Olivia Taylor
Introduction
Everyone appreciates a good bottle of bourbon, especially when it doesn’t dig a hole in the pocket. Despite bourbon being a distinctly American product, finding a good bottle without breaking the bank can feel like an elusive endeavor. Fortunately, there are some excellent, affordable bourbons out there waiting to be discovered. Here, we introduce you to four such bourbons, all under $100, that promise to deliver an exceptional tasting experience.
First Sight – Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage Bourbon
First up, a bourbon that even the most discerning aficionado would appreciate – the Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage Bourbon. A bottle costs less than $30, a real steal given its superior quality. Originating from Heaven Hill Distillery, this gem is aged for around 8-10 years, resulting in a nuanced and mature flavor profile.
Palate and Finish
Starts with a mellow, smooth, and slightly fruity sweetness. As it reaches the back of the mouth, there’s a subtle spice kick, complimenting the sweet vanilla and caramel undertones beautifully. It ends with a medium finish, leaving hints of oak, spice, and sweetness behind. This bourbon is super versatile; you can enjoy it straight, on the rocks, or as part of your favorite cocktail mix.
The Pleasant Surprise – Four Roses Small Batch Select
For the price of about $60, you get the fantastic Four Roses Small Batch Select. Made with a blend of 6 different Four Roses bourbon recipes, this non-chill filtered bourbon has a considerable depth of flavor that’s hard to match. It’s proofed at 52% ABV, which is higher than most bourbons at this price, allowing the robust and complex flavor profile to shine through.
Palate and Finish
You are hit with intense flavors of cherry, caramel, and cinnamon, rounded off with notes of vanilla and nutmeg. It has a long-lasting, warm, and soothing finish, with a slight hint of spearmint giving it an unexpected touch. This bourbon is perfect for sipping neat or with a splash of water.
A Hidden Gem – Buffalo Trace Bourbon
This bourbon may not be as well-known as some of the more “mainstream” brands, but it certainly doesn’t lack in quality. Coming in at around the $25 mark, Buffalo Trace Bourbon offers outstanding value for money.
Palate and Finish
This medium-bodied bourbon offers a balanced experience. It starts with flavors of dried fruit, honey, and vanilla. These essences dissolve into ripples of caramel and gentle spiciness, leading to a moderate finish that leaves an impression of toasted oak. Ideal for classic bourbon cocktails, this bottle deserves its rightful place in every home cocktail bar.
The Irresistible Enticement – Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon
Rounding up our list is the Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon, a delightful sipper priced around $30. It is known for consistency and balance, with a sweet and woodsy flavor profile attributed to its 12-year aging process.
Palate and Finish
This bourbon greets you with flavors of vanilla, caramel, and butterscotch with hints of orchard fruits. A background note of toasted wood and slight spice amplifies its complexity. The finish is smooth, warm, and just the right kind of long. It’s a bourbon that can stand alone or as part of an old-fashioned cocktail.
Conclusion
The whiskey scene can often seem dominated by exorbitantly priced bottles, but these bourbons prove that you don’t have to blow your budget to enjoy a high-quality drink. Each offers a unique, delightful palate and finish that merits savoring. Whether you’re new to bourbon or a seasoned enthusiast, these four delightful bottles under $100 surely deliver satisfaction in every sip.
