Bartender's Choice: Affordable American Whiskeys Worth Trying

Bartender's Choice: Affordable American Whiskeys Worth Trying

Budget American whiskeys offer a diverse and accessible range for enthusiasts seeking exceptional quality without breaking the bank. The price range presents an array of options that showcase the rich traditions of American whiskey-making. Shop American Whiskeys.

BENDT No. 5 American Blended Whiskey

BENDT No. 5 American Blended Whiskey marks a groundbreaking achievement as the inaugural fusion of five unique small batch Texas whiskeys, each meticulously distilled, aged independently, and harmoniously blended under one roof in Lewisville, Texas. Noteworthy for being one of the few female distillery founders and whiskey blenders in the United States, Natasha DeHart, co-founder of BENDT Distilling Co., is redefining the landscape of blended whiskey, steering it away from neutral or flavored whiskey-based spirits. With an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 41.5%, BENDT No. 5 stands as a testament to innovation and craftsmanship within the American whiskey industry. Buy now for $29.99.

Bernheim Original Wheated American Whiskey

Born just outside Kippenheim, Germany, in 1848, Isaac Woolfe Bernheim arrived in the United States as a teenager with only $4. Originally planning to work in New York City, bankruptcy led him to become a traveling salesman on horseback, selling housewares in Pennsylvania. After his horse's demise, Isaac and his brother Bernard, a recent U.S. immigrant, moved to Kentucky, purchasing and renaming the Pleasure Ridge Park Distillery in 1896. During Prohibition, their distillery was one of the few permitted to operate for medicinal whiskey production. Bernheim Original Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey, a pioneering post-Prohibition spirit, features a unique mashbill predominantly composed of winter wheat, resulting in a soft, sweet flavor with intricate complexity. Distilled in Louisville, Kentucky, the mash, including corn and malted barley, matures for five years in Heaven Hill's Nelson County rickhouses. This exceptional whiskey has earned accolades such as the Pioneer Whiskey of the Year Award and a Double Gold Medal at the 2012 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, along with a "94 points" rating and "Exceptional" label from the Beverage Tasting Institute. Buy now for $37.99.

J. Rieger And Co. Kansas City American Whiskey Holiday Edition

Celebrate the holiday season with the 2023 Holiday Edition Kansas City Whiskey, a limited-time blend of straight bourbon, light corn whiskey, and straight rye whiskey aged for a minimum of four years. Enhanced with a touch of 15-year-old oloroso sherry from Spain, this well-balanced whiskey, bottled at 92 proof, boasts a smooth and slightly sweet character. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in classic cocktails like the Horsefeather, Manhattan, and Old Fashioned, this festive edition, featuring a unique label in collaboration with Charlie Hustle, encapsulates the joy of good music, great friends, and exceptional whiskey. Awarded Best in Category/Best American Whiskey and Double Platinum at the 2023 ASCOT Awards, along with Gold at the 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Buy it now for $39.95.

Devils River Barrel Strength American Whiskey

Exceptional whiskey begins with superior water, and our acclaimed Devils River Whiskeys exemplify this commitment by using the remarkably pure, fresh limestone-filtered water sourced from the Devils River region. Bottled at a robust 117-proof, our barrel-strength whiskey delivers the full force of our high-rye bourbon, showcasing its distinctive "bite." This daring expression offers a velvety taste enriched with notes of oak, honey, caramel, and spice. The final touch involves our exclusive chill filtration process, which eliminates impurities and refines the finish without compromising the whiskey's flavor. The outcome is a rich amber hue and an award-winning taste. Devils River Barrel Strength Whiskey has garnered 12 medals from esteemed competitions, including a Gold medal from the Asian International Beverage Competition and inclusion in The Best 50 in New York. Buy it now for $39.99.

