There really is never a bad time for bourbon, but as the days grow shorter and the weather cools, we find the idea of kicking back with some bourbon in a cozy bar or near a warm fireplace as comforting as any pile of mac and cheese or chicken pot pie. Comfort can most certainly come in a glass, and in these top spots in Charm City, you’ll find plenty of choices to fill up.

Bar Liquorice: This brand new Locust Point joint from the owners of the uber popular Helen’s Garden (previously in Canton) and the favorite food truck Gypsy Queen, serves up a hearty selection of bourbon. Whether served neat, or in one of their many old fashioned or creative new cocktails, any bourbon drink is sure to be enjoyed in this cozy new spot. (801 E. Fort Ave.; 443-708-1675)

WC Harlan: Remington is drawing hipsters in left and right with some new spots, but WC Harlan has been a neighborhood go-to for a while now. This vintage-style bar attracts an eclectic crowd and serves up equally diverse drinks. Go for any variety of bourbon on its own, or sip on one in a mulled cider version to warm up some of Baltimore’s chilliest fall and winter nights. (400 W. 23rd St.; 301-848-2849)

Blue Pit BBQ and Whiskey: 43. That’s all you need to know. This Hampden/Woodberry dog-friendly cozy bar with a comfy outdoor space has 43 varieties of bourbon. They’ll mix them into cocktails, for sure, but with 43 types to choose from, we’ll take ‘em neat and try just a few… maybe. (1601 Union Ave; 443-948-5590)

RYE: These guys are called RYE and their mission is to revere the pre-prohibition Maryland favorite distilled spirit, so of course they have bourbon. Situated right in the heart of Fell’s Point, there’s no reason not to stop here. Enjoy your liquid warmth fireside, preferably. (807 S. Broadway; 443-438-3296)

Johnny’s: This Roland Park spot serves a wide variety of different types of food, and, equally as expansive, is their whiskey and bourbon selection. Every third Wednesday is whiskey night, so you can enjoy whiskey of whatever the theme may be, but sidle up to the bar anytime for bourbon, specifically, as well as cocktails made with the same spirit. (4800 Roland Ave.; 410-773-0777)

Bluegrass: A recent check in with Bluegrass revealed that they now offer over 50 bourbons and ryes, and they are pretty serious about their program too. There are some seasonal rotations and some ongoing additions or omissions based on customer love (or not). In addition, there’s a bourbon club. Yes, you heard right. Join the club and earn some points. The more bourbon you drink, the more points you earn and that, bourbon lovers, translates to free drinks. We’re pretty sure we can all agree that the only thing better than bourbon is free bourbon. Cheers! (1500 S. Hanover St; 410-244-5101)

Photo via Johnny's