In the hierarchy of flavored whiskeys, there’s arguably none as popular as cinnamon. And when it comes to cinnamon whiskey, Fireball sits at the top of the spicy, sweet, boozy mountain. It’s a favorite at tailgates, get-togethers, and everywhere drinkers need a whiskey with a warming, spicy kick. But, while Fireball is extremely popular, it’s not for everyone. It’s also not the only cinnamon-flavored whiskey on the market.
In my years of imbibing alcohol, I’ve had a chance to try Fireball a handful of times. It was mostly at NFL tailgates. While I have no problem with it, I can understand that drinkers might want to try something different. Luckily, there’s a lot to choose from when it comes to cinnamon whiskey.
What is cinnamon whiskey?
As a little background, cinnamon whiskey is, at its essence, simply a whiskey flavored with cinnamon. But it’s a little more complicated than that. It’s infused with cinnamon flavoring, actual cinnamon sticks, or other spices and sweeteners. Depending on the brand, it can be made with a variety of whisk(e)ys, including Canadian whisky (like Fireball), bourbon, rye, whiskey liqueur, and more.
What does cinnamon whiskey taste like?
You probably won’t be surprised to learn that cinnamon can be an overpowering flavor. Depending on the brand, you likely won’t taste much of the actual whiskey or whiskey liqueur. Cinnamon whiskeys vary in flavor from sugary and sweet to spicy and warming. This is because some brands add other ingredients like spices and extra sweeteners. To add heat, some brands even use chili flakes and dried red peppers in the recipe.
The best cinnamon whiskey beyond Fireball
Now that you’ve learned a little about cinnamon whiskey, it’s time to find some to add to your fall and winter bar cart. Below, you’ll find some of the best examples of the style that aren’t Fireball. Keep scrolling to see them all.
Evan Williams Fire
This 65-proof, cinnamon-infused bourbon is known for its flavor profile of sweet corn, honey, vanilla, and spicy cinnamon. It starts slowly and builds to a warming crescendo of sweet heat. Best enjoyed neat or on the rocks, this flavored whiskey is a great choice for the colder months.
Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire
Besides Fireball, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Fire might be the most popular cinnamon whiskey. And for good reason. This blend of cinnamon liqueur and sweet, rich Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 is filled with flavors like oaky wood, vanilla beans, and sweet, spicy cinnamon candy.
Jim Beam Kentucky Fire
This bold, warming, memorable cinnamon whiskey consists of a Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey blended with a cinnamon liqueur. The result is a multi-layered whiskey that features flavors like cinnamon candy, oak, vanilla beans, caramel, and dried fruits. Obviously, the overarching flavor is cinnamon, but that’s why you crack open this bottle in the first place.
BirdDog Hot Cinnamon
If you’ve never tried any of BirdDog’s flavored whiskeys, now is the time. BirdDog Hot Cinnamon is exactly as the name suggests. Made with Kentucky straight bourbon and natural cinnamon flavor, it’s loaded with notes of vanilla beans, toffee, charred oak, and spicy, warming cinnamon.
