Over the past decade, bourbon—the national spirit of America—has experienced a stunning rise in prominence as both fans and non-aficionados search out the most excellent selections from American distilleries.
While many expensive, high-end bottles of bourbon are available, many can offer exceptional quality without breaking the budget.
The top ten inexpensive bourbons currently on liquor store shelves are examined here; each provides a distinctive flavour profile that surpasses expectations for the price.
1. Kentucky Straight Whiskey From Buffalo Trace
Buffalo Trace, a mainstay in every bourbon enthusiast’s cabinet, delivers a rich palette of flavours at an affordable price.
This bourbon, which contains notes of anise, toffee, and vanilla, is deep enough to please seasoned drinkers while remaining smooth enough for beginners. Usually priced between $25 to $30, it’s an excellent way to get started with bourbon.
2. The 101 Wild Turkeys
Wild Turkey 101, well-known for its high rye percentage, is very spicy. With flavours of butter, honey, and a hint of leather, this bourbon is not only tasty but also quite adaptable for mixing into drinks or sipping on its own.
At roughly $20 to $25, it’s one of the most affordable options for a spirit with 101 proof.
3. Black Label Evan Williams
Evan Williams Black Label is one of the world’s best-selling bourbons, renowned for its dependability and accessibility.
With caramel, oak, and vanilla flavours, this bourbon has a silky finish that belies its affordable $15 price. It’s an excellent option for regular drinking.
4. Vintage Grandfather Bonded Bourbon
This bottle is from the Bottled-in-Bond line, which ensures an ABV of precisely 50% and at least four years of age. Spice, citrus peel, and wood tastes abound in Old Grand-Dad Bonded.
It’s an excellent option for anyone who likes a bolder, more robust bourbon and costs about $25.
5. Bourbon From Bulleit
Due to its high rye component, Bulleit Bourbon has a distinct, peppery, and robust flavour with hints of maple and oak.
It’s strong enough for cocktails but smooth enough to drink independently. Bulleit, which costs about $30, is a fantastic mid-range product.
6. Four Roses Mini Batch
Four of Four Roses’ unique formulas are combined in this bourbon to create a flawlessly balanced spirit. Sipping Four Roses Small Batch is a lovely experience, with floral flavours complemented by honey, pear, and slight spice.
It offers a nuanced character usually associated with more costly bottles, all at around $30.
7. The Maker’s Signature
A traditional wheat bourbon, Maker’s Mark has notes of vanilla, almond, and fruit. It is also sweeter and gentler than its high-rye competitors. The unique container, sealed with wax, symbolizes excellence and heritage.
Costing approximately $25 to $30, this bourbon is excellent for both novices and connoisseurs.
8. Small Batch Larceny
Larceny is a superb wheated bourbon with a creamy, buttery flavour profile and hints of bread pudding, honey, and butterscotch. It is an excellent option for a softer, sweeter bourbon. Usually, the cost is under $25.
9. Nine-year-old Knob Creek Small Batch
Nine years is an extended age for bourbon, longer than many in this price range. Rich caramel and vanilla flavours characterize Knob Creek, which also has a warm, lingering finish.
A more expensive whiskey is often priced between $30 and $35. Given its age and calibre, this full-bodied bourbon represents excellent value.
10. Black Jim Beam Overly Aging
Jim Beam Black gives the traditional Jim Beam profile a more sophisticated twist. This “extra aged” Jim Beam whiskey has been aged longer than the regular version, giving it a more nuanced flavour profile with wood, caramel, and vanilla notes.
It’s an excellent option for people looking for depth without paying a hefty price, costing between $20 and $25.
There’s no need to spend a fortune to enjoy premium bourbon, regardless of your experience with this complex and varied spirit. The bourbons on the above list are affordable, with excellent complexity and rich flavours at a price that most people can afford. Try one of these ten finest value bourbons the next time you’re at your neighbourhood liquor store to see how satisfying a cheap bottle can be.
Thanks for reading.