As someone just getting into bourbon, I really appreciate videos like this. Quick, informational, and to the point, with no goofy gimmicks or other BS I’ve seen on other channels. Good stuff, thank you.
Great list! You covered some of my favorite ones. I'm tired of playing the allocation game and want to increasingly reward distillers and retailers who always have good bourbons in stock at fair market prices.
Great point. I think there is alot of truth to that and there are so many good options out there. Thats why I wanted to make the video. Im tired of seeing people chase Blantons when its not nearly the best bourbon not on the shelf. Cheers.
@@TheMashandDrum Thanks for the review: I purchased both the rare Breed and RR Single Barrel! I've also found EC Barrel Proof 12 yr for $53.00, but as a relative newbie (years of Buffalo Trace 7 year generic brand "Kelsey Creek" at 45%), I wonder if it'd be too strong......?
Evan Williams White Label (bottled in bond) That's the start and end of the list. Smooth, 100 proof, great taste, and ridiculously affordable. Mad respect for you having it at the start of the list. 👍🏻🙌🏻🥃
Just found this channel and I love it. This guy has the knowledge to make high end recommendations but lacks snobbery and has no problem extolling the virtues of affordable products
Thanks for the great list. I just bought 4 bourbons from your list and spent under 100 bucks. With that savings i splurged and bought a Laprhoaig 10 Cask Strength.
"I hope I am giving you all enough options" as Jason has 24 bourbons sitting right in front of him😂🤣 Just have to say I know how much work goes into the B roll and extra images and overlays you do, well worth the effort and it shows. Amazing episode brother!
This was a terrific summary. I started with basic Scotch, JWB and some tonic and have moved up to single malt scotch and water and bourbon and ice or old fashions. I always live to find the value purchase as well as keeping an eye out for a special treat. From you and people like Ralf’s I have recently been enjoying Old Forester 1920, 101, Elijah Craig the basic one, 1792, and in the malty world, Bunnahabain 12, Mortlach12, and searching for others including that Russell reserve and Arron 10. Cheers!
So glad I have several of these in my lineup, and none in the overhyped/over priced! I'm pretty new to bourbon, 3-4 years into drinking it haven't been taken yet.
Great selection. The Evan Williams single barrel reserve hands down the best. $24.00 a bottle but Drinks like 60-70$ bottle. Eagle Rare is a close second!
hands down the best bourbon video out there. you managed to list ALL of the top hitters, across websites and reviewers, of bourbons that are findable. this one will help a LOT of folks find great bourbon.
Excellent review, one of the best I’ve seen in years. Elijah Craig Barrel Proof is the best deal in bourbon, no doubt. However I must correct you on one aspect. If you are one of the lucky ones (like myself) to win the opportunity to purchase George T Stagg at retail prices during a BTAC raffle, the price is not $300-$400. Here in New Jersey, I paid $98 before tax on my 2017 Release. I also paid $112 for my 2019 William LaRue Weller during the most recent BTAC Release. Those high prices that you mentioned are secondary market, which is actually kinda low for GTS. I’ve seen an average price of between $600-$800.
Very informative! Mash and Drum is best reviewer put of the five I know of. Straightforward, serious, accurate reviews. Not trying to be a comic. Just reliable information. Thank you sir!
I found my go to product at Four Roses one day when I took some guests on the”Bourbon Trail”. Try the least expensive one that had the yellow label at one time. It will even work with an ice cube and definitely anything mixed, but I tend to like lower proof bourbons
On your and others recommendations I finally went out to try Old Grand Dad 114 and I have to say you're right it's an amazing bourbon! All of these are great choices and I have most of them in my collection already. The Old Ezera I'm going to have to try and find next... Cheers and thanks for another great video!
You do a great job on these informative videos. Well organized, right to the point, great visuals. This is what people need when they want quick info about things. Not a lot of jokes and nonsense like other channels. 👍👏
Good job, well done video and I agree with many of your selections. I was disappointed to see that McKenna 10 YO missed the cut. To me personally that is one of the best values in all of bourbon.
