The Rarity Code: What Makes a Bourbon Truly Rare and Collectible Today?

In the world of aged spirits, not every old bottle is considered rare. While age is a factor, rarity is defined by far more than the year stamped on the label. For those curious about how to find rare bourbon, it starts with understanding the markers collectors value. Production history, distillery changes, proof levels, packaging, and even regional availability can all affect how desirable a bourbon becomes over time. Some batches were discontinued, while others were released in such small numbers that even seasoned collectors struggle to find them today. A bottle's backstory often holds more weight than its vintage alone.