You've mastered bourbon. You've got the glassware. You know how to pour a proper Guinness. But there's one ingredient sitting on every great bar that most people ignore, misunderstand, or have never even heard of: bitters.
Saturday, December 20, 2025
Thursday, December 18, 2025
10 Best Bourbon Whiskeys Under $50 for Beginners in 2026
You want to start drinking bourbon, but you have no idea where to begin and are staring at a shelf of 200 bottles in a liquor store. Some are $30. Some are $300. Some have fancy wax seals. Some have labels that look like they were designed in 1820. Which one do you actually buy?
Here's the good news: you don't need to drop a paycheck on bourbon to get the good stuff. Some of the best bottles for learning what bourbon is all about cost less than $50. And unlike wine, where cheap usually means bad, affordable bourbon can be absolutely excellent.
This guide breaks down the 10 best bourbons under $50 for people who are new to whiskey or just want reliable bottles that won't break the bank. Every bottle on this list is widely available, reasonably priced, and will teach you something about what makes bourbon special.
What Makes a Good Beginner Bourbon?
Before we dive into the bottles, here's what we're looking for in a beginner-friendly bourbon:
1. Smooth and approachable - Not harsh, not overwhelming. You should be able to sip it neat without making a face.
2. Classic bourbon profile - Caramel, vanilla, oak, a bit of spice. These are the baseline flavors you need to understand bourbon.
3. Widely available - No point recommending something you can't find. These bottles are at most liquor stores.
4. Good value - You're getting quality that matches or exceeds the price.
5. Versatile - Works neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails. You're still figuring out how you like to drink it, so flexibility matters.
Every bottle on this list checks those boxes. Now let's get to the recommendations.
🥃 Build Your Bourbon Starter Kit
Before you start tasting, make sure you've got the right gear. Here's what every bourbon beginner needs:
- Glencairn Whiskey Glasses (Set of 4) - Essential for nosing and tasting - $30-40
- Large Ice Sphere Molds - Chill without over-diluting - $12-18
- Whiskey Stones Set - Alternative to ice - $15-25
- Bourbon Tasting Journal - Track what you like - $10-15
Total starter kit cost: Under $100
Want the full breakdown? Check our complete guide: Essential Bar Tools Every Bourbon Lover Needs
The Top 10 Bourbons Under $50 for Beginners
1. Buffalo Trace ($25-30)
Why it's great: This is the bourbon that makes people fall in love with bourbon. Buffalo Trace is smooth, balanced, and showcases everything classic about the spirit—caramel, vanilla, brown sugar, a touch of spice, with just enough complexity to keep it interesting.
Tasting notes: Sweet and rich upfront with notes of toffee and dark fruit, followed by a warm, spicy finish. It's not too sweet, not too oaky, not too anything. Just really well-made bourbon.
Proof: 90 proof (45% ABV)
Best for: Sipping neat or on the rocks. Also makes an excellent Old Fashioned or Manhattan.
Where to find it: Available at most liquor stores, Total Wine, or order online via Uber Eats or ReserveBar.
Pro tip: Buffalo Trace is part of the same distillery family as Pappy Van Winkle and Eagle Rare, but it's always in stock and affordable. That's the real magic—consistent quality at a price that doesn't hurt.
Best enjoyed in: A proper Glencairn glass to appreciate all those subtle flavors.
2. Maker's Mark ($28-32)
Why it's great: Maker's Mark is a wheated bourbon, which means it uses wheat instead of rye in the mash bill. The result? Softer, sweeter, and incredibly easy to drink. If you're worried bourbon might be too harsh or spicy for you, this is your entry point.
Tasting notes: Sweet caramel, vanilla, honey, and a hint of cinnamon. Very smooth with almost no burn. The finish is gentle and slightly fruity.
Proof: 90 proof (45% ABV)
Best for: Beginners who want smooth sipping, cocktails, or anyone who prefers sweeter spirits.
Where to find it: Everywhere. Seriously, every liquor store carries Maker's Mark.
Pro tip: That red wax seal isn't just for show—each bottle is hand-dipped at the distillery. It's a small detail, but it adds to the experience.
Perfect pairing: Pour over large ice spheres for a perfectly chilled, slow-melting drink.
3. Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond ($18-22)
Why it's great: This is the best bourbon bargain in America. Under $20 for a 7+ year-old, 100-proof bottled-in-bond bourbon that tastes like it should cost $40. If you're on a budget or just want incredible value, this is it.
Tasting notes: Rich caramel, toasted oak, baking spices, and a hint of cherry. The higher proof gives it more intensity and flavor without being harsh. This is a serious bourbon at a non-serious price.
