9 Whiskeys Not Worth Their Retail Price - BRT 253

[@StillLivinginthewoods]

I mainly live in the $40-$70 range myself. I know there are great tasting high end whiskies out there, but I also know that there are bad ones as well, and I don't personally enjoy gambling. In my price range, I can shrug it off on the rare occasion when I get a bottle that I don't like.

[@jacksonfl]

A $60 bottle gives about a dozen $5 pours. That is my limit. Realistically, my palette isn't refined enough to spend more. My guess is that this is true for most enthusiasts, even if they won't admit it…

[@thomasanderson2870]

Like my grandfather used to say: the difference between a $10 cigar and a $2 cigar is $8 🤔😉

[@travisrobeson306]

I love the list and honesty. It lets the newer buyer know that expensive, doesn't mean great whiskey! Cheers!

[@flyingjimbo258]

The latest price increase for MWND knocked it out of my budget for its value. Great seasonal pour, but no longer something I automatically buy. Glad I'm not alone

[@BentleyPascoe]

Kentucky Owl is one of the brands I've never understood on pricing. Hopefully some of the prices come down as there seems to be a fall off in the craze. Still very popular, but there's certainly a little shift happening.

[@geecee1990]

I Always love when you talk about sharing your bourbons with others. The ONLY reason I buy bourbon/whiskey is to share it!

[@llamabones]

EC18 is like Blanton's -- I keep hearing there are great barrels out there, I just never happen to get one.

[@MichaelSullivanCincinnatux]

Great list, great video! As for the Dickel 17-year, I don't begrudge any distillery that picks their top expression and slaps an ultra-premium price on it. Where Dickel wins is that they still put out their 15-year single barrel expression at an SRP of 60 bones and if you're lucky enough to find one of these as a store pick you can often get the actual age of the barrel, which is frequently higher than 15 years. I've gotten 17-year, 18-year, and 18.5-year Dickel at this pricepoint and I love the fruitcake & pipe tobacco profile that I get from pretty much any Dickel at 13+ years of age. I have mad respect for (and loyalty to) any distillery that sustains a high-value line like that for enthusiasts like me even though they know there is market appetite for that same liquid in an expensive bottle.

[@rossbishoff4486]

Thanks for the heads up on these high end bottles that might not carry their weight!!!

[@rickybarnes5361]

I visited High West Distillery in Utah, and it was my first time tasting MDWND. I think they were selling them at the distillery for 135.00. I liked it but even at that price was a hard decision.

[@ethanw5673]

GREAT VIDEO! I agree with every one of the bottles being too much MSRP except the Old Forester 1920. That price is right in line with other higher age statements from Old Forester / Brown Forman. I also think it is a delightful pour. Cheers!

[@heatherharrison264]

I have one of these in my collection - Old Forester 1924 - and I have tried Midwinter Night's Dram, Willett purple top, and at least a couple fancy versions of Angel's Envy. I like all of these, but I have to agree that the prices are high for what they offer, albeit by varying degrees. Old Forester 1924 isn't too far out of line, but for the 10-year age statement, it faces some stiff competition at lower prices. It also faces stiff competition from other Old Forester products. I like Midwinter Night's Dram, but there are better values in interesting styles of rye from other producers. Whenever I encounter an expensive rye, I consider how it compares to Sagamore, and they typically aren't doing anything significantly better or different, so I figure that it makes sense to buy something from Sagamore instead. As for bourbon, I find that the classic style products from legacy distilleries aren't different enough from each other to justify high prices when there are many excellent ones that won't break the bank. This puts many products out of consideration for me - Willett purple top, any number of high priced special editions, Van Winkle and other overhyped Buffalo Trace products. My hard limit for a high quality but conventional spirit is $200. To go over $200, I'm looking for something that stands out from the crowd stylistically, not just in quality, and classic Kentucky bourbon isn't likely to provide that. I have so far not spent more than $200 on a bourbon, but if I ever do, it will probably be for a high end bottle from Garrison Brothers or something else of a similar nature, or for an unusual finished bourbon. If I ever see the Garrison Brothers hazmat cowboy bourbon, I'll probably go for it, and I must admit that Barrell's high end bottles and Angel's Envy special editions are tempting. I have spent between $200 and $400 for brandy, tequila, and other types of whisky (especially single malt, but also rye and Irish). In these categories, that special mix of high quality and uniqueness can be found on occasion. In bourbon, I've been mostly sticking to high strength, single barrel store picks lately. Russell's Reserve, Four Roses, and Knob Creek store picks are well worth grabbing when they turn up, and they won't break the bank. I was even fortunate enough to stumble upon a Weller Full Proof store pick at a price that wasn't totally out of line, and it is as good as the others on this list. With this kind of competition, I have a hard time seeing how the $200+ special editions can be worth it unless they stray from the stylistic norm and do it exceptionally well.