Balcones Lineage American Single Malt

Lineage is meticulously crafted to harmonize the distinct methodologies of malted barley and maturation inherent in both the Scottish Single Malt Tradition and the innovative landscape of American Whisky. This unique spirit is distilled from a blend of Scottish Golden Promise and malted barley grown in Texas, subsequently undergoing aging in both new and virgin oak casks. In doing so, Lineage not only pays homage to traditional methods but also propels the category forward by embracing and celebrating American provenance. With an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 47.0%, Lineage stands as a testament to the fusion of time-honored practices and a forward-looking approach, creating a whiskey that bridges the gap between two rich traditions. Buy now for $44.71.

Journeyman Silver Cross American Whiskey

Originally bestowed as a golf medal during the early years of the British Open, the Silver Cross evolved into a symbol of friendship, tradition, camaraderie, and spirited competition. This whiskey pays homage to the roots and future of the great game, with one percent of proceeds dedicated to golf's improvement. Silver Cross, a 90-proof spirit, excels in cocktails and stands out on its own. Enhance its flavors with a drop or two of water. A blend of Rye, Wheat, Corn, and Barley in equal parts, aged in small casks, this whiskey offers a remarkable mouthfeel and body. With sweet caramel for bourbon enthusiasts, spicy rye, malty barley, and a smooth wheat finish, Silver Cross caters to whiskey lovers. Certified Organic, Gluten-Free, and Kosher, it boasts tasting notes of complexity, cola, cocoa, chocolate, spice, fruit, a long finish, hints of wood and smoke, and malty biscuits, all at 45.0% ABV. Buy it now for $45.99.

Canton Distillery Classic American Whiskey In A Football Decanter

Introducing our acclaimed premium blended whiskey, artfully presented in an exclusive hand-blown glass decanter. Each bottle is meticulously crafted in the distinctive shape of an official football, capturing every detail down to the laces and featuring a pigskin replica stopper. The decanter is elegantly displayed on a seamlessly molded raised pedestal base, mirroring the quintessential portrayal of an actual football field with yard lines and end zones. Beyond its unique design, this premium whiskey boasts an exceptionally smooth profile, making it a standout in both craftsmanship and flavor. Bottled at 90 proof and with an Alcohol By Volume (ABV) of 45.0%, this one-of-a-kind piece is available in 750 ml bottles, offering a blend of distinctiveness and premium quality for connoisseurs. Buy now for $45.99.

Springfield Distillery Classic American Whiskey In A Basketball Decanter

Presenting our acclaimed premium blended whiskey, showcased in a distinct hand-blown glass decanter. Crafted in the shape of an official basketball, each bottle comes complete with a pebbled-leather replica stopper and a base featuring a classic depiction of a basketball court. This premium whiskey is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness, making it not only a refined spirit but also a truly unique collector's item. Bottled at 80 proof, this one-of-a-kind piece is available in 750 ml bottles, offering enthusiasts a distinctive blend of craftsmanship and flavor in every pour. Buy now for $45.99.

Jack Daniels Bonded

Jack Daniel’s Bonded stands as a Bottled-in-Bond whiskey, adhering to stringent criteria: it must be distilled by a sole distiller in a single distillation season, aged for a minimum of four years in a government bonded warehouse, and bottled at 100 proof. The barrels are meticulously chosen for their distinctive qualities, showcasing deeper color, flavor, and aroma, resulting in a Tennessee Whiskey that boasts a darker, richer, and more oak-forward character. At 100 proof, this whiskey is bold and substantial, revealing layered notes of caramel, rich oak, and spice, culminating in a pleasantly lingering finish. Buy it now for $46.99.

Journeyman Buggy Whip Organic Wheat Whiskey

Affectionately dubbed "The Whip," our Buggy Whip Wheat Whiskey pays homage to the late 1800s when the historic Featherbone Factory produced items such as corsets and buggy whips, thanks to the innovative E.K. Warren. Recognizing Warren's legacy of hard work, ingenuity, and a daring spirit, we celebrate his adventurous ethos with our Buggy Whip Wheat. This single-grain whiskey is a testament to the exceptional quality and terroir of the organic Michigan wheat that defines its character. Comprising 100% wheat, the spirit imparts a gentle sweetness and smoothness, evoking the reminiscent qualities of an Irish whiskey on the palate. Distilled through a single process from organic Michigan wheat, each batch is meticulously blended to achieve a unique profile. Certified Organic, Gluten-Free, and Kosher, this light-bodied whiskey presents a summer-like, approachable nature with a well-balanced sweetness, complemented by woody nuances, subtle vanilla, orange, and caramel notes. Silky and easy-drinking, this exceptional whiskey boasts an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 45.0%. Buy now for $48.99.

