The problem, friend, is that manhattans are not supposed to be made with Bourbon. Rye whiskey is where it’s at. Canadian if the bar doesn’t have any ryes (which isn’t common anymore, but it still happens some places). Heck, I’d pick Scotch (which makes it a Rob Roy) before choosing bourbon.

Just as a shout out - Rittenhouse Rye - Bottled in Bond of course (100 proof) is the greatest rye for the price - under $30. However, I applaud the idea of stepping stones to better whiskey. Hell, forget flavor profiles, talk to your bartender and try new things. Exercising your palate is like exercising a muscle.

I love Weller, and used to buy it a ton with the old label, but the fact that it’s basically out as budget Pappy makes it damn hard to find in the wild anymore.

ETA the old label.

Useful and fairly informative article, Patrick. I think this is a better space for you than those love and philosophy articles. Anyway...

I really wish word hadn’t gotten out that Weller is the same as Pappy. Leave me and my $20 bourbon alone!