Something different for this post. Instead of reviewing a whiskey, we thought we would share our best Bourbons that sell for under $40. For this list, we wanted a Bourbon that could be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a whiskey-forward cocktail like an Old Fashioned, Sazerac, or Manhattan. If you like to mix Bourbon with cola, a Lemon-lime soda, use it as a base for a punch, or anything super sugary, we recommend buying Bourbon even less than the ones we will list here. Probably Evan Williams 100 proof. We plan on doing some more of these types of posts in the future with ryes, other types of whiskeys, and different price points.
For the record, it was hard to narrow this list down to 5. We wanted to pick Bourbons that have a little bit of a distinction, something that sets them apart from others at this price point. To be clear, these are not our favorite Bourbons of all time, just ones we really like and are at a good price. This list, like other lists of this type, is completely opinionated. These are the ones we like; they may not be the ones you like. And we are sure we will get messages naming ones that were left off. But that is the fun of this post, and hey, it gets people talking. So, without further ado, here is our list, in no particular order, of our favorite Bourbons under $40.
1792. This is an easy drinker and a very balanced Bourbon. A super nose with a very good taste. Slightly on the sweet side but also has notes of bread, oak, leather, and rye. It also comes in a classy bottle.
WILD TURKEY 101. Another solid pick that won’t overwhelm you with complexity but is a nice drink. The rye comes through very nicely which makes for a good whiskey cocktail. Caramel is also high on the taste. It has a higher proof than others on this list, making it an even better buy.
WOODFORD RESERVE. This is one of our all-around favorites. Very smooth so can be drank neat or with ice but also makes a great Old Fashioned when you don’t want to use a rye. Vanille, toasted oak, and a nuttiness round out the flavors.
BUFFALO TRACE. Another perennial fav of ours with just an all-around goodness. Nice nose, nice taste with some grain, leather, butterscotch, and brown sugar. Leans a bit to the sweet side. This is also a good bottle to have around because a lot of people like it and might ask for it by name.
LARCENY. This one is a wheated Bourbon meaning it replaced rye with wheat for the second ingredient. As a result of that you get a very light, fruity, almost airy drink that is perfect for summer. Think of it as a patio Bourbon. The wheat brings more sweetness than traditional Bourbon including toffee and honey.
We mentioned it was hard getting to 5 Bourbons, so we do have a few honorable mentions: Elijah Craig. 4 Roses Single Barrel. Knob Creek. Bulleit. Maker’s Mark.
That ends our first list. Let us know if you have one that you think should be on it as well.