LiquorHound's Top 10 Bourbons Under $30

Well it was a tough decision but here are my top 10 Bourbons under $30 as of 2015. The real issue I had was deciding to choose Elmer T. lee over Knob Creek. Knob Creek is very good and much more available, but I felt if you have the opportunity to buy Elmer T Lee, it should be on your radar. If you can’t find Elmer T. Lee, substitute Knob Creek and you won't be disappointed.
To see a great definition of "Bourbon" and the differences between "wheated" and "ryed" Bourbons (as well as a review of a 4-Grain Bourbon I vatted and barrel aged myself), go to this link: www.newcomerswh...
As of 4-03-2015, my current bottle count stands at 1,810 total bottles. I have 991 different ones in the bar & another 819 in back stock. I am a Certified Specialist of Spirits and have also been certified by the Tequila Regulatory Council (CRT). I've been actively collecting for the last two decades and what started as a small basic home bar has transformed (with the help and understanding of my wonderful wife) into what I think is a pretty nice collection. Thank you for watching and sharing in my passion.
Cheers!

[@nickysantoro314]

Sitting here in 2020 unable to find a single Elmer T Lee or Weller Antique or Weller 12. Miss being able to find great bourbon at fair prices.

[@luiswells5629]

My addition would be Old Grand-Dad 114. It is a delicious high rye mash bill. Great reviews, by the way! Thanks.

[@upStomp]

Eagle Rare did not lose its age statement, they just moved it to the back label. They did, however, lose the "Single Barrel" designation due to changes in Buffalo Trace's line process for the product. Great review otherwise. The sad thing is, most of these bourbons are over $30 in my neck of the woods nowadays.

[@mightguy123456]

No Wild Turkey? I may not be a professional, but WT is a very affordable and tasty bourbon to me.

[@grinchstones8525]

WT101 never gets the recognition it deserves, and honestly I have no problem with it. More for me lol.

[@jakebutler1095]

People sleep on it because of the name and since it is inexpensive it's not pretentious enough for some people to take seriously but it's my ordinary day whiskey that I know never will screw me the brand is always consistent but then again I'm no connoisseur I drink what tastes good I like trying new things out but I guess I don't have the palate to really taste every nuance in flavor I'm a drinker not sommelier lol

[@grinchstones8525]

Jake Butler Exactly. I might as well have it on tap at my house, everyone knows me for having it. I think with Matthew McConaughey campaigning for them the word is getting out. Love that slogan "It'll find you"

[@LiquorHound]

WT101 has always been a solid value Bourbon and would most likely make my list now. At the time, I felt these were better overall Bourbons for $30 and under. That said, times change and unfortunately many of those shown have exceeded that price or dropped in quality. Cheers!

[@jclar7210]

Absolutely one of my favorite bourbons for the price, also the Russell line bourbons.

[@IstealXmas]

Best bourbon reviewer I've seen to date. Gets right to the point.

[@FawleyJude]

I agree. A lot of the other review videos I've seen are taken up with a lot of joking and banter between the reviewers, makes you want to grab them and say, "Just get on with it!" This guy gets down to business and covers a lot more ground.

[@regul8or71]

Yep. I’ve become a big fan of LiquorHound, partly for this reason.

[@orestegallo]

Really enjoyed both Evan Williams Single Barrels I've had.

[@chickenmanfan4977]

Really enjoyed this video. I've watched a few of your bourbon vids already. About to turn 41 and a buddy of mine is starting to get me into bourbons. Enjoyed my first with Town Branch. Just got a bottle of Knob Creek now to try. Looking forward to trying many more. Thanks!

[@wilsonbelle6600]

That liquor shelf is epic.

[@andymeresse6930]

Thanks for the water tip on the 1792. I was about to swear it off. Just had it neat tonight, and it truly is a whole new experience!

[@TheOneGlassMan]

Great video, thanks. The new eagle rare label still makes reference to the 10-year maturation in the back of the bottle.

[@alfu2169]

That evan Williams single barrel is a sleeper

[@amaroudis]

Many of these are not under $30. I grabbed an ETL today in central KY for $39.99 before tax. Seems to me Buffalo Trace and/or Liquor Barn are raising prices on "allocated" bourbons. Everything has gone up since the fall/winter. Pappy Van Winkle 20 year went from $129 to $164. Rockhill farms, Stagg jr, Weller 12 also have seen price increases. The good thing about ETL was that it was a great bourbon for the money. But if they start increasing the price on it, then I won't be a buyer past $40. But I am sure they will still sell out in no time.

[@LiquorHound]

amaroudis I fell your pain! The recent release of Elmer T Lee around here arrived this past week and was now $34.99. I guess to stay under $30, buy Knob Creek instead. Cheers!

[@amaroudis]

***** agreed. Just really annoys me that we are seeing bigger price increases than many other parts of the nation when I am 15-20 minutes from Buffalo Trace distillery. But, the stores have no problem selling all their stock even at the increased prices.

