• Part 2 of an ongoing holiday gift selection series. Go here for part one.

Bourbon is the quintessential American spirit. Regulated by federal law as to content (at least 51% corn in the mash) and aging barrel composition (first-use American white oak), it starts off and ends up in the spotlight.

In addition to the mass-market brands such as Jim Beam, the world's top-selling bourbon, there are numerous small-batch labels that are great for gift giving. Here are a few of my favorites, with the first two coming from the Beam Global Spirits & Wine  Inc. small-batch collection:

BASIL HAYDEN'S

This is a superb eight-year-old spirit that has been a quality expression for many generations. It stems from master distiller Basil Hayden Sr.'s 1796 formula that was a nice balance of corn and rye.

That recipe results in a spicy, peppery yet gentle nip on the palate that is well balanced with the sweetness of the corn portion of the mash, leaving a clean, short aftertaste. Works well as a standalone sipping whiskey, but blends equally well with citrus, savory and sweet flavors in a mixed cocktail.

Suggested retail price: $36 for the 750ml bottle.

KNOB CREEK

This is a particularly good year to give this small-batch as a gift. A supply interruption during the summer, which the distiller says was caused by demand outstripping supply, has recently been corrected. The bottles now coming to market contain whiskey that began aging in 2000, making it the proper age for which Knob Creek is known. It also makes it a great conversation piece.

The smooth, 100-proof Kentucky bourbon is among the top tier of small batch sipping whiskies synonymous with the best in American distilling. I prefer it straight, with an ice cube or two to help open its complex profile of rich oak notes, caramel, vanilla and a slight hint of orange zest. Great stuff to enjoy by a cozy fire.

Suggested retail price: $32 for the 750ml bottle.

MAKER'S MARK BOURBON

When I visited the distillery a few years ago, I had the opportunity to hand-dip a bottle in the signature melted red wax -- and nearly went in up to my elbow.

My enthusiasm for Maker's Mark extends beyond the dipping action, however. It's a very mellow, slow whiskey thanks to the inclusion of more malted barlkey and wheat than its competitors. The lack of rye means a sweeter spirit. Makes a great Manhattan or mint julep cocktail.

Suggested retail price: $29 for the 750ml bottle.

WILD TURKEY BOURBONS

This brand came about just before World War II and now is offered in a variety of expressions, including a very nice liqueur.

The best, for my palate, remains the basic 80-proof variety -- vaguely smoky, rich in vanilla and caramel notes, with a slight spice but a richer corn note that many of its competitors. Excellent as a sipping spirit, superb in a Manhattan.

Suggested retail price: $49 for the 750ml bottle.

 NEXT: Scotch, vodka and more to be published in the coming days.