The Best Affordable Bourbons to Savor: A Guide to Value and Flavor
Bourbon, the beloved American spirit, is a delicious and complex beverage. But with so many options on the market, it can be hard to know where to begin, especially if you're on a budget. Luckily, there are a number of fantastic bourbons available at affordable prices that don't compromise on quality or flavor.
Here are some of the best affordable bourbons to try:
Under $30
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Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond: A classic and widely available bourbon, Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond offers a smooth and balanced flavor profile with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. Its affordable price point makes it a great entry point for bourbon enthusiasts.
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Wild Turkey 101: Known for its high proof (101), Wild Turkey 101 delivers a bold and spicy experience with hints of brown sugar, cinnamon, and pepper. It's a fantastic choice for those who appreciate a stronger bourbon.
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Henry McKenna Single Barrel Bottled-in-Bond: This bourbon offers a complex and intriguing flavor profile, with notes of leather, tobacco, and spice. Its rich and full-bodied character makes it a great choice for sipping neat or on the rocks.
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Old Forester 100: Another high-proof option, Old Forester 100 is known for its balanced profile of spice, oak, and fruit. Its bold flavor and affordable price make it a popular choice among bourbon lovers.
$30-$50
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Four Roses Small Batch: This bourbon features a unique blend of different mash bills and yeasts, resulting in a complex and multifaceted flavor profile with notes of citrus, honey, and oak.
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Eagle Rare 10 Year: This limited-edition bourbon is aged for a decade, resulting in a rich and smooth flavor profile with notes of dried fruit, toffee, and leather. It's a great value for its age and quality.
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E.H. Taylor Jr. Small Batch: A higher-proof bourbon with a bold and spicy character, E.H. Taylor Jr. Small Batch offers a complex flavor profile with notes of caramel, oak, and spice. Its limited availability and high quality make it a coveted bottle.
Tips for Choosing Affordable Bourbons
- Look for Bottled-in-Bond: This designation ensures a higher quality bourbon with specific standards for aging and proof.
- Consider Proof: Higher-proof bourbons tend to have bolder flavors and can often be found at lower prices.
- Try Small Batch or Single Barrel: These bourbons often offer more complex and nuanced flavors than standard blends.
- Experiment with Different Brands: There are many excellent affordable bourbons out there, so don't be afraid to try something new.
Beyond the list:
Don't be afraid to explore beyond these suggestions. The world of affordable bourbon is vast and full of incredible options. Ask your local liquor store for recommendations or check out online reviews to discover hidden gems.
Enjoy your bourbon journey!