I just got started in Bourbon and this video would have saved me at least 2 to 3 k. I'm 3 months in and 103 bottles in with a Weller Fullproof, 2 EH Taylor single Barrel, 2 Small batch, 2 Bookers and a bunch of others that didn't even make your list. I have not even tried them yet and got back ups while I could, just in case I liked them. This was a great video. I'm really enjoying watching your new ones. I love the history and info you provide. The latest Evans Hill Rye was great. I want to try Pikesville and Elijah Craig Rye. I have Rittenhouse (I have not opened) but not the others. Thank you for all you do. 🍻
The wife and I just picked up the ECBP 2019 edition for $98. It's on the high end here in Kansas. The best bourbon I've had this year so far was Garrison Brothers, out of Texas. I would have loved to see you talk about Willett Rye as we have it here for under $50 and it's one of the best ryes for that dollar amount. Well done indeed.
Within the last year or so, I switched from whiskey to bourbon. I think bourbon is smoother, and I really enjoy that. I have been trying different ones, but I knew nothing about any of them. I had no idea which ones are good to try. This video is excellent. Thank you so much for this video.
I was writing these as fast as I could. You always give us the the skinny on brands that I can afford. Thank you for your efforts. I still can’t do the nose thing so I depend on you.
I recently tried the Four Roses Small Batch Select because of your review. It was great, what warmed my heart even more was that I got it at my local Indiana Costco for 49.99...a great value.
Really like this guy. Packs a ton of information into his videos with no nonsense. I would always trust one of his recommendations. So many choices out there…it could get kind of expensive. haha
Outstanding review. You’ve provided a plethora of bourbons to seriously consider. I’ve tried many different bottles based on your reviews and have never been disappointed. No need for a bourbon drinker to spend over $100 for an allocated bottle, if you can find them, when you describe so many excellent choices that are readily available at “reasonable” prices. From a native “Buckeye” now living in Virginia, thanks for the great reviews.
Your value list is larger than my entire collection lol but glad to see about 2/3 of these on my shelf. You’re awesome at what you do. Keep up the great content!
I am just getting into to the bourbon experience. This video definitely will help me with my future purchases, the last thing I want is to gamble on a brand of bourbon I know nothing about. Almost all of the bourbons in this video are well within my budget, and that's great to know, I will eventually have all them.
Absolutely the best place to get great info and honest evaluations about bourbon. So appreciated by someone just getting into bourbon and building a “treasure chest”….cheers !
Hands down best list like this I have seen. I know and can get every one of the whiskeys on this list. Even the honorable mentions were spot on that they may be great values but they are difficult to acquire. A majority of these lists have whiskeys that I’ve only seen in their video.
I've had about half of the bourbons on this list and think your list is excellent. The Knob Creek 15yr. 120 proof is outstanding, but for the price/value, the Evan Williams BIB or OGD 114 should be tops on anyone's list
Completely agree with you about the Old Forester 1920. I bought it at Costco as a double pack with the basic Old Forester, which I didn't really care for. The 1920, however, is my favorite bourbon I've tasted to date. Soo good!!!
Russell’s Reserve single barrel is DELICIOUS. It has that wild turkey warehouse flavor that is so great, and in such a better bourbon. For me it’s worth it to spend around the 40-50 range for value, the taste goes up significantly without having to go into the 100 dollar range
Rare Breed is my #1 all around favorite bourbon considering all factors - quality, availability , price , proof etc .. it just can’t be beat in my mind. WT101 has become my favorite budget pour too. With that said, Rare Breed has been tougher to find in cbus this past month, which has me kind of worried.
Always nice to see the OF 1920 getting it's deserved love! Also - respect to Wild Turkey Rare Breed - probably my favorite under 50.00 best! Truly robust and yet very sippy
I watch these budget bourbon videos frequently this is definitely one of the best put together videos for selection and editing for quick and good information. Easily one of my Favorite whiskey channels. Great work!