[@JeremyDore]

amaroudis Eventually they'll all go back to drinking vodka and gin and we will be swimming in wonderful whiskeys since everyone has increased production. :)

[@amaroudis]

Jeremy Dore Lets hope so!!! I am thinking the trend will switch to rum next :)

[@renocool1558]

Elmer T is hard to find, I'd gladly pay $50. Never see it in stores

[@JeremyDore]

Evan William's SB does fluctuate a bit, but not as much as Eagle Rare. It literally goes from awesome to OMFG what did they put in this bottle... at times.

[@jpsinger16]

+Jeremy Dore I got one of those OMFG bottles a few years ago - a 1.75 ml bottle no less. Awful stuff.

[@thewhiskeyrickhouse6000]

I understand how hard it is to narrow the field, we are currently filming a March Madness style bracket blind tasting on 16 whiskies. The series should be out soon, I was surprised in a blind taste what label I liked over what I thought my favorite was.

[@johnpeterson5484]

Nice video, earned my subscription easily. Now a days the Weller antique, Weller 12 and Elmer T Lee are very hard to find around me. I have managed to find a Elmer and an antique but the 12 year still eludes me. The hunt will go on. Cheers!

[@MrGrxxx123]

1792 is good stuff!

[@gypsietrukr]

Thank you for the information on Elmer t Lee availability in DFW

[@gregmartin1757]

Really wish these were all still under$30.00 this is obviously a older video. Several of these are now double that or more if your lucky enough to find em at all in my area atleast.

[@jeffmills822]

such a great video. ....things sure have changed.. i did find 6 bottles of the Elijah Craig 12 year red yesterday here in Cambodia...it was like finding gold. the evan williams single barrel and eagle rare are available but the prices are crazy... 2020...june 26...

[@lionslight3763]

Actually I've never had a lick of Bourbon in my 41 years but I am curious, thus bringing me here to educate myself with your fantastic knowledge. I was very impressed with your breakdown and will start off with Four Roses to break me in. You also seemed to perk up a bit you came around to it because "Your Always So Good".. LOL Also, I admire the collection of Spirits you have in the background. Keep you posted....

[@LiquorHound]

+Lion's Light - Thanks and I'm glad I could help. Cheers!

[@justinwalsh5496]

Love your reviews, love your collection and passion you have! I've learned a lot over the past couple years from your different YT vids! That said (and I realize this is outdated) - the only bottles that aren't allocated around me are ER and EW SiB, and BT (though this one is getting there...). Do you have an updated list of 'available' top 10's? Just curious to see what it would be a few years later. Cheers!

[@LiquorHound]

I'm going to work on a new list fairly soon. Thank you for watching, and cheers!

[@stephenmahlstedt8533]

Great video! I still consider myself new to tasting, as I continue to struggle to identify scents or flavors aside from the most obvious ones. I'm curious, when you say "red fruits", what type of fruits are you referring to? Red apples, red berries, cherries? I like to taste along with your videos, to see if I can help train my brain a little bit to try to pull out some of these myself, although I do understand it's all very subjective. Keep up the great work!

[@LiquorHound]

Stephen Mahlstedt - When I say "red fruits" I'm usually tasting a combination of cherries, raspberries and strawberries. If I sense apples, I try to denote them separately and narrow it down to golden, red or green (sweet and/or sour). Thanks for watching and keep up the training! Cheers!

[@ALE2163233]

I just picked up Larceny. My first ever wheated bourbon!

[@darnellwright2068]

Larceny is a good bottle, But Elijah Craig was a bit strong for my liking but what ever you do do not get Colville Bourbon it's gross high proof taste like oily alcohol

[@aaronneff2488]

Correction, Eagle rare still has an age statement. Its on the back of the bottle on the top of the label. BT did take away ER's single barrel status because it was taking too long to clean the bottling line.

[@timmsass]

Couldn't agree more with (most of) the review, and appreciate the nosing. Most people really overlook that aspect, well done. We diverge, however, on the Larceny. The nose is non-offensive, but the taste is slightly bitter (prunish) and the finish falls off the table almost immediately. Sub either Russell's Reserve or WT 101, and we're in lockstep. I'm somewhat in the bag for Evan, but I get the differing barrel to barrel offerings. Thanks again. This is good stuff, and some great notes on good bargains out there.

[@Majoofi]

I've had the exact same experience with the Evan Williams

[@badseed2050]

I am a single malt Scotch man mostly, However I would like to try a few bourbons, but the issue I have is most seem to be rye based. Now I am not really a fan of rye - go figure being a Canadian and all. Can you recommend some bourbon that might appeal to a scotch lover, that doesn't have a taste for rye. The only one I know that doesn't have rye is Makers Mark and Makers 46 - what do you think of these? Love your videos - fantastic education. Keep em coming. Also Happy St Paddy's Day - I got me a Redbreast to try for today. Cheers and Thank you.