[@joshcadieux7371]

I agree on most counts here. With maybe the exception of 1924 and the purple tops. But, only because supply is where its at right now. I look forward to a time when supply and demand return to a balance.

[@umami0247]

All of these are out of my price range and just something I’m not willing to pay for alcohol. In my state they are doing a spring lottery and I didn’t apply because of cost on these bottles which is msrp. They have a Last Drop bourbon that I’ve never heard of that’s 4000 for a bottle. It would have to come with several happy endings for that price and even then not something I’m going to buy. Most bottles are over the 180 range. Yes I’m sure they are good but just not what I’m willing to pay. Excellent video. Enjoy!!

[@jeffkastl1290]

What an expensive lineup today! I've had a couple of these. Not much seems to be worth the $200+ per bottle range anymore. Thankyou for your generosity and cheers BRT 🥃🥃

[@thomasgallagher1945]

Saw an Angels Envy Ice Cider Cask once near me for sale: $599 + tax. Needless to say, I've never tried it but the point is ---- if you think the retail MSRP is too high, you're REALLY gonna hate the secondary prices! Cheers!

[@JasonWatson-kt5sp]

Thanks for the knowledge and wisdom you share. It helps when trying to decide where to spend the bucks on a limited budget. Cheers!

[@travisryan6593]

I love watching these videos that give me a better understanding of things I shouldn't fight to buy over retail. Thank

[@lowlander1397]

Good info in this video especially for new whiskey drinkers. Agree with the Daniel Weller review. I got a bottle at retail, and while I enjoyed it, it is not worth the price. I share every bottle I buy, whether it's a Unicorn or daily sipper. Best part of whiskey is enjoying it with your favorite people.

[@mgrego2]

I’ve only had/seen three: EC18, KY Owl, MWND. On those, I agree.

[@Duckhunter5175]

Agree on Kentucky Owl, Midwinters, and Willet. I am still a buy and back it up for the AE

[@djmoobeat]

It will always be a never ending journey. I wish you could try more before you buy. Those higher priced bottles are too expensive for the stores to have a demo bottle. And most pubs/bars don’t carry that many higher priced bottles that aren’t from the buffalo trace distillery.

[@scottdeandrea6746]

Love this combination just could never afford to buy them

[@EZ-rs5zv]

Interestingly I agree with every single one of your pans - because I think really hard before spending more than $100 on a bottle.

[@JollyOldStNick1]

Price to value on a lot of these you are right on! A few of these I've had the chance to buy but keep hesitating because of feedback like this! Thanks for helping educate us all!

[@frankszudlo9757]

I agree with some. havent had many. Enjoy willet purple top but havent purchased a bottle. But disagree with Elijah Craig 18. its 149 in my state. But it hits my taste profile which i know is very different to each person

[@BourbonRealTalk]

I figured EC18 would be the one the most people disagreed with. We use it in a lot of blinds and it generally doesn't do well. It really comes down to how much your palate gravitates toward barrel char notes.

[@bigreb62]

Totally agree on price to value!

[@PatrickS0057]

I always enjoy the videos with you as a couple. Not bourbon, but I would add the Spot Irish Whiskey series to this list. Yellow Spot, Red Spot, Blue Spot... the prices don't align with the product and have been a pass for me over the past several years unfortunately.