I'm a huge Four Roses fan, but I dunno. It's $50 in my area, and I just don't find it as strong an offering as other Bourbons in that range. Honestly, last time I had them side-by-side I preferred Roses' $30 classic Small Batch (which I consider a fairly good value). For my experience with single barrel, I'd rather Eagle Rare or Buffalo Trace even skipping the price. Now don't get me wrong, Four Roses makes for the most incredible blackberry and rosemary Old Fashioned, and single-barrel IS better for that... but who wants to pour from a $50 bottle for a mixed drink, unless they just don't like drinking that particular bottle neat?
Yes agreed. I actually preferred the single barrel to small batch select (NC is an ABC state and single barrel is $43 here and small batch select is $59)
Four roses hands down is the best of the four roses in my opinion. Its 39.99 at total wine and more, Fyi. It's fun to see what everyone likes even though we all have different palates . Cheers.
Great job on this review!! A lot on my bar and several on my radar for coming picks. You brought up some that have missed my radar and now I have to add them to it. This is an excellent opportunity for those wanting to get deeper into bourbon to branch out from the regular stuff.
Excellent list, and lots of details! Might I suggest a couple to try out for a future list?: I just paid $33 for Henry McKenna 10 year single barrel bottled-in-bond KSBW. Similar to Old Forrester 1920, but lower proof, and more rounded flavor: a bit more caramel and a bit less chocolate than 1920, but without the flat spot in the flavor profile. And half the price! I paid $39 for Blue Note Crossroads, a NAS SBW finished with toasted French Oak, at 100 proof, from Memphis, whose high rye (60/36/4) mashbill source isn’t stated, but looks like it may be Dickel like with Blue Note’s 9, 10, and 17 yr bourbons (the entry level 93 proof Juke Joint $26 is marked as KSBW). Toasted oak & gentle tannins arrive, and quickly balance with sweetness, crème brûlée, pecan praline, Excellent list, and lots of details. Might I suggest a couple to try out for a future list?: I just paid $33 for Henry McKenna 10 year single barrel bottled-in-bond KSBW. Similar to Old Forrester 1920, but lower proof, and more rounded flavor: a bit more caramel and a bit less chocolate than 1920, but without the flat spot in the flavor profile. And half the price! I paid $39 for Blue Note Crossroads, a NAS SBW finished with toasted French Oak, at 100 proof, from Memphis, whose high rye (60/36/4) mashbill source isn’t stated, but looks like it may be Dickel like with Blue Note’s 9, 10, and 17 yr bourbons (the entry level 93 proof Juke Joint $26 is marked as KSBW). Toasted oak & gentle tannins arrive, and quickly balance with sweetness, crème brûlée, pecan praline, a suggestion of berries, and a dignified cinnamon note in the finish. Cheers!🥃
Can't help but sharing this every chance I get, but I want people to take advantage & not over pay (if you are buying it anyway). In 2024 got WT 101 1.75L $32.50 total w taxes, etc., ($29.99 shelf/web price). EW BiB 1.75L $27.99. EW 86P 1.75L $16-18. Look around when you travel, call, check websites. You should be able to find it at that price or less & when you do, negotiate a price for a case or more and save an extra $1-3 per bottle. Plus have a better chance of getting a rare store pick (like OF SiB Barrel Proof) or an allocated bottle.
Excellent! Anybody new to Whiskey, you have no idea how much time & $$ you just saved, if you watched & follow the advise here. In 17+m, you just learned what would have cost you 100s of hours of research & $1000s wasted buying bad whiskey or over paying for good/Ok whiskey.. So, now the best value in whiskey is the information provided here!! The returns are infinite, since it was free to watch.