[@LiquorHound]

+Badseed - Hmm, well other nice wheaters (if you can find them) are Weller 12 & 107 Antique, but I'm not sure either of those will "blow you away" if you're into really complex Single Malts. You'd probably need to try a William Larue Weller or Pappy 15, 20 or 23 to get the full impact of what great wheaters can be. But if you want to stay away from secondary prices (where a couple of those will reach into the thousands), other really nice bourbons to try (even though they're ryed bourbon mashbills) are Smooth Ambler "Cask Strengths" or Blanton's. BTW, what a coincidence, I was celebrating with some Redbreast as well today. ;-) kzbin.info/www/bejne/e3KliHlpjLF3ack Cheers!

[@BJJandBS]

Im a single malt guy as well and the bourbons I always enjoy a dram of most are Michters American Whisky (my fave) and Makers Mark.

[@scottlink5058]

Thoroughly enjoyed this video, thanks for doing it! Well done! One question though, you described the wheaters as being "doughy". How would you define that term? Thanks! And keep em coming...

[@LiquorHound]

Scott Link - Great question. When I say "doughy", think fresh made dough that's rising or maybe the center of an under-baked loaf of bread. Cheers!

[@gregoryschadewald5815]

***** Doughy tastes from yeasts that work with fermentation of wheat maybe? I don't digest wheat yeasts well which I used make wheat or barley malted beer at home for past 20 years. Other yeasts for barley okay with me though. Each his own...

[@JLinn2385]

Excellent input. Thank you for taking the time to put this together.

[@kanesmith4961]

Just a small correction, Eagle Rare still has the 10 year age statement, but it has been moved to the back label (which is kinda ominous). But it did lose the "single barrel" designation due to a bottling line change. Great selection by the way, atm I am enjoying a Weller 12 and Elmer T. Lee side by side, both of which I'd bought last year before the prices went insane.

[@jackwood8307]

Thank you for very thoughtful instructive reviews! They are very helpful, CHEERS!

[@chigbungus5257]

As a newcomer to the bourbon scene, what is the most drinkable bourbon of these 10 reviewed?

[@LiquorHound]

+Isaiah Bergemann - It really depends on personal palate and preference, but the the Four Roses Small Batch may be the simplest and easiest of the bunch. Some Eagle Rare bottles can also be similar. Cheers!

[@everydayexpats]

+Isaiah Bergemann I am a bourbon newbie myself, and for my palate, I found the wheated bourbons (e.g. the last 3) to be the easiest. The rye bourbons have a spicy, or peppery component that can feel a bit harsh on the untrained palate. I went to the Kentucky Bourbon Festival last year, and was able to sample different styles of bourbon (all in this video's price range or lower; nothing high-end), and Larceny was the most enjoyable one for me. While LiquorHound never mentioned caramel in his description of Larceny's flavor profile, I, in fact, found it in abundance. As they say, your mileage may vary.

[@DeDona1]

Jim Beam even though he doesn't mention it. Either the straight whiskey Bourbon or the black extra aged

[@curetiamhices289]

How did I get this 9 year old video recommended. It’s currently July 2024. Interesting to see some of these bourbons that are now so hard to find and increased greatly in price.

[@ikiruyamamoto1050]

It's funny how things change in 4 1/2 years. IF you could even find the Wellers and Lee, the Wellers are going for as much as 10 times $30. So this list needs a lot of updating.

[@LiquorHound]

True and I did shoot a updated video a few months back. Enjoy and cheers! kzbin.info/www/bejne/bpq3f56Jprdmg8U

[@edwardking1192]

Really enjoy the videos. Thanks. Live in the UK so not always easy to get stuff, but managing to build up a nice collection of Bourbon. Your recommendations have been helping.

[@LiquorHound]

Edward King - Glad to have you on board Edward King! Good luck and cheers!

[@Ed-lz4jv]

1792 my favorite so far, i just got a bottle of Elijah Craig..but NOT the 12yr which i wanted...is it any good?

[@brandonwallick3686]

You have an amazing palate. Thank you for sharing. Your shelves and bar would look beautiful in a dark wood.

[@LiquorHound]

Thank you Brandon, and I agree that beautiful dark wood shelving would look great. Are you offering to install them!?! ;-D JK, cheers!

[@davidbarss7267]

Curious how you think of these other competitors to that price range. Bulleit, Henry McKenna Single Barrel 10yr, Old Grand Dad 114, Kentucky Vintage, Bowman Brothers, Ezra Brooks Single Barrel, Johnny Drum Private Stock and Old Bardstown Estate Bottled? Thanks and enjoyed your video.

[@tompeebles6273]

what bourbons have you had that have the highest viscosity?

[@bbostic_5]

Pretty wild to watch this in 2021. How quickly things have changed.

[@bwinters48]

Great vid! is there a way you could do your top 10 tequilas for under $30??

[@damiankenner9370]

Yup

[@cosmiccharlie8294]

Much better off collecting spirits than wine. I recently got some 2010 Evans Williams Vintage that was pleasing.