291 Fresh Colorado Whiskey

Introducing 291 Fresh Colorado Whiskey Small Batch, an un-aged American white cocktailing spirit designed to be a versatile replacement for vodka, gin, and tequila in classic cocktails. Brimming with bright, sweet, and citrusy notes, it captures the freshness of Colorado snow. Notably, 291 Colorado Whiskey trademarked the WHISKARITA® in 2021—a white whiskey margarita featuring 291 Fresh Colorado Whiskey, Fresh Lime Juice, House Triple Sec, and Simple Syrup. Recognized as the Best American New Make and Young Spirit at the 2022 and 2021 World Whiskies Awards, this spirit embodies innovation and quality. Buy it now for $48.99.

Few American Whiskey

Capturing the essence of the Republic, FEW's American Whiskey harmoniously combines Bourbon, Rye, and malt whiskey infused with cherrywood smoke. The initial sip offers an approachable experience, with notes of graham cracker and honey at the forefront, complemented by a savory rye spice beneath. A delightful interlude of tart cherry emerges in the middle, while a subtle wisp of smoke contributes to the overall texture. The journey concludes with a nuanced finish featuring hints of white pepper and honey. This versatile whiskey is ideal for sipping neat, showcasing its intricate layers, or can be enjoyed in a refreshing American Whiskey Mule. Notably recognized, it was voted Best American Blended Whiskey at the 2020 World Whiskies Awards. Buy now for $49.99.

Woodford Reserve Wheat Whiskey

Woodford Reserve Wheat Whiskey is a premium American whiskey crafted by the renowned Woodford Reserve Distillery in Kentucky. Known for its commitment to exceptional craftsmanship and innovation, Woodford Reserve introduced this wheat whiskey to its portfolio, diverging from the traditional bourbon mash bill by incorporating a majority of winter wheat. This distinctive choice of grains imparts a softer, smoother character to the whiskey, highlighting notes of delicate sweetness, fruit, and subtle spice. Aged in new charred oak barrels, Woodford Reserve Wheat Whiskey showcases the brand's dedication to creating a well-balanced and refined spirit that captures the essence of Kentucky's rich whiskey heritage with a modern and sophisticated twist. Buy now for $52.99.

Heaven's Door Double Barrel Whiskey

Crafted in collaboration with the legendary Bob Dylan, Heaven’s Door whiskey is a unique expression featuring a label designed by Dylan himself, inspired by iron gates from his metalworking studio. This exceptional spirit is a blend of three distinct whiskeys, each aged separately and then further matured in new American oak barrels for an additional year before reaching a bottling strength of 100 proof. The deep aroma reveals rich notes of cherry and chocolate, while the palate is characterized by the distinct spiciness of rye. Heaven’s Door is a harmonious marriage of artistry and craftsmanship, delivering a sensory journey that reflects the iconic collaboration between Bob Dylan and fine whiskey production. Buy it now for $54.99.

Balcones Rumble

In 2012, Balcones received accolades including World Whiskey Distillery and US Craft Distillery of the Year. Balcones Rumble, an exclusively Texan spirit, is crafted from local ingredients like wildflower honey and mission figs. After fermentation and distillation, it matures in small oak barrels, resulting in a golden syrup color. The aroma reveals sweet vanilla, maple sap, brown sugar, and nutmeg. On the palate, enjoy notes of caramel, molasses, milk chocolate, and cinnamon, leading to a warm finish with hints of oak, fig, and earthy minerals. Award-winning and unique, Balcones Rumble offers flavors reminiscent of Scotch whisky, cognac, and rum. Buy it now for $57.00.

