For comedian Jim Gaffigan, what started as a harmless pandemic-era pastime snowballed into a full-blown obsession that any bourbon drinker will recognize: the uncontrollable need to take it to the next level and commit fully to what is — let's be honest — a hobby with a drinking problem.

We go backstage with the band Dayseeker as they create their custom bourbon blend for Three Chord Bourbon's hands-on collaboration Backstage Series.

Among the countless whiskeys released in 2025, one rose unmistakably to the top. It distinguished itself not only in craftsmanship and character, but in its ability to leave a lasting impression long after the glass was empty.

Competition for Best Bourbon of the Year is as intense as it’s ever been, and 2025 offered no shortage of standout bottles. Even so, these five distinguished themselves in remarkable ways.

It was a banner year for rye, and narrowing the field to just five proved anything but easy.