5 Budget-Friendly Bourbons You Should Try

5 Budget-Friendly Bourbons You Should Try

If you walk into your local liquor store and attempt to purchase three bottles of Blanton's or W.L. Weller Special Reserve, you might be met with laughter. These bourbons, once readily available and affordable, have become increasingly scarce and expensive over the past decade. However, they're not the only ones facing this trend. Navigating the bourbon landscape has indeed become more challenging. Nevertheless, excellent, affordable options still exist—you just need to know where to look. The following five bourbons showcase the variety and quality available for under $100, offering a glimpse into the diverse world of bourbon without breaking the bank.

A High-Rye Standard That Punches Well Above Its Weight: Old Grand-Dad

Old Grand-Dad Bottled-in-Bond bourbon stands out not only for its affordability, typically priced under $25, but also for its consistent and delightful flavor profile. With a mash bill featuring a higher rye content, it strikes a perfect balance between the natural sweetness of bourbon and a satisfying spice. This makes it an ideal choice for mixing classic cocktails like the Manhattan, where its robust flavors shine through without overpowering other ingredients. Whether enjoyed neat or in a cocktail, Old Grand-Dad Bottled-in-Bond offers a reliably delicious experience that won't break the bank. Buy it now!

A Classic Port-Finished Bourbon: Angel’s Envy

Angel’s Envy has played a pivotal role in popularizing Port-finished bourbons since its inception in 2011. This innovative approach sees the whiskey aged for three to six months in former Port barrels, imparting unique flavors of fruity sweetness, subtle hints of chocolate, and a rich depth that distinguishes it from traditional bourbons. This distinctive aging process results in a whiskey that exudes a sense of generosity, captivating the palates of enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. Buy it now!

A Barrel-Proof Standout: Wild Turkey Rare Breed

Crafted from a blend of six, eight, and twelve-year-old whiskeys, this bourbon boasts an impressive 116.8 proof. However, its strength belies its balanced and nuanced character, characterized by layers of flavor that unfold with each sip. Dominated by notes of cooked honey, grilled apricots, pralines, and warm caramel, with a subtle undertone of peppercorn spice, this bottle offers a rich and indulgent drinking experience. Whether enjoyed as the foundation for classic cocktails like an Old Fashioned or Sazerac, or savored neat over a large ice cube, it promises a memorable taste sensation. Buy it now!

A Bourbon That Tastes Like It Costs A Whole Lot More: Four Roses Small Batch

This budget-friendly bourbon is widely available, from neighborhood liquor stores to large retail chains, often priced under $40. What's particularly impressive is that it's crafted from whiskeys aged for six to seven years, offering remarkable value for its quality. Four Roses is renowned for its ten distinct recipes, utilizing two mash bills and five yeast strains. In the case of the Small Batch expression, a blend of four of these recipes yields a whiskey that balances fruity notes with nuanced hints of tobacco and leather, making it a standout choice. Buy it now for $39.99.

The Standard Among Wheated Bourbons: Maker’s Mark 

Recognizable by its iconic red wax seal, this bourbon holds the honor of being many people's introduction to quality bourbon and remains a steadfast favorite among enthusiasts. With its high-wheat mash bill, it delivers a smooth and sweet profile that appeals to a wide range of palates. Whether enjoyed neat, over ice, or as the base for classic cocktails like the Highball or Boulevardier, it consistently offers a delightful drinking experience. Buy it now!