Dustin Gandoff
Bourbon on a Budget: The Best Bottles for Value
For many of us, whiskey is a way of life. But let’s face it, some bourbons can be pretty pricy. So, we’ve rounded up the best value bourbons that won’t hurt your wallet but are still great in quality and taste.
1. Evan Williams BiB
Coming in at under $20, Evan Williams Bottled-In-Bond is smooth, with a bit of a burn, and is a great value pour. It’s also a great value bourbon and it has a long-standing reputation as a go-to for budget-friendly bourbon fans and bartenders alike.
2. Rebel Yell Straight Bourbon 80 Proof
Rebel Yell is a smooth and easy-to-drink bourbon with caramel and vanilla notes. At around $20 a bottle, it’s perfect for those who want to sip on something with less burn, but still want a rich flavor. It’s also great for using in cocktails with more subtle flavors.
3. Old Forester 86 Proof
Old Forester 86 Proof is a classic that’ll make you forget you’re drinking a value bourbon. It has a striking flavor profile with hints of cinnamon, clove, and oak. It’s also great on its own, in a cocktail, or in any other whiskey-based cocktail you can dream up. Plus, at around $25 a bottle, it’s hard to beat the price.
4. Buffalo Trace
Buffalo Trace is one of the most recognized bourbon brands on the market, and for good reason. At around $30 a bottle, this bourbon is a fantastic value. It’s smooth, with sweet and spicy notes, with caramel and vanilla standing out the most on the palate. It’s perfect for sipping neat or on the rocks, or adding this to a Manhattan for an extra kick.
5. Jim Beam Black
Jim Beam Black is a step up from the classic Jim Beam and has a bit more complexity. It has a relatively low price tag of around $23, and it’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a great sipping bourbon that makes you want to come back for more. It has a deeper flavor profile with hints of oak, caramel, and vanilla that go perfectly with bitters in a classic Old Fashioned.
6. Four Roses Yellow Label
Four Roses Yellow Label is a classic bourbon that’s a great starting point for those new to drinking bourbon. At around $25 a bottle, it’s a fantastic value with a pleasing layer of vanilla and caramel. It’s great for those who want to enjoy a bourbon on the rocks or with a splash of soda water.
7. Wild Turkey 101
Wild Turkey 101 is a solid choice for those who want something with more of a kick. At around $25 a bottle, it’s a steal considering how complex and flavorful it is. It’s a great bourbon to drink with a splash of water or on rocks.
8. Old Grand-Dad Bonded
Old-Grand Dad is a classic bourbon that’s been around for generations and is still a great value at around $25 a bottle. It has a spicy and sugary flavor profile with hints of oak and vanilla. It’s perfect for sipping neat or on the rocks, or adding to a classic cocktail.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are plenty of high-quality bourbons on the market that won’t break the bank. We’ve rounded up some of the best, but there are plenty more out there just waiting to be discovered. The next time you’re in the spirits aisle, remember to keep these value bourbons in mind and you’re sure to have a great tasting experience.
