Discovering Affordable Bourbon: Bartenders’ Top Picks
Finding a high-quality, affordable bourbon can be quite an adventure in the saturated Kentucky whiskey market. With so many options ranging from small batches to celebrity-backed brands, it can be tough to find your new favorite budget-friendly bourbon. Who better to consult than the experts behind the bar? Let’s uncover the best affordable bourbon picks according to bartenders.
Elijah Craig Small Batch: A Wallet-Friendly Delight
Elijah Craig Small Batch emerges as a stellar example of an affordable bourbon. This Kentucky whiskey promises smoothness from start to finish, with just the right balance of sweetness and spice. Many bartenders prefer it neat or with a few drops of water, making it a versatile choice for any bourbon enthusiast.
Exploring Unique Favorites Beyond the Usual Suspects
Bartenders often recommend branching out to discover lesser-known gems in the bourbon world. One standout is Woodinville Bourbon from Washington State. Crafted from locally sourced grains and aged in charred new American oak barrels, it offers a delightful blend of caramel, vanilla, oak, and a hint of spice. The unique climate of Washington State adds a distinctive touch, resulting in a bourbon that’s both complex and approachable.
Fort Hamilton Double Barrel: Brooklyn’s Finest
Fort Hamilton Double Barrel offers a well-balanced experience that’s easy on the wallet. Started by New York bartenders, this bourbon excels in cocktails like the Boulevardier or Whiskey Smash. Its smooth complexity makes it a favorite at The Bar Downstairs in NYC. Other noteworthy mentions include Great Jones Bourbon from Manhattan’s first whiskey distillery and Taconic Bourbon from the Hudson Valley.
The Incredible Value of Eagle Rare 10 Year
Eagle Rare 10 Year stands out for its superior quality and craftsmanship. This affordable bourbon is perfect for sipping neat or on the rocks and holds its own in cocktails. Despite the market’s crowded nature, Eagle Rare’s personality endures, making it a go-to option for bartenders and bourbon enthusiasts alike.
Russell’s Reserve 10 Year: A Step Above the Rest
Finding a high-quality, 10-year-old bourbon for under $50 is rare. Russell’s Reserve 10 Year delivers exceptional value, often available for around $30. It’s a bang-for-your-buck bourbon that many believe is unmatched in its price range.
Northern California’s Redwood Empire’s Pipe Dream
Distilled in Mendocino, Redwood Empire’s Pipe Dream is rich with a smooth finish, featuring notes of maple, pecan, and vanilla. It’s great for both sipping and mixing, making it a versatile addition to any bourbon collection.
The Small-Batch Excellence of Three Chord Bourbon
Three Chord Bourbon, a blend of spirits from Kentucky, Tennessee, and Indiana, offers a smooth and approachable profile. Perfect for sipping on the rocks or crafting incredible cocktails, it’s a top pick for those seeking an affordable bourbon.
Hidden Gem: Cyrus Noble
Cyrus Noble is a versatile, wallet-friendly bourbon that comes with a rich history dating back to the California Gold Rush. At 90 proof, it can stand toe-to-toe with pricier options and is enjoyable neat, over ice, or in a cocktail.
Bartenders’ Favorite Affordable Bourbon Picks
Here is a list of the best budget bourbons under $50, as recommended by bartenders:
- Elijah Craig Small Batch
- Woodinville Bourbon
- Fort Hamilton Double Barrel
- Great Jones Bourbon
- Taconic Bourbon
- Eagle Rare 10 Year
- Russell’s Reserve 10 Year
- Redwood Empire’s Pipe Dream
- Three Chord Bourbon
- Cyrus Noble
Using this list, you can navigate the bustling world of Kentucky whiskey and find a bourbon that suits your taste and budget. Whether you prefer your bourbon neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, there’s something here for everyone. Cheers to discovering your next favorite affordable bourbon!