[@BourbonRealTalk]

I have tried a few and they do seem to light to me for their price.

[@WTCrawford]

Great episode. Curious to hear your thoughts on J. Rieger. I recently purchased two bottles, 142 proof Private Stock and 100 proof Monogram. Both are amazing and top 5 in my favorites list, maybe even #1 and #2.

[@BourbonRealTalk]

I have tried j. rieger before, but I don't think they are distributed in my area, so I have not seen any of their LTOs.

[@FriarPop]

I agree with most those but MNWD, Willet purple;, AE and Oldforester are all def worth their prices and are highly sought after for a reason. Supply and demand.

[@BourbonRealTalk]

Depending on your whiskey budget I could see that.

[@davidsmith9347]

Only tried a couple of these so far but definitely agree with the opinion on the EC18 and KO

[@pikdiesel]

I don't own any of the bottles that were shown... Coincidence? Probably not!

[@keg9850]

I had a feeling, as soon as I saw the M W N D , that is was going to be picked first. I am still sitting on one I picked up about 2 years ago.

[@lfd_eng9219]

Thanks for what you do. Doubt I will ever own any of these...and probably not even taste many of them...unless you pick me!!! Stay real and continue to reach out to those in need! God bless!

[@SpenceHitt]

I feel like people spend money on nice bottles of bourbon as a personal luxury as opposed to buying a $750K sports car, but there’s also a limit to how much people will spend. I feel like everyone can agree that $500 for a bottle that’s 94 Proof and someone tells me “Yeah, I tried it. It’s “meh.” I’m not even looking for that thing!

[@TheStacman]

Probably will never buy these, but all are on bucket list to try!

[@mikefrattini1604]

There’s a couple that I don’t own but what I do have, I agree with your assessment. I did not like the Willet purple top and the Elijah Craig 18, expensive and low proof! Great review!

[@saul.m184]

Great video! I agree on the prices going way to high in quite of few bourbons. Keep up the great Job!

[@gregghon463]

Google did something right and popped up your video randomly...now im hooked on you guys 😂😂😂

[@BourbonRealTalk]

Welcome! Thanks for being here!

[@robertshay9235]

There are so many whiskeys out there that fall in the “it’s too expensive” category. I have bought a few $200 bottles and though they have been great, I don’t want to spend that much anymore. Cheers

[@frankrivera1666]

I haven’t had any of the ones you featured today, so I’m glad I watched this episode.

[@BourbonRealTalk]

Glad it was helpful!

[@tjacobs236]

Thanks for the opportunity to have a chance to taste these! Definitely would never be able to do it on my own

[@BourbonRealTalk]

Our pleasure!

[@a2e319]

I have given away thousands of dollars of bottles I didn't like, so I am significantly more careful of how I spend my money now!

[@byoregon1]

Happily I only have 2 of the ones on your table and you’re right that they’re overpriced. If you’re looking for a future discussion topic, you caught my attention with “old world finished”. I’ve never heard that term and would be interested in learning more.

[@tightcutz624]

Look forward to hopefully prices dropping . Always enjoy your duo.

[@MaggieMathias-Derr-yi3qj]

Overpriced or not… Holy cow what an amazing sample giveaway! You guys rock!

[@frankthetunaman1413]

I have personally set my limit at 80.00. After doing research I have found some very good bourbons and ryes. Doing my little bit to fight the overly inflated prices. Another great video guys, thanks

[@BourbonRealTalk]

Our pleasure!

[@PenguinInguinLodge]

EC 18 is actually one of my very favorite bourbons!

[@BourbonRealTalk]

I get some people love it. It just doesn't do well in blinds.

[@PenguinInguinLodge]

@@BourbonRealTalk its pricey as well. In Houston where I Ive never seen it on a store shelf so Ive had to order it. I did get a good deal for $149 for my last one. But its honestly one of my top 5 non-cask strength bourbons. In the end, its all about individual pallet!