Balcones Brimstone

Experience the unparalleled with Brimstone, a truly distinctive whisky crafted through a confidential process of smoking with sun-baked Texas scrub oak. The outcome is a whisky characterized by vibrant, youthful corn and subtle fruit notes harmoniously blended with a pronounced smokiness. Whether you savor smoky whiskies or are drawn to bold, new flavors, Brimstone promises a memorable pour. Aromas of masa, Texas campfire, and powdered sugar intertwine with hints of stone fruit, peppery spice, and mint. Bold yet balanced, Brimstone stands as another original Texan creation from Balcones. Buy it now for $57.00.

Cooperstown Select American Blended Whiskey

This exceptionally distinctive American blended whiskey is crafted exclusively from locally sourced New York State grains, patiently maturing in meticulously chosen oak barrels. Comprising 100% American whiskey, it undergoes a subtle and expert blending process, resulting in a perfected expression. A finishing touch involves aging it with French Oak for up to a year, imparting a remarkably soft and graceful character to the whiskey. Whether savored neat or over ice, it promises a truly unique sipping experience. Noteworthy accolades include 91 Points, deemed "Liquid Gold" by Jim Murray's Whisky Bible in both 2020 and 2019. With an ABV of 45.0%, this whiskey stands as a testament to the artistry of American distillation. Buy now for $59.99.

Bull Run 14-Year American Whiskey Cabernet Finish

Introducing Bull Run 14 Year Old, a standout whiskey with a potent proof of 122.72, distilled in 2007 and sourced from IN (MGP). This exceptional spirit, finished in French Oak Dargaud-Jaegle, offers a sensory journey like no other. The nose reveals a symphony of buttery dessert, raspberry syrup, caramel popcorn, and vanilla. The palate follows suit with a dense and creamy experience, featuring indulgent notes of vanilla icing, maple, and molasses. The finish is a delightful dessert encore, evoking the flavors of Crème Brûlée with a dark fruit reduction. Surprisingly approachable as an easy sipper, even at 122+ proof, this dessert-inspired whiskey is a true delight with an ABV of 61.36%, encapsulating a rich and satisfying tasting experience in every sip. Buy it now for $66.99.

Few Single Malt

Crafted in the Evanston area of Chicago, Illinois, FEW Single Malt Whisky is a distinctive creation made from a blend of unsmoked and cherry-wood-smoked malted barley. This unique combination imparts nuanced notes of smoke and sweet spice to the whisky, creating a flavor profile that is both complex and enticing. FEW Single Malt Whisky captures the essence of its locale, offering a flavorful and characterful expression that reflects the artistry and innovation of the Evanston distillery. Buy it now for $68.99.

Balcones Texas Single Malt Whiskey

Situated in Waco, Texas, the Balcones Distillery, under the guidance of innovative distiller Chip Tate, is renowned for crafting premium, artisanal spirits that honor America's whiskey tradition. Their Balcones Texas Single Malt Whisky distinguishes itself through a unique maturation process. Distilled from malted barley like other single malts, the whisky undergoes aging in various barrels of distinct sizes and woods, culminating in a finish within large barrels crafted from diverse woods. This meticulous approach aims to enhance the natural flavors of the malted barley, preventing the wood extraction from overshadowing the spirit. By methodically rotating the whisky, nuanced characteristics emerge, influenced by the type and size of the barrels and the duration of maturation. The resulting spirit boasts a complex profile, featuring integrated notes of pralines, vanilla, brown sugar, and caramel that transform into ripe pear, citrus fruit, and raisin. The lingering finish is characterized by a delightful toasted malt essence, complemented by oak and spice. Notably, Balcones Distillery received several prestigious awards, including World Whiskey Distillery of the Year 2012, US Craft Distillery of the Year 2012, and the Icons of Whisky Award for Craft Whiskey Distillery of the Year 2012. Buy now for $69.99.

