September is National Bourbon Month (as if we need another excuse to drink bourbon). Bourbon was the first spirit that I really got into, but I quickly noticed that there was a large gap in pricing between rotgut and top shelf stuff.
I wanted to explore the bourbon options without shelling out too much while still finding quality stuff. Plus, I wanted a bottle I could not feel guilty about having more than one glass of in a night (because we all have those nights).
It was still a little daunting, but I was able to find a handful of bourbons that are quality and packed with flavor.
1. Larceny – $24.99
I was first introduced to Larceny while in college and it was suggested by the waitress as a good, “sippin’ whiskey,” for a great price. While it wasn’t necessarily sippin’ whiskey by my definition, it was a good bourbon at a great price.
It’s a traditional bourbon, and with one ice cube, it becomes something you can drink one or more of while watching a game at the end of the day.
Alternative: Basil Hayden’s Bourbon (now on sale for $39.99)
2. Four Roses Small Batch – $27.99
Four Roses was another bourbon that a bartender introduced me to in college when I wanted to drink better stuff for cheap prices because, you know, #college. Again, I was pleasantly surprised to find a great tasting bourbon for a small price.
This isn’t the first time I have been singing the praises of Four Roses; it has been a go-to for a while.
Alternative: Four Roses Single Barrel Bourbon – now on sale for $39.99
3. Knob Creek Rye Whiskey – $29.99
Knob Creek Bourbon is a go-to great cheap alternative, and the rye version is just as great. I know, it’s technically not 100% bourbon. Get over it and grab a bottle of this.
The rye imparts a unique spicy flavor that is balanced out with incredible smoothness. It finished smooth with undertones of vanilla, oak and cinnamon.
Alternative: Knob Creek Reserve Single Barrel – now on sale for $31.99
4. Maker’s Mark Bourbon – $27.99
I’m not breaking any new ground and this pick shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone who has even a little extra knowledge about bourbon. There is a reason that it has stood the test of time as a staple on most bar shelves and liquor cabinets.
Alternative: Maker’s Mark Cask Strength
5. Jefferson’s “Very Small Batch” Bourbon – $31.99
Yes, I know that I said I would keep these all under $30, but it was hard for me to eliminate my favorite reasonably priced bourbon. Jefferson’s is a whiskey that could qualify as top-shelf. It’s smooth with just that bit of a burn that I personally love while drinking a good bourbon. I like to know that I am drinking something that can put some hair on your chest.
Alternative: Jefferson’s Reserve
