What is a Tater in the Bourbon Community?

Diving into the world of bourbon brings excitement with the thrill of the hunt, the camaraderie of friendships, and the pure joy of tasting something new. Every time you secure a new bottle of Kentucky's liquid sunshine, it's an adventure. However, not everyone drinks their bourbon; some prefer to display it.

Understanding the Tater Phenomenon

In bourbon circles, individuals who collect bourbon primarily for display are dubbed "Taters." While this term might evoke frustration among some aficionados who believe in the consumption of bourbon, I take a different view.

The Hunt Over the Drink: Taters find joy in the acquisition of rare, exclusive, or high-value bourbons. Their thrill lies in the chase rather than the tasting.
Social Status: Displaying these bottles on shelves or social media platforms earns them a certain clout, but they often hesitate to open these treasures, missing out on the true experience.

Why Not Enjoy the Bourbon?

Memorable Evenings: Personally, I've found that some of the best memories are from tasting unusual or less-celebrated whiskeys with friends, whether due to budget constraints in college or the quest for the next hidden gem.
Bourbon's True Purpose: Bourbon isn't just for collecting; it's meant to be savored. It fosters moments of celebration, reflection, or sometimes even the challenge of appreciating a less-than-ideal pour.

Embracing the Tater

Instead of criticism, let's consider the Tater's journey as almost complete:

They're 90% of the way there, loving the hunt and the community around bourbon.
Generosity and Inclusion: Invite a Tater to share in your bourbon experience. Introduce them to well-loved, accessible bottles. Host a blind taste test or invite them to open a bottle you've been chasing for years.

Encourage Participation with NEAT: Whiskey Finder

If you're looking to expand your bourbon horizons, share your discoveries, or catalog your tasting notes, NEAT: Whiskey Finder! is your ultimate companion. Here's how:

Connect with Enthusiasts: See what others are exploring, share your thoughts, and find community.
Discover and Rate: Explore new bourbons, rate them, and help others in their bourbon quest.

Engage with Taters and Beyond: Bourbon is a journey of shared experiences. Let’s help Taters appreciate the full spectrum of what bourbon offers—beyond the bottle itself. Join the conversation, share your stories, and invite your friends to enjoy the bourbon life with us.

For more insights and to connect with fellow bourbon lovers, download NEAT: Whiskey Finder! today. Cheers to enjoying bourbon, not just collecting it!