Bourbon is a beloved American spirit, known for its smooth and sweet taste. However, with the rise in popularity of bourbon, prices have also increased, making it difficult to find a quality bottle at an affordable price. But fear not, there are still plenty of budget-friendly bourbons that are worth trying. In this article, we’ll explore the top affordable bourbons that won’t break the bank.
Why Bourbon?
Before we dive into the list, let’s first understand what makes bourbon so special. Bourbon is a type of whiskey that is made primarily from corn and aged in charred oak barrels. It must also be made in the United States to be considered bourbon. This unique combination of ingredients and aging process gives bourbon its distinct flavor profile, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak.
The Rise in Popularity
In recent years, bourbon has seen a surge in popularity, with more and more people turning to this spirit as their drink of choice. This increase in demand has led to a rise in prices, making it difficult for bourbon lovers on a budget to find a quality bottle. However, there are still plenty of affordable options that offer great taste and value.
Top Affordable Bourbons
Here are our top picks for affordable bourbons that are worth trying:
Evan Williams Black Label
Evan Williams Black Label is a staple in the bourbon world and is often referred to as the “original bourbon.” This bourbon is aged for a minimum of four years and has a smooth and mellow taste with notes of caramel and oak. It’s also incredibly affordable, with a 750ml bottle typically costing around $15.
Old Forester 86 Proof
Old Forester 86 Proof is a classic bourbon that has been around since 1870. It’s made with a high percentage of corn and has a sweet and spicy flavor profile. This bourbon is also aged for a minimum of four years and has a price point of around $20 for a 750ml bottle.
Wild Turkey 101
Wild Turkey 101 is a higher proof bourbon, coming in at 101 proof, which means it has a higher alcohol content. This bourbon has a bold and spicy flavor with notes of caramel and vanilla. It’s also aged for a minimum of six years and has a price point of around $25 for a 750ml bottle.
Buffalo Trace
Buffalo Trace is a well-known and highly regarded bourbon brand. Their standard bourbon is aged for a minimum of eight years and has a smooth and sweet taste with notes of toffee and oak. It’s also incredibly affordable, with a 750ml bottle typically costing around $30.
Four Roses Yellow Label
Four Roses Yellow Label is a great option for those looking for a budget-friendly bourbon with a unique flavor profile. This bourbon is made with a blend of 10 different recipes, giving it a complex and well-balanced taste. It’s also aged for a minimum of six years and has a price point of around $20 for a 750ml bottle.
Jim Beam Bourbon
Jim Beam Black is a step up from their standard bourbon and offers a more refined and complex taste. It’s aged for a minimum of eight years and has a smooth and slightly sweet flavor with notes of vanilla and oak. This bourbon typically costs around $25 for a 750ml bottle.
Maker’s Mark
Maker’s Mark is a well-known and beloved bourbon brand, and their standard bourbon is a great option for those on a budget. It’s aged for a minimum of six years and has a smooth and sweet taste with notes of caramel and vanilla. A 750ml bottle typically costs around $30.
How to Choose the Best Bourbon for the Price
When looking for an affordable bourbon, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.
Look for Age Statements
One way to determine the quality of a bourbon is by looking at its age statement. The longer a bourbon is aged, the more complex and refined its taste will be. Look for bourbons that have been aged for a minimum of four years, as this is the standard for most bourbons.
Consider the Proof
The proof of a bourbon refers to its alcohol content. The higher the proof, the stronger the taste and the more alcohol it contains. Higher proof bourbons tend to be more expensive, so if you’re on a budget, look for bourbons with a lower proof, typically around 80-90 proof.
Read Reviews
Before purchasing a bourbon, it’s always a good idea to read reviews from other bourbon enthusiasts. This can give you an idea of the taste and quality of the bourbon and help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
Bourbon doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of affordable options that offer great taste and value. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon drinker or just starting to explore this spirit, these top affordable bourbons are definitely worth trying. So next time you’re looking for a budget-friendly bourbon, give one of these a try and see for yourself why they made our list. Cheers!