Great video, Jason....hard to argue with any of your picks. One that I like and would add flies so far under the radar I would have been shocked if you had mentioned it, and that's Very Old Barton 100 proof. I can find this for around $15 or $16, and personally I like it better than 1792 Small Batch, which goes for $10-$12 more. It's become my cheap go-to for something I can finish off the bottle and not feel bad about having to buy another.
VOB BIB 6 yr was probably the best values out there. Along with Heaven Hill 6 yr BIB, but they did away with it for a year. Then they brought is back as a 7 yr BIB in a different bottle with an MSRP over 2-3 times what it use to sell for. I found JW Dant BIB in GA a few years ago and that is another good one at $27 for 1.75L. I use to like EW BIB, but its got too much corn come through it these days. They need to add some rye to it.
A lot of my go to bourbons on this list. Namely Wild Turkey 101, Four Roses, Buffalo Trace, Eagle Rare. and Knob Creek. But no Angel's Envy? I love this bottle! for around 50 dollars (in my market), it is fantastic and different! I would pay ~$100 for what this delivers. But don't tell that to the distillery! I like paying what I pay now. ALWAYS have a bottle of Angel's Envy around.
It's funny how time changes things.. 10 years ago my favorite value was Weller Antique 107 for $25-$30. Now it's $150-$200 in secondary markets and it's super hard to find.
Great video. It looks as if a lot of the ones you mention early in the video might be hard to find in New England. Kind of surprised Bulleit is not on the list. That is my favorite value bourbon.
Great video! So many of my favorites here. I enjoy the rarer unicorn bottles when I can get them at retail, but this is where it's at. Very well done, Jason.
While I don't agree with all your selections (everyone's palette and tastes are different), it was definitely educational and gives me a few things to keep an eye out for and shake up my usual selections.
Yow! The birddog and I watched this, and I said, “I am writing that down!” My go-to guzzler nowadays is Ezra Brooks Bourbon; I can usually get 1.75 liters for $20.49 plus tax here in Cocoa Beach, Florida. Ain’t nothin’ wrong with that! I have -some- appreciation for other whiskeys and other spirits, beer, and wine, but I have quite a bit in common with “Jack” (Thomas Haden Church) in the movie “Sideways”, who says, “Tastes pretty good to me!” Ezra Brooks helps me leave the birddog’s fancy stuff be when all I really want to do is “just stay here and drink,” like Merle Haggard said …
Fantastic! Lots of value coming out of Heaven Hill. Love Russell's Reserve and the Knob Creek single barrels - always on the lookout for those. Well done.
Excellent video with tons of great options. Also, the only whiskey review video I've seen that actually recommends a regular line Jim Beam product. No snobs allowed - some people like Beam!
Much excellent information here...I totally concur with your assessment of the Elijah Craig products, currently working on a bottle of Barrel Strength (127 proof) that's quite good. I'd be interested to hear your take on Maker's Mark Private Select, basically a more finished 46 as it was described to me at my favorite liquor store, and on Henry McKenna 10 Year Old Single Barrel. I discovered it several years ago while touring the Bourbon Heritage Center at Heaven Hill, and really liked it. At the time I couldn't find anybody who seemed to know much about it, although my liquor store guys spoke very well of it. The price then was under 30 bucks, but since it won some prestigious awards a few years ago, the price has gone up significantly. Still affordable, but not available readily. Thanks again for another great video!
This video was amazing. I have, and enjoy, the majority of this list. I will be sitting down to watch again so I can make a list of the ones I don't have. Looking forward to trying them as well!!
Yea, this is a nice breakdown for newbies like me developing their palette and trying to figure out they like w out dropping big bucks. On your recs, I bought the EC small batch and Buffalo Trace and liking them both very much. As a long time scotch guy I'm finding there's so much affordable bourbon in comparison and it's just as complex if not more. I do tend to favor less sweet and more smoke so if you or anyone has any recs I'm all ears. thanks again!