[@Mike-xr9gd]

I think I might still buy a purple top at MSRP. Agree with all the others!

[@vincentguarino6281]

Great video-great sample pack as I have not tried many of those.

[@BourbonRealTalk]

Thank you!

[@ckent56]

Great episode, recently got to try WLW and it is fantastic.

[@BourbonRealTalk]

Thank you!

[@fireandfat]

Winning this giveaway is probably only way I could ever taste a Daniel Weller

[@adityasane]

Nice video! I would also add Michter's to the list. Everything from entry level to their ultra-rare 20-year are overpriced IMHO.

[@axegekko6477]

Actually no big surprises. Even tho purple tops are dumb purchases for prices I've seen, still want to try one 🤷. WT/Campari is starting to get into stupid territory too.

[@jamesberlin8217]

i am new to bourbon. my took on the bourbon trail. i am hooked. one question where is the point of dimensioning returns on how old you can age a bourbon and get anything more out of the barrel. i understand climate is also a factor.

[@BourbonRealTalk]

For bottle price for a large distiller with low production costs I say any bottle above $60 has a difficult battle being worth it when compared to its lower cost counter parts. For Non distiller producers who have higher production costs (if you into that sort of thing) I say $12 per year of age at cask strength. For aging in a KY environment I like whiskey aged 6-12 years. There are some exceptions bottles over 12, but more often than not I find they are too barrel char forward for my palate.

[@PenguinInguinLodge]

Kentucky Owl Confiscated seems full of tobacco notes to me. Its better if you dont fresh palate it, it tastes better if you have it as your 2nd or 3rd dram.

[@lrbtechie]

Very generous of you with this giveaway! I would love to try these, because I agree with you and will not be buying these bottles!

[@markdunn1931]

Thoughts on the 1924 neat, not as a mixer. I received this bottle on a trade at very good value. I haven't open it yet your opinion would be great. Cheers....

[@BourbonRealTalk]

It is a good pour. QPR the 1920 beats it based on flavor IMO.

[@eileengreen619]

Love these type of videos, it makes the FOMO easier since I could never afford any of these type of bottles 😩👍

[@BourbonRealTalk]

Glad it was helpful!

[@loganmott1817]

I agree with midwinter's but recently visited a tiny mom and pop shop honey hole of mine and they had act 11 for 91 a piece for that price I bought two because two for one price is worth it but one for one it can sit

[@BourbonRealTalk]

I would have bought them out at that price!

[@loganmott1817]

@@BourbonRealTalk I bought 2 of the three they had left one for my friend

[@MarkTraveler85697]

Randy, you are spot on, great to see your partner helping, great combo, as always appreciate your work. Always watching 👊🥃

[@bourbonbill]

Instead of midwinter’s get the sagamore port its way better higher aged higher proof and cheaper

[@Juannavarrolagos]

I got EC 18 for 150 at total wine and I wasted 150 on it. It sucks. All hype. I wish I could return it

[@lynnsparks6670]

Just found your channel. Thanks for the opportunity

[@BourbonRealTalk]

Welcome! Thanks for being here :)

[@clemonsjoey]

I agree, I wouldn’t pay retail for any of these either!

[@beneller7791]

Great video! I haven't bought any of these but great info. Need a wave from Wes or something!

[@stephanieknapp1217]

Thanks for the information. I was curious if the old forester 1924 was worth the price tag. I heard a lot about it

[@BourbonRealTalk]

1924 is the bottle on my list that almost made it onto the worth only retail episode. If it were a little higher proof I would be OK with the price.

[@Liz_DrB]

Yes. I will sign up for sample

[@bekkenslain]

Awesome videos. Love the attitude of this channel. Keep up the good work!

[@Dissingcringe232]

That sample pack sounds like a regular weekday night for me ha ha

[@applecrow8]

$12 per year! Even Randy isn't immune to inflation! But then when I started in this it was $10 a year and others said that was high. EDIT: ah you clarified cask strength!

[@Bearded_Bourbon]

Great video and great list. Thank you patrons!!!