Proof: 100 proof (50% ABV)
Best for: Sipping, mixing, everyday drinking. Honestly, everything. At this price, you can use it for cocktails without guilt and still enjoy it neat.
Where to find it: Most liquor stores, especially in the South and Midwest. Increasingly available nationwide.
Pro tip: The white label bottled-in-bond version is what you want, not the black label standard Evan Williams. The BiB designation means it meets strict quality standards from 1897. Learn more about bottled-in-bond here.
Mix it right: At 100 proof, this shines in cocktails. Grab a jigger and bar spoon to make proper Old Fashioneds.
4. Wild Turkey 101 ($23-28)
Why it's great: Wild Turkey 101 is bold, unapologetic, and full of character. This is for people who want to taste what bourbon is really about—none of that timid, watered-down stuff. It's got backbone, spice, and intensity, but it's not overwhelming if you're willing to meet it halfway.
Tasting notes: Caramel, vanilla, cinnamon, black pepper, and charred oak. There's a lot going on here. The spice is prominent but balanced by sweetness. The finish lingers with warmth and a bit of leather.
Proof: 101 proof (50.5% ABV)
Best for: People who want bold flavors, cocktail enthusiasts (it holds up beautifully in mixed drinks), or anyone ready to graduate from super-smooth entry bourbons.
Where to find it: Everywhere. Wild Turkey is a staple.
Pro tip: Don't let the higher proof scare you. A few drops of water or a single ice cube opens it up beautifully and tames any harshness.
Tame the heat: Try whiskey stones to chill without dilution, or add a splash of water to open up the flavors.
5. Four Roses Small Batch ($30-35)
Why it's great: Four Roses uses a unique approach—they blend different bourbon recipes to create complexity you don't usually find at this price point. The result is a bourbon with layers of flavor that reveal themselves as you sip. It's like a masterclass in what blending can achieve.
Tasting notes: Floral notes (yes, really), red berries, caramel, honey, and a touch of spice. It's fruity without being sweet, complex without being confusing. Every sip is a little different.
Proof: 90 proof (45% ABV)
Best for: People who want something interesting and nuanced. Great for slow sipping and contemplative drinking.
Where to find it: Widely available at most liquor stores and online retailers.
Pro tip: Four Roses is one of the few bourbons that actually benefits from being slightly chilled. Don't over-ice it, but a touch of cold brings out those floral and fruit notes beautifully.
6. Elijah Craig Small Batch ($28-32)
Why it's great: Elijah Craig delivers a rich, oaky, full-bodied bourbon that punches way above its price. It's got depth, character, and the kind of complexity that makes you want to sit with it for a while. This is a bourbon for people who want to really taste something.
Tasting notes: Caramelized sugar, toasted oak, brown butter, dark chocolate, and a hint of smoke. The oak presence is strong but not overpowering. The finish is long and warm with lingering spice.
Proof: 94 proof (47% ABV)
Best for: Neat sipping or a killer Manhattan. This bourbon has enough structure to hold its own in cocktails but shines best on its own.
Where to find it: Most liquor stores. Elijah Craig is a reliable shelf staple.
Pro tip: This used to carry a 12-year age statement, but Heaven Hill (the distillery) dropped it to meet demand. Don't let that scare you off—it's still excellent, likely 8-10 years old, and the quality hasn't dipped.
Savor it slowly: Use a Glencairn glass and take your time. This one rewards patience.
7. Woodford Reserve ($32-38)
Why it's great: Woodford Reserve is polished, refined, and approachable. It's the bourbon you serve to guests who "don't really like whiskey" and watch them change their minds. It's smooth without being boring, and it's got just enough character to be interesting.
Tasting notes: Toasted nuts, dried fruit, caramel, hints of cocoa, and a subtle spice. Very balanced with no single flavor dominating. The mouthfeel is rich and slightly creamy.
Proof: 90.4 proof (45.2% ABV)
Best for: Beginners who want something elegant, cocktail enthusiasts (it makes a phenomenal Mint Julep), or anyone looking for a "fancy" bourbon that's actually accessible.
Where to find it: Everywhere, including grocery stores in many states.
Pro tip: Woodford is the official bourbon of the Kentucky Derby and makes the best Mint Julep you'll ever taste. If you're entertaining, this is a safe, crowd-pleasing choice.
8. Old Forester 100 Proof ($24-28)
Why it's great: Old Forester has serious bourbon pedigree—it's the longest continuously distilled bourbon brand in America, surviving even Prohibition. The 100-proof expression is bold, flavorful, and shockingly affordable for what you're getting. It's a high-quality bourbon that doesn't get the hype it deserves.
