to help a stranger troubleshoot something in our group. That conversation turned into a bottle share, which turned into a bi-weekly gathering, which turned into a lifelong friendship.

You never know which simple interaction will build your bourbon family.

5. Don’t Be Afraid to Reach Out to Creators

I’m writing this article because I listened to Heather in a Tortured Bourbon episode asking viewers to send feedback via Instagram DM.

I reached out. She and B replied.

And now here I am—contributing to the team.

In fact, I found TB from a local Facebook group, thanks to an active member who posted one of their videos (thanks again, Steve!). One message can change everything.

6. Be Patient—Don’t Overpay Out of Impulse

You can overpay online anytime you want.

But if you network, ask questions, stay respectful, and include others in your journey, opportunities will appear.

Prices drop. Friends share. Someone brings a sample. Bottle shares pop up.

You won’t need to camp outside your store unless you just like the adventure.

7. Share and Be Shared With

Through connections alone, I’ve been able to try:

George T. Stagg
Thomas H. Handy
Multiple Staggs
Dusty Wild Turkey
Ultra-craft bourbons
Single barrel picks that would make your mouth water

And that’s because of one thing:

A group of friends who share what they have and are excited for others to experience something new.

A Community Worth Celebrating

The best part of this journey is the people who’ve become my chosen family:

Derek, JT, Alex, Nick, Brian, Jack, Heather, B, Katie, Dylan, Ian, David, Chris—and honestly dozens more. The list could go on until the Internet ran out of space. I owe this joy and connection to them.