Low-Cost Bourbons That Still Impress Experts

Low-Cost Bourbons That Still Impress Experts

Finding high-quality bourbon without breaking the bank can be tough, especially with some bottles being much more expensive on secondary markets. That's where Tasting Table can help. They have found the 25 best bourbons that are easily available year-round for under $100. You won't find any rare bottles or limited editions here, just great, easy-to-find bourbon. With many years of tasting experience, they have personally sampled most of these expressions. This guide will help you choose your next bottle, celebrating bourbons that perfectly balance quality and affordability.

Willett Pot Still Reserve Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Willett Pot Still Reserve continues the family legacy with its exceptional single-barrel Kentucky straight bourbon. Aged for eight to ten years, it received the Gold Medal for taste and the Double Gold Medal for design at the 2008 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. The distinctive bottle shape mirrors the traditional pot still used by the Willett Distilling Company for generations. Soft and refined on the nose, this bourbon offers delicate hints of vanilla, coconut, and cinnamon.

Evan Williams Single Barrel

Evan Williams Single Barrel has remained an underrated gem since its inception in 1983, offering a vintage-dated selection of the finest barrels from the warehouses. Master distillers Craig Beam and his late father, Parker, meticulously handpick these barrels until only the best remains. Despite being bottled at a lower proof, perhaps deterring some, its quality shines through, especially when enjoyed neat. With recent releases like the 2009 vintage, it's evident that Evan Williams Single Barrel continues to uphold its legacy, a testament to Parker's enduring pride.

1792 Full Proof

The name Full Proof comes from the fact that the proof (125) of the bottle remains the same as it was before it went into the barrel. This powerful expression may not appeal to beginners, as it is unapologetically strong with a prominent oak presence on the nose. Unique tasting notes include caramelized sugar and dark chocolate, complemented by a range of baking spices. This bourbon offers a full-bodied flavor that enthusiasts will appreciate. For those looking to elevate their bourbon game with a high-proof spirit, this provides a memorable tasting experience.

New Riff Single Barrel Bourbon

The releases from New Riff are uniquely tailored for different locations, predominantly available through select retailers. The whiskey within the bottle features New Riff's standard bourbon mash, consisting of 65% corn, 30% rye, and 5% malted barley. Aged for a minimum of four years, each bottle is individually filled without cutting or filtration, ensuring a distinctive and unaltered expression.

Michter's US*1 Kentucky Straight Bourbon

This Michter’s Bourbon is crafted from a meticulously chosen mashbill showcasing top-tier American corn, Michter's US1 Bourbon undergoes a maturation process that extends beyond eight years, reaching optimal perfection. This genuinely small-batch bourbon is meticulously curated, usually consisting of no more than two dozen barrels per batch, eliminating the possibility of blending imperfections and demanding excellence from each barrel. Embodying the essence of Kentucky's Bluegrass State, Michter's US1 Kentucky Straight Bourbon offers a nuanced, mellow, and earthy profile, capturing the true spirit of its origin.

Smoke Wagon Uncut Bourbon Whiskey

The Smoke Wagon team embraced a gratifying challenge, skillfully blending vintages of their high rye mash bill to achieve a distinctive flavor profile at an impressive 115-116 plus proof. This endeavor involved a delicate balance between creamy mouthfeel, tannins, and sugars, resulting in a magical end product. Older vintages contribute a creamy texture, caramel, and honey goodness due to higher concentrations of fats and sugars per ounce, along with added tannins from prolonged wood contact. The perception of alcohol burn is mitigated by the high concentration of lipid esters. The blend incorporates enough older bourbon for oak flavors and mouthfeel, while younger ones reduce tannins and introduce delicate fruit and caramel notes. This mastery earned Smoke Wagon Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2017, 2020, and 2021.

Penelope Bourbon Four Grain

Named after the founders' newborn daughter, Penelope Bourbon is an award-winning company dedicated to crafting a series of approachable four-grain expressions that cater to both bourbon connoisseurs and novices. This Four Grain Straight Bourbon Whiskey blends three bourbon mash bills sourced from MGP, incorporating corn, wheat, rye, and malt. Aged for 2-3 years and non-chill-filtered, the bourbon showcases a unique barrel char with #4 staves and #2 heads, boasting a proof of 80. Perfect for both new bourbon enthusiasts and seasoned whiskey lovers seeking their ideal "Sessions" of Bourbon, Penelope exemplifies a commitment to quality and palate satisfaction.

Basil Hayden 10 Year Old

The flagship bottle of Basil Hayden Kentucky Straight Bourbon is an excellent, affordable whiskey, but the 10-year expression is a step above. Smooth, elegant, and approachable, it stands out even after considering robust bourbons, making it an excellent choice for those new to whiskey. The palate offers a subtle rye warmth, with sweet notes of caramel and honey shining brightest, complemented by earthy flavors like toasted notes and light smoke for added complexity. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned connoisseur, this whiskey is sure to be loved by anyone.

Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Bourbon undergoes a unique maturation process, where the award-winning Distiller's Select Bourbon is matured a second time in deeply toasted, lightly charred bourbon barrels. This double-barreling technique extracts additional soft, sweet oak character, resulting in a rich and vibrant flavor profile distinct from other Kentucky whiskeys. Master Distiller Chris Morris emphasizes the significance of "double the maturation, double the wood exposure" in achieving the Double Oaked character. Aromas of dark fruit and marzipan lead to flavors of vanilla, dark caramel, and hazelnut, culminating in a long, creamy finish. Recognized for its exceptional quality, Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Bourbon was honored as a Double Gold Medal Winner at the 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

Still Austin Whiskey Co. Cask Strength

With 25% rye in the mash bill, this Texan whiskey packs a punch at a cask strength of 118 proof. It’s an excellent option for those who love fruitier bourbons, offering plenty of cherries and berries on the palate. The rye adds notes of nutmeg, pepper, and clove, with a touch of maple syrup, all combining with rich caramel for a highly satisfying pour. If you're looking to expand your portfolio beyond Kentucky, this Still Austin bourbon is a great choice.

Widow Jane 10 Year Old Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Widow Jane, a hyper-small-batch Brooklyn-based distillery, is dedicated to reviving the art of blending by marrying the finest and rarest bourbons from Kentucky, Tennessee, and Indiana in exclusive five-barrel batches. Utilizing non-chill filtered bourbons, they proof their spirits with mineral water from New York's legendary Rosendale Mines, the same place that inspired their name. The Widow Jane 10 Year Bourbon is an uncompromising and bold expression with deep cherry notes and a charred oak finish, embodying the distinctive New York style. Noteworthy accolades include being named World's Best Small Batch Bourbon at the 2022 World Whiskies Awards and receiving a Double Gold Medal at the 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

Knob Creek 12

Knob Creek, a standout within the Jim Beam Small Batch Collection, has garnered praise for its excellent nine-year-old bourbon. However, the limited-edition 12-year-old variant, introduced a few years ago, elevates the experience even further. Utilizing the same mashbill and maintaining a robust 100 proof, this expression boasts the familiar rich and complex flavor profile characterized by vanilla, caramel, and spicy notes. The additional three years of barrel aging contribute a heightened level of complexity, placing the 12-year-old Knob Creek in a coveted middle ground that distinguishes it as one of the finest bourbons available.

Garrison Brothers Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey

Garrison Brothers Distillery holds the distinction of being Texas' inaugural legal whiskey distillery. Their Small Batch Texas Straight Bourbon Whiskey, bottled at 94 proof, boasts a sumptuous blend of top-tier ingredients. Crafted from a sweet mash bill, this bourbon undergoes a heat-intensive maturation process under the blazing Texas sun, extracting maximum flavor from new American white oak barrels. The result is a bourbon with a deep, rich, and full-bodied character that sets it apart. Whether savored neat to appreciate its bold complexity or incorporated into a meticulously crafted cocktail, Garrison Brothers Small Batch stands as a testament to Texas whiskey craftsmanship.

Wild Turkey Rare Breed

Wild Turkey 101 is undeniably among the finest budget-friendly bourbons available. However, for those willing to invest a bit more, exploring Rare Breed, the exceptional cask-strength variant from this esteemed Kentucky distillery, is highly recommended. A masterful blend of six, eight, and 12-year-old bourbons, this offering stands out as one of the top choices under the $100 mark. Just under 113 proof, it boasts formidable strength without overpowering with alcohol, gradually unveiling a spectrum of intricate flavors layer by layer.

Larceny Small Batch Straight Bourbon Whiskey

The Larceny Kentucky Straight Bourbon, steeped in historical legacy, traces its roots back to John E. Fitzgerald, a post-Civil War distiller who founded a distillery along the Kentucky River. Fitzgerald's Old Fitzgerald Bourbon, renowned for its quality, eventually landed in the hands of Julian P. "Pappy" Van Winkle, sealing its fate as one of the world's most celebrated bourbons. Larceny pays homage to Fitzgerald's discerning taste and the Old Fitzgerald brand, incorporating a unique mash of corn, wheat, malted barley, and rye. Distilled in Kentucky limestone water and fermented with a proprietary yeast strain, Larceny honors tradition by choosing wheat as its secondary grain, creating a distinctive and flavorful bourbon.

Bulleit Barrel Strength Bourbon

From a wheated bourbon, we now explore one with a high rye mash bill, promising a heavy spiciness predominantly in the form of nutmeg. The sweetness, derived from toffee, mingles with toasted oak and maple, creating a beautifully deep bourbon. Bulleit Barrel Strength Bourbon can reach proofs as high as 125, offering plenty of warmth on the finish. Uncut and unfiltered, this expression is undeniably powerful, yet it remains smooth and easy to drink.