Tasting notes: Brown sugar, cherry, orange peel, baking spices, and a solid oak backbone. The higher proof gives it intensity without harshness. There's a slight fruitiness that makes it stand out from other bourbons at this price.
Proof: 100 proof (50% ABV)
Best for: People who want bold flavor and good value. Great for cocktails or sipping with a little water.
Where to find it: Widely available, though sometimes overlooked in favor of flashier bottles.
Pro tip: Old Forester is made by Brown-Forman, the same company behind Woodford Reserve and Jack Daniel's. This is their workhorse bourbon—consistent, reliable, and priced to move.
Track your progress: Use a bourbon tasting journal to note what you taste. It'll train your palate faster.
9. Knob Creek Small Batch ($35-42)
Why it's great: Knob Creek is full-bodied, rich, and unapologetically bold. At 9 years old and 100 proof, it delivers serious bourbon character at a price that won't make you wince. This is what bourbon tastes like when it's done right and given time to mature.
Tasting notes: Deep caramel, toasted oak, vanilla, dark fruit, and a touch of smoke. There's a nuttiness here, think roasted almonds or hazelnuts, that adds complexity. The finish is long and warm with lingering spice and oak.
Proof: 100 proof (50% ABV)
Best for: People ready for a bolder bourbon with age and structure. Great neat, on the rocks, or in spirit-forward cocktails like an Old Fashioned.
Where to find it: Widely available. Knob Creek is a Jim Beam product, so distribution is solid.
Pro tip: Knob Creek recently brought back the 9-year age statement after dropping it for a while. Make sure you're getting the version that says "Aged 9 Years" on the label, it's worth the few extra bucks.
10. Larceny Small Batch ($26-30)
Why it's great: Larceny is another wheated bourbon (like Maker's Mark), but it's got more personality and complexity. It's smooth and sweet but with enough going on to keep seasoned bourbon drinkers interested. At under $30, it's a steal.
Tasting notes: Buttery caramel, honey, vanilla, baked apple, and a hint of cinnamon. The wheat gives it a creamy, soft mouthfeel. The finish is gentle with a touch of butterscotch.
Proof: 92 proof (46% ABV)
Best for: People who like sweeter, softer bourbons but want more depth than Maker's Mark. Great for sipping neat or in dessert-style cocktails.
Where to find it: Most liquor stores carry it, though it's sometimes less prominent than other Heaven Hill brands.
Pro tip: The name "Larceny" comes from the legend of John E. Fitzgerald, a treasury agent who allegedly used his keys to steal the best bourbon barrels. Whether it's true or not, it's a great story.
🍸 Master Bourbon Cocktails
Now that you've got great bourbon, learn to mix it properly:
- Cocktail Mixing Glass & Bar Spoon Set - For proper stirred cocktails - $25-35
- Double Jigger (1oz/2oz) - Precise measurements matter - $10-15
- Cocktail Recipe Book - Classic bourbon drinks - $15-20
- Bitters Variety Pack - Angostura, orange, chocolate - $25-30
Want the full cocktail setup? See our guide: Essential Bar Tools Every Bourbon Lover Needs
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| Image by www.invaluable.com |
How to Taste Bourbon Like You Know What You're Doing
You've got the bottles. Now here's how to actually taste them properly:
1 Use the Right Glass
A Glencairn or similar tulip-shaped glass concentrates the aromas. Rocks glasses are fine for casual drinking, but if you want to really taste the bourbon, use proper glassware.
2 Look at It
Hold the glass up to light. Notice the color—darker usually means more time in the barrel. Swirl it and watch the "legs" run down the side. Thicker, slower legs suggest higher proof or more age.
3 Nose It First
Before you taste, smell. Keep your mouth slightly open to avoid the alcohol burn overwhelming your nose. What do you smell? Caramel? Vanilla? Spice? Oak? Fruit?
4 Sip Small
Take a small sip and let it coat your tongue. Don't swallow immediately. Move it around your mouth. What flavors come through? How does it feel—thick and oily, or light and crisp?
5 Add Water If You Want
A few drops of water or a small ice cube can open up the bourbon and reduce alcohol burn. There's no "wrong" way to drink it. Do what tastes good to you.
6 Note the Finish
After you swallow, what lingers? Does it fade quickly or hang around? Is it sweet, spicy, oaky, smooth?
7 Track What You Taste
Use a tasting journal or notes app to record your impressions. Over time, you'll start recognizing patterns in what you like.
Pro move: Grab a bourbon tasting journal and track every bottle you try. You'll learn your preferences way faster.
What to Skip (Bottles That Aren't Worth It)
Not every affordable bourbon is a good bourbon. Here are a few to avoid:
Jim Beam White Label ($15-18): It's cheap, but there's a reason. Harsh, one-dimensional, and better suited for mixing than sipping. If you're on a tight budget, go with Evan Williams BiB instead.