Courage & Conviction Signature Malt - American Single Malt Whisky

Our flagship American Single Malt whisky embodies the spirit of our founder's guiding principle: "have the courage of your convictions." A manifestation of our passion for Virginia and our vision to redefine American whisky, this 100% malted barley whisky is aged for a minimum of four years. Maturing in former Sherry, Bourbon, and Cuvée European red wine 'STR' casks, it marries the expressions into our flagship offering. Alternatively, savor the individual profiles in our Bourbon Cask, Sherry Cask, and Cuvée Cask offerings. With notes of caramel, butterscotch, and evolving palate hints of bright red fruit, raspberry, cocoa, barrel spice, and vanilla, our flagship American Single Malt finishes exceptionally smooth and creamy. Notably, it has received acclaim, including 96 Points from Wine Enthusiast (2021) and Gold awards from Ascot, John Barleycorn, and SIP Awards in 2021 and 2020. The ABV stands at 46.0%, rounding out a remarkable whisky experience. Buy it now for $74.99.

Black Butte Whiskey 5 Year

Distilled from Deschutes Brewery's Black Butte Porter wash, this American malt whiskey stands apart, aged for five years in new #4 American oak barrels. The result is a truly unique whiskey with a distinctive flavor profile. Each sip introduces notes of toffee and caramel, followed by a rich interplay of dark malt and decadent chocolate flavors in the middle palate. The finish is a delightful crescendo, featuring wonderful notes of tobacco, leather, and lingering oak. With an ABV of 47.0%, this whiskey offers a complex and satisfying tasting experience, showcasing the craftsmanship and innovation inherent in its production. Buy it now for $74.99.

Cooperstown Select Straight American Single Malt Whiskey

Crafted from 100% local New York malted barley, our single malt undergoes a meticulous aging process, maturing for a minimum of two years in new American oak barrels. To further enhance its complexity, it is finished in carefully chosen ex-sherry casks for an additional six months. The result is an exceptional single malt whisky boasting rich notes of praline, candied apple, and burnt almond on the finish. This expression stands as a worthy competitor to some of the finest Scotch whiskies, offering a distinctive and nuanced flavor profile. With an ABV of 51.5%, this single malt delivers a robust and flavorful experience for discerning enthusiasts. Buy it now for $78.99.

Westward American Single Malt Whiskey

Crafted in Portland, Oregon, exclusively from 100% malted barley, this whiskey stands as an exemplary representation of the American Single Malt style. The production process involves fermenting the barley with an ale yeast, followed by distillation in a double pot still. Subsequently, the whiskey undergoes maturation in new charred American oak barrels. The aromatic profile is dominated by malted nuts and honey, setting the stage for a palate rich with notes of cinnamon porridge and spices derived from the barrel aging process. The spirit strikes a harmonious balance between sweetness and well-spiced elements, akin to an oatmeal cookie, leading to a prolonged and satisfying finish where the distinctive ale yeast shines brightly amid a medley of flavors. Buy now for $79.00.

Barrell American Vatted Malt Whiskey

Introducing an innovative creation from Barrell, the American Vatted Malt stands as a unique blend of American Single Malts sourced from various distillers across the nation. Barrell carefully selected and blended these limited whiskies to achieve a harmonious balance of contrasting flavor profiles. The inaugural release of American Vatted Malt is the culmination of years of effort, featuring components from emerging distilleries that had not previously engaged in trading or selling bulk whiskey. The sourcing and blending process involved collaboration with a group of small, independent producers, with some contributors opting to remain anonymous. Among the core partners are Balcones Distillery in Waco, Texas, Hamilton Distillers Del Bac in Tucson, Arizona, MGP in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, Harvest Distillery in Valatie, New York, Santa Fe Distillery in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and Kings County Distillery in Brooklyn, New York. As a nascent category, American single malt producers showcase notable creativity, drawing inspiration from local environments and regional traditions to craft distinctive whiskeys. The technical challenge of uniting a diverse array of components, ranging from the tang of Southwestern mesquite smoke to the sweet creaminess of malted barley and the contrast of briny coastal peat with the warm vanilla character of toasted oak, underscores the complexity of this blend. The resulting American Vatted Malt offers a rich, multi-faceted experience, unveiling layers of flavor for the discerning drinker. Buy now for $79.99.