[@AB-kf8ry]

The Elijah Craig 12 is now a collector's item

[@stephenjohn6850]

Awesome collection! How long can I keep my open Bourbons before they start oxidizing and losing flavor? Thanks

[@LiquorHound]

+Tequila Steve - Thank you! Typically if you open a bottle, you should try and finish it within 6 months to a year, but there's a lot of variables in that equation. For example, not all bottles worsen with oxidation. I have a 30 year old Armagnac that was spicy and sharp when first opened, but after a year of oxidizing, it has relaxed and tastes much better. In general though, there are some step you can take to help maintain open bottles properly. First, keep them out of direct sunlight and in a cool location. Next, keep an eye on their corks conditions and replace if they become loose or brittle. Lastly, either constantly move the spirit into smaller and smaller vessels as you drink it (to minimize oxidation by keeping the oxygen trapped in the bottle to a minimum), or use a heavy inert gas (like argon) when resealing after every pour. I use an argon tank setup myself since I have many open bottles. Now for smaller collections/home bars, I'd recommend using the smaller bottle trick that I mentioned above, or using a wine preserver (like "Private Preserve") to help protect the opened bottles. You can buy them from Amazon for about $10 and they say you can get 120 uses out of one. They recommend a 1 sec. spray followed by 3-4 small bursts, but when I was using them I sprayed them heavy (2 seconds long and 3-4 short bursts), so I only got 70-80 good seals per can. The key to using gas is that you do not disturb/move the bottle once it's gassed (which will disrupt the gas layer). Here's an old video of mine where I talked about oxidation and the spray (starts at the 4:22 mark): kzbin.info/www/bejne/jIi8inqJadyGqrM . To see the larger argon tank that I use, here's a video that shows my setup (starts at the 10:18 mark): kzbin.info/www/bejne/rHjMlGCVmK5ofK8 . Cheers!

[@stephenjohn6850]

Thanks for the detailed response, I appreciate you taking the time. Just ordered the Argon you recommended. Look forward to your next video.

[@toughnut31]

@@LiquorHound Can't Nitrogen be used instead of Argon?

[@samby5]

Thank you for this an all your great and informative videos. You have been a valuable resource in my whiskey journey. Keep up the good work.

[@clearasvodka]

Evan Williams 1783 is as good as anything under the $30 price point. Though it lacks an age statement - at least it drinks like an 8 year old bourbon. The older bottles say 10 year bourbon on them. I used to get is for under $20. It's still under $30 today. The only two bourbons you can get today for under $30 in this video now is Larceny and Buffalo Trace.

[@alexcampbell8432]

Could you make more under $30 reviews for other types of spirits please, that would be awesome.

[@anthonypapa9407]

Of all of those which 2 would you purchase? and can you recommend a single barrel?

[@Robhalifax]

I can only afford the cheaper Bourbons here in the U.K. and the Elijah Craig is head and shoulders above the rest. Tastes like a more expensivre Bourbon.

[@bobcloughjr]

Have you had the Eagle Rare yet?

[@bryanscruggs7566]

Fantastic review! I've been casually tasting whiskies for the past couple of years but for the past month I've been into it every day. I've tried a few of these. My two cents would be definitely add Russell's Reserve 10 Year, soooo good. Rye spice, light butterscotch, with heavy oak aftertaste. Third day on this bourbon and I'm half way down. 1792 Small Batch was my previous and it was also delicious, finished it in less than a week. Maker's 46 is also delicious IMO. Hirsch is the next on my list to try for the under $30 category. I'm especially interesting in this video cause I am trying to find as many small batches for under $35 as I can find. What are your thoughts on Woodford, Knob Creek, and Jefferson's? Since you didn't add them. Surprised to see Evan William's, I will now try since you seem like a pretty knowledgeable guy. Once my tax returns come in I'm going to hopefully start reviews. One of my ideas was exactly this. A list of top 10 bourbons under $35. Even this video is very old, I'd appreciate a reply. I love your channel! I'm very picky about who I trust.

[@LiquorHound]

Thank you. That all sounds good, and I wish you luck. As for the three bourbons you mentioned, I'd easily take Knob Creek over Woodford or Jefferson's. Cheers!

[@bryanscruggs7566]

Hey thanks for the reply! I've had a good bit of bourbons since this post. I had Jefferson's and I absolutely HATED it. Definitely not a $30 bourbon. Larceny and Evan Williams are the only ones on this list I haven't had yet, except Elmer T. Lee, which incredibly overpriced these days.

[@FMichael1970]

Been a 'scotch snob' for quite some time (the Jack Daniels, Maker's Mark, Bulleit Bourbon & Rye, Jim Beam never impressed me), but the Evan Williams 2006 Single Barrel Costco Edition for $20 is really enjoyable - so much that I picked up the Evan Williams 2005 Single Barrel from a local liquor store as well. Enjoyed your video; thinking about trying the Elijah Craig 12 yr next.

[@JeremyDore]

FMichael1970 Out of all of his picks, EC 12 is the best and most consistent, imo.

[@FMichael1970]

Jeremy Dore Thanks for the reply! Something to look forward to.