Nailed it. OGD 114, WT101, Evan WIlliams White Label and Single Barrel all bang for the buck. Will have to try Rare Breed thanks to this review and all the comments! Here in Columbus, Ohio good luck finding Eagle Rare or Buffalo Trace anymore though.
JASON, I agree with 70% Of your picks as I have tasted or owned many of them. Much better choices than many of the overpriced allocated bottles people throw money at in the aftermarket. Got to love RUSSELL'S, Eagle Rare, and Rare Breed for value. BTW , where is the Woodford? BTW, Evan Williams 9 year is the real steal
I grew up in KY (blood kin to Jim Beam.) When I lived in PA I had a friend who made me always bring him Rebel Yell whenever I went home to visit family.
I completely agree with your take on OGD114. I've been saying the same for several years. It's an often overlooked bourbon that eventually will get noticed and the Blanton's mania will overtake it. For 114 proof it doesn't drink like it. ECBP is also widely available near me and I've been picking up every release for 6 years or so and still have a bottle of c917 hanging out.
Good video, exelennt picks. I really agree on the Jim Beam distillers cut. It's still on the shelf of my Total Wine for $18 and especially since Knob Creek lost it's 9yr age statment that makes it an outstanding value. Cheers
No Woodford Reserve, wow! Excellent video, really informative. Love Elijah Craig and think Larceny is good for the money as well good calls. You right about WT101 I think our childhood memories scare us away. Lol
Probably one of my favorite whiskey videos yet, dude (you or any other whiskeytuber). Cost/value is always a consideration for me. I like that you broke this up into price ranges, because as you mentioned, value is subjective and it's easy to forget that everyone is in a different financial situation at any given time. I've bought probably 45+ bottles in the last 3 years and have yet to pay anywhere close to 100+ for any of them. I wanted to get a handle on what good value bottles were out there for your 'average joe' that can't shell out a lot for a bottle. I also think it depends on how often you drink...$100 per bottle is a lot easier if you only have a pour a week vs. 4-5 a week, for example. Either way, this is a solid list and I hope that a lot or all of the ones on this list stay relatively affordable for us! Cheers.
I enjoyed this video! I wish you had provided the list so that I didn't have to play and pause. Great information to take with when shopping for bourbon. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!
Four Roses SB and Woodford Reserve I think are also amazing values. Then again, in my area they are around $30 and $35, which is a great value. But I understand they are often 5-10 bucks more than that in most places.
Really enjoyed watching this. (like all your videos) For me I find the Old Forester 100 to be hard to beat for $25.00. After watching this I went to Total Wine and picked up a bottle of Beam Distillers Cut ($18.99) which you mentioned in the video so it will fun to try something new. Keep up the great work!
Thanks man, this video is fantastic! I'm more of a scotch man, but trying to dip my toe more into the bourbon waters. I've always enjoyed a good old-fashioned, but hadn't drunk a lot of straight whiskey. Made a list of these to keep on my phone for future shopping LOL! The first one I have actually picked up is the Elijah Craig Small Batch. We are fortunate enough in our area to have one of the Costco liquor stores, and it's only 24 bucks there! Looking forward to picking up something else on the list and pitting it against the EC, which I've enjoyed very much so far. Thanks again dude, keep up the good work. Great Channel!
Great video. A couple weeks ago i did a blond flight of Weller SR, Weller 107, and Rebel Yell 100. Even though Weller 107 won, the difference between the three was little enough that I won't spend $50 on it again. Rebel Yell for price to quality win!
Only place around near me for finding Buffalo Trace is Walmart for $25. Never can find it anywhere else in places like Total Wine and Fryar Tucks. Absolutely love. My favorite all-around bourbon. Eagle Rare would easily be up there too but it's SO HARD to find.
Before seeing it entirely, I'd say (from bottom up): Early Times BIB, WT 101, Elijah Craig store picks, Knob Creek SB, Jack Daniels SB/BP, and ECBP for being a 12 year bourbon!