Noah's Mill Small Batch Bourbon

Noah's Mill, crafted by the Willet Distillery, stands as a remarkable Bourbon, a homage to Kentucky's post-Revolutionary War pioneers who distilled excess corn into precious spirits. This small-batch, rare gem marries different Bourbons, creating a harmonious blend with unmatched depth and complexity. Aged for two decades in solitude, it emerges bottled at 114 proof in limited batches, defying expectations with its smoothness and lack of afterbite. This exceptional spirit, boasting spicy flavors and sweet, creamy aromas, earned the Double Gold Medal at the 2012 San Francisco World Spirits Competition and a notable 93 points from Jim Murray. Truly, it's a testament to high-class sorcery.

Russell’s Reserve 10 Year Old

Handcrafted by Master Distiller Jimmy Russell and his son Eddie, this small batch bourbon captivates with a woody, piney aromatic surface layered over dry scents of grain and resin. Initial notes of corny sweetness give way to a subtle hint of butterscotch, culminating in a full-bodied, sweet, and clean flavor profile. Recognized with a Gold Medal at the 2007 San Francisco Spirits Competition, this bourbon exemplifies excellence and craftsmanship.

Four Roses Single Barrel

This Single Barrel from Four Roses presents a slightly proofed variation of their renowned OBSV recipe. The OBSV recipe is characterized by a delicate fruit yeast and a high-rye mash bill. Specifically chosen from the north side of Warehouse P—a cherished location for Four Roses' single barrel enthusiasts—this selection highlights the significant impact that barrel position and warehouse conditions can have on the whiskey's flavor profile.

Henry McKenna Bottled-in-Bond Single Barrel Bourbon

While some might argue that shining a light on this bottle contradicts our quest for hidden gems, McKenna has quietly remained under the radar for far too long. Offering a bottled-in-bond single barrel is commendable on its own, but Heaven Hill has gone above and beyond by maintaining a 10-year age statement at an incredibly affordable price point. Sharing the same mash bill as Elijah Craig and Evan Williams, McKenna boasts quality that surpasses its recognition. With its value and potential, it's only a matter of time before this hidden treasure gains the attention it deserves, so it's wise to stock up while you can.

Angel’s Envy

Angel’s Envy stands out as one of the most renowned and readily accessible cask-finished American whiskey brands. The primary offering involves a bourbon aged for four to six years, culminating in a finishing period of up to six months in ruby port wine barrels. This process imparts a rich hue and syrupy hints of candied fruit to the whiskey. While numerous cask-finished bourbon options abound, beginning with a brand that boasts over a decade of expertise is a solid choice for enthusiasts.

Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style Bourbon Whiskey

Old Forester holds a distinctive position as one of the select distilleries granted a special permit to continue production during Prohibition. In the 1920s, Owsley Brown I, then the company president, laid down a barrel sample that had been batched at the onset of this historical period. This expression is a tribute to that specific barrel sample, crafted to celebrate the uninterrupted legacy of whiskey distillation by the company. Bottled at a robust 115 proof, the whiskey reveals a nose characterized by potent notes of cherry jam and oak spice. The palate offers a delightful interplay of caramel, malty nutty flavors, and spices interwoven with cedar undertones. The finish is elegantly prolonged, leaving a lingering hint of campfire marshmallows—a testament to the enduring craftsmanship and heritage of Old Forester.

W.L. Weller Special Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Renowned for its exceptionally smooth taste, The Original Wheated Bourbon Whiskey substitutes wheat for rye grain, resulting in a distinctive flavor profile. Bottled at 90 proof, W.L. Weller Special Reserve boasts a striking burnt orange color and offers softer flavor notes, making it ideal for sipping or crafting cocktails. Recognized for its excellence, this special bourbon was awarded a Gold Medal at the 2019 San Francisco World Spirits Competition and a Silver Medal at the 2019 World Whiskies Awards.

Eagle Rare 10 Year Old

Eagle Rare 10 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey undergoes a minimum ten-year maturation in new, American oak casks, developing a golden honey hue and enticing aromas of gentle toast, fresh tobacco, and bananas. On the palate, flavors of chocolate, almonds, melons, raisins, and dried fruits are accented by subtle vanilla undertones. The finish is enduring and robust, with lingering hints of roasted nuts and corn.

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof

Barrel proof, though lacking a precise legal definition, typically signifies that the whiskey in the bottle hasn't been diluted before bottling, providing a near-authentic experience of drinking straight from the cask. Elijah Craig Barrel Proof, crafted at Kentucky's esteemed Heaven Hill distillery, stands out as one of the finest in this category. Released thrice annually, it consistently delivers excellence, with variations in both proof and age. Connoisseurs can explore the unique characteristics of different releases by sampling them side by side.