[@papa-ua]

FMichael1970 Elijah Craig isn't my favorite, but man...it has the absolute greatest nose of any bourbon I've ever tried like pancake syrup...I absolutely understand those that say it is their favorite, it just isn't mine... My favorite top shelf are Jeffersons, Angels Envy, Woodford Reserve, Bookers, EWSB. Every Day Drinker...George Dickel #12, Evan Williams Black Label, WT101. Enjoy!

[@joey1142]

which is the best tasting of the list in ur opinion ? ima huge taste guy i like the sweet bourbons

[@dave-nw4zr]

Yes, yes and yes. Great choices. Sad days though that half of these aren't under 30 anymore.

[@greatreo]

So with Eagle Rare in a few states it is over 30 dollars is there a similar product out there with a similar profile that you would recommend as a substitute.

[@LiquorHound]

John B - Well there's Bulleit bourbon. It's a fairly delicate high rye bourbon that has a good price to quality ratio. I would normally suggest Wild Turkey 101 or Knob Creek as my next two "top choices", but both of those are much bigger and spicier than the Eagle Rare. Cheers!

[@DAVIDJALVAREZ]

Do you know I can find W.L Weller? I am in California.

[@joshuabaca6257]

I can find some at bevmo, getting harder to find though. also total wine has them.

[@DLK262]

Where's the Makers at in this top 10?

[@LiquorHound]

+Josh Church - The standard Makers would probably rank 11th or 12th on this list (Knob Creek would be before it). Now if I bumped it up to $60 and under, the Cask Strength Makers might have a chance of cracking the top 10 (I'd have to think about it though). Cheers!

[@rickslade340]

Makers Mark is tourist bourbon.

[@LarryRickenbacker]

Of the Bourbons here that I've tried, Buffalo Trace proved a disappointment, even at it's low/moderate price point. Perhaps I've not a "Wheater". YMMV and MHO. I'm curious as to why Old Forester Signature wasn't on this list as it's fantastic! RR 1792 is indeed a good Bourbon.

[@rachellyons8712]

+LarryRickenbacker Glad I'm not the only person who finds Buffalo Trace to be unimpressive. That goes for their Eagle Rare as well in my opinion. Got a bottle of that 1792 I'm looking forward to cracking open soon :)

[@piyushsopory5817]

u mentioned it. 1792 with water just ruined it.

[@jlcrane82]

Hi, I'm just beginning to get into bourbons. When you described the Larceny "doughiness", what do you mean? Also, which one of these you reviewed would you recommend? Cheers!

[@LiquorHound]

Jeff Crane - Doughiness to me is like the inside of a warm soft yeast roll or even fresh dough that you're allowing to rise. They're all good, but a solid pick for most Bourbon drinkers is the Elijah Craig 12. Cheers!

[@gregnewland2005]

Great review but I was wondering why didn't you include Knob Creek and Woodford Reserve?

[@LiquorHound]

Greg Newland - Knob Creek is great and it was my first runner up. I didn't include it in my "Top 10" since most of the ones I've had are rather big and spicy. But if I were to place it in my list, I'd probably sub out the softer Eagle Rare for it. As for Woodford Reserve, it's nice but I much prefer the Double Oaked version from them and it wouldn't have met the "under $30" qualification. Cheers!

[@Dave-cl5no]

this was great. something that a really detailed video can be justified for. do another for under $60!

[@jordankassabaum1588]

LiquorHound, I am looking for a good quality bourbon for under $30 that I can use in cocktails and for sipping neat. Although I like both, I'm curious if it's better in this situation to go with a wheated or ryed bourbon. What would you recommend?

[@StevenCryar]

I would suggest the Elijah Craig. It's one of the best all-around Bourbons on the market imho. I've had Bourbons two and three times the cost of Elijah Craig that weren't anywhere close to the quality of it

[@Donc-hs4cd]

Hey Buddy have a question I found Evan Williams 2004 there was 3 bottles I bought one should I go back and buy the other 2

[@LiquorHound]

+Donald Little Jr - Those EW single barrels can be up and down (although there was some good ones in 2004). I'd open and try the one you bought, and if it's tasty, go buy the others. Cheers!

[@yeswing10]

Dear Liquor Hound, wondering if all the bottles behind you is your personal collection or do you own a bar ?

[@LiquorHound]

+Suzanne Curry - It is my personal home bar, and probably 98% of it was self purchased from retail stores. Cheers!

[@1313ryanchatfield]

Hey ***** i was toying with the idea of trying a blended scotch..iv only ever had canadian whiskies and some irish whiskeys (I'm canadian) i was looking at johnnie walker red label, dewars, or grants what would you suggest for a cheap but good blended scotch?

[@LiquorHound]

Ryan Chatfield - I personally enjoy Black Bull 12 or even their Kyloe version over the JW Red. Dewars or Grants. Cheers!

[@briandrier3420]

+ryan c teachers highland cream is an old standby--as is white horse. they're both quite inexpensive and fine in a pinch, IMHO...

[@SwissMarksman]

"Sadly" the 1792 is the only one available for me, that I don't have to import. But I really like that one. Thank you for the video!