[@brentworls8509]

Nice giveaway. Don't let anyone ever say you aren't generous with your whiskey and time.

[@0529mpb]

The only reason I got a 1924 is that Costco had a bunch at $90.

[@Matt_Bykowski]

Great video. I think the bourbon world is starting to jump the shark. We are to the point where everything is a special release at a premium price. While MSRP may stay the same, I think secondary will crash this fall. We'll also start seeing bottles linger around in stores and eventually be sold at a discount. I wish nothing but success to producers, but I don't like what I'm seeing in their financial future.

[@Matt_Bykowski]

And thank you for the giveaway. So much out there a many of us will never get to taste. Very cool you do some sharing. Thank you.

[@michaeltuthill6442]

I finally saw a 1924. It was at 200. I left it on the shelf.

[@NathanielEssex]

I'd love to try the Dickel 17

[@jacksontd7757]

Got an elijah Craig 18 last month for $160. Love that bottle lol

[@BourbonRealTalk]

It hits some people's palate just right, and that is OK.

[@bobunderbrink7961]

Thats a heck of sample pack! Thanks Yall!

[@mannyb2484]

Great share, thanks for the information like always!!

[@BourbonRealTalk]

Thanks for watching!

[@xjtwo]

Thanks for always dropping bourbon knowledge!

[@stickyfingahz425]

Greatly appreciate you and your channel hope you guys continue to provide great content and positive attitude for this wonderful community thank you guys.❤

[@ALaw-Fights4theusers]

Midwinters was on my list. Glad I didn’t buy, seems like most reviewers now are liking other things like Sag Port finish.

[@Dissingcringe232]

MWD was ok at 100 anything after that I’m out, it is 200 in so cal now😮

[@David13.1]

Thanks for your honest opinions.

[@deadeye204]

Great content! Glad the channel continues!

[@terrencemcdermott5840]

I can’t say I disagree with your list. Prices on these are pretty crazy. I will say I still find the EC for 150-170, but that’s still a lot for what it is. I have Kentucky Owl rye batch 2 & 3 and I love them. In today’s market they weren’t horrible. 2 was 199 and 3 was 179. Still high but they care very good. I haven’t grabbed the 1924 because of the price to proof ratio. Great video!

[@leerichardson397]

Always look forward to the new content

[@BourbonRealTalk]

Thank you for being here!

[@mr.richiej]

You two are so great together .Great episode and a sure enough epic give away ...thank you both.

[@ohernandez2236]

Thanks for the info

[@whiskyinsv]

nice episode but disagree on the EC18 not being worth it. Also the MSRP is 150 not 200!

[@BourbonRealTalk]

I just googled it and your are correct. I just paid $200 for my last two bottles. I think the whiskey is fine, but at 90 proof it doesn't have enough flavor for my palate at that price point. I know why some people love it, and that is OK.

[@whiskyinsv]

@@BourbonRealTalk of course, it’s alp subjective and ur view is actually probably more popular than mine. I was just stating my personal preference :) great content. Keep up the good work!

[@Dissingcringe232]

I love EC 18 but I’m a char hound

[@Dissingcringe232]

Although I’m out at the new price point, I was ok at 150

[@BourbonRealTalk]

Some people love it and I understand why

[@Dissingcringe232]

As I’ve stated before if they would do a 18 barrel proof, that would be a banger

[@WilliamT484]

Man that’s a wild line up

[@rodttu]

Kentucky owl has been a real hit or big miss for me.

[@dougsowell]

I got a MWND act 11 for $125 today. I got lucky.

[@BourbonRealTalk]

I am a buy at that price. Not because I wan't to drink it myself, but to share it.

[@user-hi1uv4zh2v]

Would love to try those!

[@0529mpb]

The sherry finished and the port finished Sagamore Spirit ryes are both better than HW MWND at half the price. I won't buy another HW MWND.

[@jtimmerman86]

Wow what a great sample pack

[@krischaney9034]

A shame what they did to Kentucky Owl after Dixon left.