Old Crow ($12-15): Bottom-shelf bourbon that tastes like it. Not worth saving a few bucks.
Heaven Hill ($14-17): The standard expression is rough. Heaven Hill makes great bourbon (Elijah Craig, Larceny), but this ain't it.
Anything labeled "bourbon whiskey blend": If it doesn't say "straight bourbon" or just "bourbon," it's been cut with neutral grain spirits or additives. Skip it.
Where to Buy Bourbon Online
Can't find these bottles locally? Here's where to order online:
Uber Eats: Order alcohol delivery in 35+ states through the Uber Eats app. Often same-day delivery with competitive pricing. Check availability in your area.
ReserveBar: Premium spirits retailer with curated selections and gift options. Great for special bottles and nationwide shipping where legal.
Minibar Delivery: On-demand alcohol delivery in major cities across the U.S. Quick delivery times and good selection.
Total Wine: If you have a store nearby, order online and pick up in-store to avoid shipping fees. One of the largest selections in the country.
Local liquor store websites: Many independent shops now offer local delivery or curbside pickup. Support local when you can—they often have knowledgeable staff and unique picks.
Important note: Alcohol delivery laws vary significantly by state. Some states don't allow it at all, while others have restrictions on what can be shipped. Always check your local regulations before ordering.
Your Bourbon Journey Starts Here
I am not suggesting that you need to try all 10 of these bottles at once. Start with one or two that sound interesting, taste them, take notes, and see what you think. Then try something different—maybe a wheated bourbon if you started with a high-rye, or a higher-proof bottle if you started smooth.
Every bourbon on this list will teach you something about the spirit. Buffalo Trace shows you classic balance. Wild Turkey 101 teaches you about boldness and spice. Maker's Mark demonstrates how wheat changes the profile. Evan Williams BiB proves that age and quality don't always cost a fortune.
The goal isn't to find the "best" bourbon—it's to find your bourbon. The one you reach for after a long day. The one you pour for friends. The one that makes you slow down and actually taste what you're drinking.
And here's the beauty of bourbon under $50: you can afford to explore. You can try different bottles, styles, and proofs to figure out what you like without breaking the bank. That's how you build a palate. That's how you go from "I guess I like bourbon" to "I know exactly what I want."
So grab a bottle from this list, pour yourself a glass, and get started. Your bourbon education begins now.
🎁 Perfect Bourbon Gift Set
Know someone getting into bourbon? Here's the ultimate starter gift bundle:
- Whiskey Decanter Set with Glasses - Classy presentation - $45-60
- Whiskey Stones Gift Box - Chill without dilution - $20-30
- Bourbon Lover's Cookbook - Recipes & pairings - $18-25
- Whiskey Flight Paddle Set - For tasting parties - $30-40
Perfect for: Father's Day, birthdays, holidays, or "just because"
Ready to dive deeper into bourbon? Check out How to Read a Bourbon Label Like a Whiskey Expert or learn What Does "Bottled in Bond" Actually Mean?
What's your go-to bourbon under $50? Any bottles we missed that deserve a spot on this list? Drop your recommendations in the comments!
About The Guinness Whisperer: Your late-night guide to everything Guinness, bourbon, scotch, and the fine art of drinking well. No pretension, just honest talk about what's worth pouring.
Tuesday, November 11, 2025
How Guinness Saved Irish Pubs Around the World
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Walk into an Irish pub in Boston, Sydney, Tokyo, or Buenos Aires, and you'll see the same thing: dark wood, dim lighting, Gaelic football on the TV, and Guinness on tap. It's not a coincidence. It's a lifeline that's been thrown across oceans for over a century.
Sunday, November 9, 2025
Essential Bar Tools Every Bourbon Lover Needs
You've got the bourbon. You've got the enthusiasm. But are you drinking it out of a coffee mug with a plastic ice cube tray on the side? Look, we're not judging—but you're missing out.
Setting up a proper home bourbon bar doesn't mean dropping hundreds on crystal decanters and vintage barware. You need a handful of essential tools that actually improve your drinking experience, not just look good on a shelf. Whether you're sipping solo on a Tuesday night or hosting friends for a tasting, these are the bar tools that separate bourbon drinkers from bourbon lovers.
The Secret History Behind Guinness's Famous Harp Logo
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| Image by Pasi Maenpaa from Pixabay |
You've seen it on every pint glass, every bottle, every pub sign from Dublin to Des Moines. That golden harp is as Irish as it gets—or is it? The story behind Guinness's most famous symbol is way stranger than you think.
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