[@timothyfuller369]

I have about half of these (Eagle Rare, Buffalo Trace, Four Roses, Old Weller and W.L Weller 12) I am debating whether to buy the Elijah Craig 12 or the Larceny next. Which would you recommend? (My favorite Bourbon right now that I have is Stagg Jr.)

[@LiquorHound]

Timothy Fuller - If Stagg Jr. is your favorite, I'd next suggest the Elijah Craig 12 (or the Barrel Proof version if you find it). Cheers!

[@timothyfuller369]

***** thank you for your recommendation. I ended up buying both and I do like the boldness of the Elijah Craig 12. But, both are quality bourbons.

[@oldiesgeek1]

+Timothy Fuller i just bought my first bottle of bourbon about a month ago. so, by no means am i an expert. however, after some online research i settled on Evan Williams 2005 single barrel. i thought it was quite good for my first time. i paid $27.99 for a 750ml here in utah.

[@timothyfuller369]

oldiesgeek1 I heard the 2004 was really good, I am intrigued that you mention the 2005 is good as well. I have also seen the 2006 Evan Williams as well in stores. ***** any suggestions on these?

[@briandrier3420]

+oldiesgeek1 i bought the same 2005 vintage... it was nice--but, at first tasting, it seemed virtually a dead ringer for the less expensive elijah craig 12 (same distillery, heaven hill, so not entirely surprising, i guess...)

[@misterbiker1419]

IMHO Larceny is the best kept secret in bourbon today. If you don't like it, you just don't like bourbon. It is readily available, reasonably priced and just plain good stuff.

[@bobcloughjr]

Stop trying to be an elitist. Lmao

[@jclar7210]

I recently bought a Elijah Craig no age statement anymore like before, did not like it, too rough on the edges. It's a good list Liquor hound, but also recently bought eagle rare for the first time in 3 years and that was rough. I would easily replace Wild Turkey 101 for those 2 bourbons. it's just a magnificent taste for the price. I'm disappointed with EC also, just not what it was 4 years ago. Take away the 12 year age statement and it was never the same. Nobody cares about quantity, quality is what it's about. Also not a fan of Four Roses small batch, it's also rough, prefer the single barrel. I hope these companies can keep some consistency. Cheers! Enjoy!

[@jclar7210]

Also last note, making barrel proof bottles I don't think is a way of making up for the loss of good taste and consistency,. It's undrinkable to me because the alcohol is too high. I know alot of people that like bourbon but not one of them have ever bought or interested in barrel proof. Cheers!

[@LiquorHound]

True true. My Best 5 Bourbons Under $30 video is about to release in just a few minutes and you'll see one of the ones you mentioned listed. ;-) Cheers!

[@ljbrandt500]

Which would you recommend to someone that prefers a dry bourbon (not too sweet)? I have a bottle of buffalo trace which is very flavorful but just too sweet for my taste.

[@LiquorHound]

+ljbrandt500 - Hmm, I'd think you'd be looking for a ryed Bourbon with some age on it since rye is less sweet than wheat and the wood tannins would help dry it out. Maybe an Evan Williams Single Barrel would fit that bill and at $30, it wouldn't be that much of a risk. Or if you don't mind big spice, Booker's is a big bourbon that usually doesn't come off as "sweet". This is just a tough one for me since most people (and distilleries) try to keep Bourbons sweet and round. The Orphan Barrel line of aged bourbons isn't very sweet and they mostly run between 15-22 years of age so the wood is there to help dry them out. So if you have $75-$100 to spend, I'm pretty sure those would also work (but start with the Evan Williams SB). Cheers!

[@briandrier3420]

+LiquorHound amen to your recommendation of booker's! my personal preference is a lot like ljbrandt500, maybe typical of someone who has come over from the scotch side for a visit. (my go-to scotch is laphroaig quarter cask, and i'm a big fan of the islay expressions in general, so maybe that gives you some idea of where i'm coming from). in fact, my first scotch purchase was the quarter cask, and i have yet to find anything i enjoy more (as opposed to differently). with bourbon, i've only been through 6-7 expressions to date (although i plan on buying 3 new ones tomorrow: bulleit; baker's; and four roses single barrel), but my first bottle was booker's, and so far it stands head and shoulders above the crowd as a start-to-finish crowd-pleaser of an experience! incidentally, i'm in japan and have seen bottles of buffalo trace for sale online identified as 40% abv as well as 45% abv. what can you tell me about this? is the 40% expression an export only? or just older/newer? i want to buy the 45% incarnation when i spring for what many seem to think is a top budget bourbon... oh, and by the way, to ljbrandt500, i would recommend the elijah craig 12 as not too sweet--and add a couple of real budget values in fighting cock 6 year (or the newer NAS version) and perhaps old granddad 114...

[@ljbrandt500]

+Brian Drier thank you - really appreciate the suggestions!

