Best Low-Proof Bourbons For Beginners

Starting Out? These Are 12 Perfect Low-Proof Bourbons To Buy

In the world of bourbon, high-proof or cask-proof expressions often steal the spotlight, but this focus can lead to the unfortunate oversight of low-proof options. These bourbons, typically in the 80 to 89-proof range, offer a mellower experience that's perfect for those who appreciate subtlety and nuance or are new to whiskey and sensitive to the burning sensation of higher proofs. While they may lack the intense and bold qualities of their high-proof counterparts, low-proof bourbons provide a laid-back, approachable alternative that demonstrates the beauty of a less robust, yet still flavorful, spirit.

Old Grand Dad

Named as a tribute to Colonel R.B. Hayden's grandfather, Basil Hayden, Old Grand Dad stands out with its distinctive formulation featuring a higher rye content, resulting in a lighter and spicier flavor profile. Indulge in the robust and complex flavors of oak, pears, apricots, and dark caramel, best enjoyed neat or over ice for a truly satisfying experience. Buy it now for $19.99!

Old Fitzgerald Bourbon

Old Fitzgerald, produced by Heaven Hill Distillery, is a highly approachable 80-proof bourbon with a unique mash bill of 68% corn, 20% wheat, and 12% malted barley. This combination results in a smoother, lighter drinking experience compared to rye-heavy counterparts. Its dark, honey-like color hints at the warm, sweet aromas of caramel and honey with a touch of oak that greet you on the nose. The palate is celebrated for its smoothness and velvety mouthfeel, featuring flavors of caramel, toffee, and butterscotch with subtle spice. The clean finish makes Old Fitzgerald an ideal choice for bourbon newcomers and a versatile option for mixers or cocktails. Buy it now!

Four Roses Bourbon

Four Roses Bourbon, with its symphony of floral and fruity notes, emerges as an exemplary candidate for a sweeter highball. This bourbon stands out with its unique blend that is composed of 10 recipes, each contributing to its rich and mellow character. Sippers of Four Roses are greeted with a gracefully intertwined bouquet of ripe pear, crisp apple, and sweet honey. This intricate profile is the result of careful selection of grains and yeast, as well as meticulous aging that reflects the brand's commitment to quality and complexity. Buy it now!

Old Crow

Old Crow, produced by the Jim Beam Distillery, shares similarities with Old Grand-Dad, including being an 80-proof whiskey and using rye in its mash bill. Comprising 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% malted barley, it stands out as a budget-friendly option without compromising quality. Despite a decline in quality in the late 20th century, the current production under Jim Beam is still enjoyable. It offers tame aromas of citrus, corn, honey, and oak, while its straightforward flavor profile includes mild sweetness, vanilla, toffee, and oak. With a short and surprisingly spicy finish, Old Crow is a great value for those seeking a cheap yet pleasant bourbon. Buy it now!

Benchmark Small Batch Bourbon

Benchmark Small Batch Bourbon, proudly crafted in Kentucky, embodies the essence of quality bourbon. With an ABV of 45%, this small batch bourbon offers a rich and flavorful experience, showcasing the distinctive characteristics of the region. Buy it now for $18.99!

Jim Beam Bourbon Whiskey

Jim Beam, the world's leading bourbon, has a rich heritage dating back to 1795, remaining under the stewardship of a single family for seven generations. Our commitment to crafting bourbon our own way is evident in our meticulous aging process, which extends twice as long as mandated by law. Buy it now for $21.99!

Wild Turkey 81 Proof

American grains are carefully selected and blended before being combined with water that flows through a natural limestone shelf, imparting unique mineral qualities. This legendary blend is then aged in white oak barrels, each with a deep-layer char, contributing to its rich, pure, and full-bodied character. With prominent notes of vanilla and caramel sweetness, this whiskey delivers a truly exceptional drinking experience. Buy it now for $23.99!

Brother's Bond

Created by actors Ian Somerhalder and Paul Wesley of "The Vampire Diaries" fame, Brother's Bond is a noteworthy new entrant in the bourbon scene that stands out beyond its celebrity origins. This bourbon features a four-grain mash bill with 65% corn and 22% rye, complemented by wheat and barley in undisclosed proportions. The high wheat and rye content contribute to its unique taste profile. On the nose, you'll find familiar caramel, vanilla, and spice notes, leading to a complex flavor profile of toasted sugar, oak, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Despite being an 80-proof bourbon, Brother's Bond offers a depth of flavor often associated with higher-proof options. Although it is a bit pricier, its impressive taste and balance make it a worthy contender in the bourbon market. Buy it now!

Basil Hayden's Bourbon

The origins of Basil Hayden's Bourbon harken back to 1796, a time when Basil Hayden, a master distiller, crafted the recipe. Having been raised in Maryland, where he honed the art of whiskey-making with rye, Hayden's journey to Kentucky saw him adapting his skills to create a distinctive bourbon. Departing from the norm, Hayden incorporated a higher proportion of rye in his bourbon, originally derived from a corn base. The result was a uniquely smooth and mild bourbon that bore the unmistakable imprint of his craft. Buy it now!

Tincup Fourteener 14 Year Bourbon Whiskey

Exploring new additions to your Bourbon collection is a thrilling and delicious endeavor, and Tincup Fourteener 14 Year Bourbon Whiskey promises a delightful experience. Admired for its distinct flavor profile, this Bourbon stands out from the crowd, offering a true taste adventure for both connoisseurs and novices alike. Crafted with care by MGP Indiana in the United States and bottled at 42.0, this well-rounded spirit invites enthusiasts to savor its nuanced complexities. Beyond the ordinary, Tincup Fourteener 14 Year Bourbon Whiskey is an invitation to venture into new and exciting flavors, showcasing the diversity available in the world of spirits. Buy it now!

Evan Williams

This bourbon from Heaven Hill delivers a perfect balance of corn sweetness and oak depth, complemented by a subtle hint of mint that adds a refreshing touch without overwhelming the senses. Aged for extra years in the barrel, it boasts a smoother character that makes it ideal for savoring neat or over ice. Buy it now for $19.99!

Old Forester 86

This whiskey presents a sharp and sweet profile, accompanied by a robust floral character that intertwines with subtle hints of mint, rich tobacco leaf, and vanilla. Beneath this complexity, there's a touch of oak and pine, providing a solid foundation. On the palate, there are notes of oak, sweet corn, and rye grain, contributing to a spicy profile, while soft vanilla and light orange undertones add a delicate balance. Buy it now for $24.99!