Bourbon whiskey, though deeply rooted in the American South and strongly associated with Kentucky, has seen a surge in quality and variety from distilleries across the United States. Here’s to celebrating the top 10 bourbons that hail from outside the Bluegrass State:

1.WhistlePig Straight Rye– Hailing from Vermont, this rye-heavy bourbon alternative is a bold choice for whiskey aficionados looking for complex flavors and a long, satisfying finish.

2.High West American Prairie– Crafted in Utah, High West’s blend plays with rich notes of caramel and sweet corn, offering a smooth sipper that stands comfortably next to its Kentucky cousins.

3.Balcones Texas Blue Corn Bourbon– Distilled in Waco, Texas from blue corn, this bourbon bursts with a unique nuttiness complemented by hints of spice and chocolate.

4.Westward American Single Malt– Coming out of Oregon, Westward’s Single Malt steers away from traditional malt recipes giving a nod to bourbon lovers with its rich, malty sweetness and robust caramel flavors.

5.Woodinville Straight Bourbon– From the heart of Washington State, Woodinville’s bourbon is crafted using grains exclusively from the Pacific Northwest, offering tones of vanilla and crème brûlée alongside a smooth finish.

6.FEW Bourbon– Distilled in Illinois, FEW Bourbon offers an interesting profile rich with cherry wood-smoked malt abounding with spicy characteristics and undertones of caramel.

7.King’s County Distillery Bourbon– Straight from Brooklyn, New York, this youthful bourbon impresses with unprecedented maturity and balanced flavors that include hints of cinnamon and nutmeg.

8.McCarthy’s Oregon Single Malt Whiskey– Although it’s technically not a bourbon (it’s a single malt), McCarthy’s deserves honor for its peaty profile which offers an exceptional alternative to those seeking different dimensions in American whiskey.

9.Hudson Baby Bourbon– This New York state craft bourbon made history as the first legal pot-still whiskey to be distilled in New York since prohibition; it pleases palettes with its vanilla oak character entwined with spices.

10.Smooth Ambler Old Scout– Produced in West Virginia, Smooth Ambler offers vibrant notes of mint, oak and honey in their meticulously crafted bourbon that is full-bodied yet accessible to all types of bourbon drinkers.

These ten exemplary spirits dare to step out from under Kentucky’s shadow proving that exceptional bourbon can be found far beyond the traditional distilling hubs nestled within the South. Whether you’re a traditionalist or an explorer at heart when it comes to your tipple of choice, these non-Kentucky bourbons are well worth adding to your must-try list.