[@briandrier3420]

my pleasure... happy drinking, cheers, slainte, and l'chaim! lol

[@bananapatch9118]

“No Honey, really...for this video I HAD TO drink 10 bourbons today ! 😜”

[@Hickbilly9]

I see Makers Mark or Makers 46 didn't make the cut. Why and do you think they are too wheaty?

[@LiquorHound]

At the time I just didn't have room for another wheater in the lineup. I enjoy Maker's and their 46, but if I were to include one now, I'd go with the 46. Cheers!

[@sonofa76]

four roses is my daily bourbon

[@tobito4468]

I see Binny's has the Oloroso Bealle Meade for $70. Do you think it is worth grabbing?

[@LiquorHound]

Tobi To - Yes! That Oloroso Belle Meade is a bargain at $70. Cheers!

[@JeremyDore]

***** Sounds kinda pricey for column still whiskey... they are all trying to gouge nowadays so whatevs.

[@FMichael1970]

Even though the Elijah Craig 12 yr is on my list - store nearby has both the Four Roses Small Batch, and Four Roses Single Barrel...Can anyone give me an idea of what these 2 are like, and is one preferred over the other?

[@LiquorHound]

FMichael1970 - Most of the standard Four Roses single barrels are a bit bolder and hotter (at 100 proof) than the rounder and easier drinking small batch version (90 proof). As for which is better, that all depends on what you like in a Bourbon. To me, they're both great and it just depends on my mood or how I'm using them (neat or in a cocktail). Cheers!

[@FMichael1970]

***** What's your take on the Wild Turkey 101? I'm really enjoying it - sweet, and loads of spice.

[@Joshsou7]

My first bottle of Eagle Rare was probably one of the best bourbon's I've had...the second bottle has left a lot to be desired....

[@jpsinger16]

+Joshsou7 I bought a bottle of Eagle Rare a few years ago and it was awful. It had a bitter rubbing alcohol flavor that made me think it was badly distilled. I believe I've heard elsewhere that their bottlings are inconsistent.

[@22Catch22]

I've read people making similar remarks about Eagle Rare, although my experience has been just the opposite. ER has been my regular pour since 1980 and despite the various changes in bottling and proof, I've found it to be very reliable and consistent. Back in 1980, it was 101 proof and a batched bourbon. It has since become a single barrel at 90 proof, though still quite good and there are variations on any single barrel bourbon, though I've never bought a bad one. Even now, it's still far more likely to have single barrel character than not.

[@michaeljohnston9890]

Have you tried the Evan Williams SB 2017 batches.

[@LiquorHound]

Sorry, I have not. If I do, I'll let you know. Cheers!

[@presterjohn71]

The only Bourbon on that list that is available to me in the UK at a good price is Buffalo Trace. I have a bottle of Elijah Craig but that was on a sale at £26.00. The retail on that one would be around $45.00. 1792 is around the $75 level.

[@presterjohn71]

***** I'm pretty sure it was just the standard stuff

[@welshtoro3256]

Buffalow Trace in the U.K has been now been reduced to 40% ABV (80 proof) and is subsequently ruined.

[@BryanGarcia-hd9bu]

George Dickel isn't good enough to make this group?

[@LiquorHound]

+Bryan Garcia - Well Dickel likes to classify themselves as Tennessee Whiskey, so I left them and Jack out of the running. Cheers!

[@Kriztofer333]

What would you recommend for someone looking for a sweet bourbon with not a lot of spice?

[@LiquorHound]

+Blake Christopher - Hmm, I'd think the Weller Special Reserve (& 107 Antique or 12 year if you can find them) might fit that bill as would Heaven Hill's Larceny. I'd tend to lean toward wheated bourbons for sweetness with less spice. Another option would be a "finished" bourbon like Belle Meade's "Oloroso Sherry" finished bourbon. That one is sweet and very tasty. Of course there's always the better Canadian Whiskies which are sweet and soft without a lot of spice. Most of the Highwood's and Alberta Premium's fit that style, but then there's Alberta's "Dark Horse" (aka "Dark Batch" here in the states) which takes it further by adding 8% corn whiskey and some sherry to the blend to make it sweeter and richer. Cheers!

[@Kriztofer333]

thanks. i really appreciate it. ill give them a try

[@predwards8941]

Any good suggestions if your wanting to spend an extra buck? Let's say the $45-60 range...

[@LiquorHound]

nick edwards For a little more, I'd recommend any of the Smooth Ambler Old Scouts (they've been very good lately). You could also go with Booker's, Knob Creek Single Barrel, Noah's Mill, Belle Meade's "Oloroso Sherry 9 year Bourbon" (if you can still find it), or Woodford Reserve Double Oaked. Cheers!

[@predwards8941]

Thanks so much! I appreciate it.

[@tomjohnson1252]

The Weller is my second favorite

[@Desmond000007]

Which one works best with coke? I cant drink hard liqueur..

[@LiquorHound]

To answer this question, I have to look no further than my best friend. He loves a little Coke with his Bourbon/American Whiskies. I’m sure all these would taste just fine with it, but he’d probably tell you that American Whiskies blend easier and end up tasting a little sweeter with Coke. Enjoy and cheers!

[@polocash11]

I can now get the Basil Hayden at $30, age not given. Would this make this list?

[@LiquorHound]

It’s close but probably would sit just outside my top 10. Cheers!

[@polocash11]

@@LiquorHound I am looking for my first bottle of bourbon. $32 and below for the best taste.

[@polocash11]

I started with WT Rare Breed 116.8.

[@welshtoro3256]

Great selection Hound. Fast forward 16 months and some of these are very hard to find so a good shout out for the Knob Creek. Buffalo Trace is 40% in the U.K. Cheap but I'm not interested at 40%. Some Single Cask has come onto the market at 45% for £70. I'm suspicious it will taste pretty much like your bottles but over twice the price. Why bottle single cask at 45% for Pete's sake? I'm not a millionaire, do you think it's worth the money? WT

[@jamesd.wheeler6190]

Mr Liquor must have got a good Buzz from this Vlog. Taking one for the team!

[@VaryingViewpoint]

Great review!

[@MRKTM690smc]

Good luck finding any Elmer, W107, or W12 in my area.... or surrounding areas for that matter.

[@MRKTM690smc]

funny thing, I just got myself a bottle of Elmer on Friday... just gotta hang in there hoping I guess...

[@Flightle]

How do you prevent fatigue of your senses with all those bourbons?

[@LiquorHound]

+Forest Lightle - Practice of course! ;-) And the fact that I've had all those so many times, it's almost second nature as to what I discover in them. Cheers!

[@freddieslaughter1107]

Which do you like the best Woodford reserve or Knob Creek?

[@LiquorHound]

For my palate, that's easily Knob Creek. Cheers!

[@nathanp8247]

Great review, I tasted Buffalo trace and Eagle Rare and got the same thing as you Buffalo trace spicier in finish. Really want to try the Weller's. Have not been able to find them yet. (Side note).. Have you tried the Wild Turkey Rye 81, I get a lot of cooked sweat corn on finish, its good, and its hard for me to pick out notes, but getting better I think.

[@presterjohn71]

+nathan p I found that the Wild Turkey was like sucking on a damp plank. All wood and nothing else. It is a shame as it is one of the few Bourbons you can buy cheap in the UK where I am. Give me Buffalo Trace or Bulliet over that stuff any day. Each to his own though.

[@aletamelendrez8030]

nathan p you will love Weller's it is my favorite.

[@nathanp8247]

Yah... I found Weller's Special Reserve. It is really good.

[@mikefetter9158]

of those i've tried recall elijah craig 12 most fondly. buffalo trace? - never again.

[@MatthewSingapore]

'has been good for a very long time' - well said

[@iamthesenate6827]

Watching this in 2022. RIP to Eagle Rare, Elmer T. Lee, and Weller.

[@wildernessman760]

What does leather taste like? I understand the leather notes on the nose. But on taste? I never experienced a leather taste.

[@LiquorHound]

Taste and smell are very much intertwined. They say 80-90% of our “tastes” are derived from the notes we smell as were chewing. That’s why if you pinch your nose as you eat, you’ll lose a lot of the foods flavor. So if you know what it smells like, you pretty much know what it tastes like. Cheers!

[@wildernessman760]

LiquorHound so what you're saying is that you can taste what leather smells like. Gocha my pallet is still becoming more developed as i journey these fine whiskies. Ty for the reply. Cheers to you.

[@dvran]

I always get a taste of beets in the aftertaste of Eagle Rare.

[@dylanholt9906]

No Wild Turkey 101?

[@LiquorHound]

Dylan Holt - And the fallout has begun. ;) Like I mentioned in a reply to Funky Tape, I do enjoy WT 101, but I felt it might be too hot of a Bourbon to make my Top 10. But like the Knob Creek, it could be very tasty substitute. Cheers!

[@dylanholt9906]

***** Nah. No fallout. If everyone agreed about what the ten best bourbons were, I wouldn't be watching this video. :) Larceny is going to be my next purchase. Cheers!

[@JeremyDore]

Dylan Holt I'd try Larceny before buying a whole bottle. Young wheaters aren't all they are cracked up to be.

[@freddieslaughter1107]

what is better Larceny or Weller?

[@LiquorHound]

Mmmm that's a tough one since Weller has been having some real quality variance issues imo. I'd probably go with Larceny, but I haven't tried any current bottles from them in a couple of years (so I hope they're still as good as they were). Cheers!

[@barnz008]

Oh my, it's a Wild Turkey and Beam shut out! ;) Weller 12 did make a brief nationwide appearance here not too long ago. Of course, its 'the new Pappy' and therefore somewhow worth $100 a fifth. Not.

[@LiquorHound]

Funky Tape - Hey, I at least gave Knob Creek the nod if Elmer T. Lee was unavailable. ;) And I do enjoy WT 101, but I felt it might be too hot of a Bourbon to make my Top 10. But like the Knob Creek, it could be very tasty substitute. Cheers!

[@zachsmith3376]

In tuscaloosa al buffalo trace aint to be found.