@@matthewgubanich6395 and isn't it funny that pulled pork and brisket sandwiches are sometimes called barbecue? The meats are smoked. Just the sauce gives it the label.
Echoing what others have said - great video - short, concise, to the point, and including so many available and affordable favorites. Based largely on your videos, I tried the Russel's Single Barrel, and it has become one of my absolute favorites. I put it right up there with my other favorite: 1920.
Cheers! You guys have so many great bourbons stateside; while I can't find everything on your list in my country, I'm glad I can find some of the staples like Evan Williams Bottled in Bond and Wild Turkey 101.
Great list! Here are my favorites at the different price tiers: 1) Old Grandad 114 ($22.99) 2) Wild Turkey Rare Breed ($38.99) I prefer this one over Russell's Single, and it's cheaper. 3) Old Forester 1920 ($47.99) These are the prices I get them at!
I totally agree with you on the Knob Creek Single Barrel. I consider it only a hair behind Bookers AT OVER HALF THE PRICE!! It's getting harder to find tho... I also LOVE Rare Breed.
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As someone just getting into bourbon, I really appreciate videos like this. Quick, informational, and to the point, with no goofy gimmicks or other BS I’ve seen on other channels. Good stuff, thank you.
Dude this was awesome. Tons of info, quick, and well put together. Really appreciate you putting this out there!
Thanks Taylor! Worked hard on this one.
I agree - this is a great video! Nice to see people focusing on this part of the bourbon market. And the Knob Creek 9 year is definitely back!
Great list! You covered some of my favorite ones. I'm tired of playing the allocation game and want to increasingly reward distillers and retailers who always have good bourbons in stock at fair market prices.
Great point. I think there is alot of truth to that and there are so many good options out there. Thats why I wanted to make the video. Im tired of seeing people chase Blantons when its not nearly the best bourbon not on the shelf. Cheers.
@@TheMashandDrum Great review! I'm looking at Russel's reserve single barrel (I've never had single barrel), but is the Rare Breed more complex?
@@johnnyjustice9988 I actually did a head to head a while back...check it. out here.... th-cam.com/video/CvMBtbXDm9Y/w-d-xo.html
@@TheMashandDrum Thanks for the review: I purchased both the rare Breed and RR Single Barrel! I've also found EC Barrel Proof 12 yr for $53.00, but as a relative newbie (years of Buffalo Trace 7 year generic brand "Kelsey Creek" at 45%), I wonder if it'd be too strong......?
@@johnnyjustice9988 for 53 dollars snag that EC Barrel Proof up! It's around 70 dollars in my part of the country and it still worth it!
Evan Williams White Label (bottled in bond)
That's the start and end of the list. Smooth, 100 proof, great taste, and ridiculously affordable.
Mad respect for you having it at the start of the list. 👍🏻🙌🏻🥃
Joshua Baca I live in Texas and it's at every liquor store around the DFW metroplex. 🤷♂️🥃🥃🥃
@@joshuabaca6257 it is here in Chattanooga...
Chad Miller agree ! I have bragged on EWWLBinB for some time. A GREAT DELICIOUS VALUE!
I recently discovered this bourbon. I agree.
@@YaMuthaSmellz I think we need to stop talking about it, especially publicly. 😂🤷♂️🥃🥃🥃🥃🥃
Just found this channel and I love it. This guy has the knowledge to make high end recommendations but lacks snobbery and has no problem extolling the virtues of affordable products
Thanks for the great list. I just bought 4 bourbons from your list and spent under 100 bucks. With that savings i splurged and bought a Laprhoaig 10 Cask Strength.
Phenomenal episode. This is the go to video on TH-cam for someone starting into whiskey and doesnt know where to start.
I'm gonna need a Rye version of this video.
You will get nothing of the sort, pilgrim!
"I hope I am giving you all enough options" as Jason has 24 bourbons sitting right in front of him😂🤣 Just have to say I know how much work goes into the B roll and extra images and overlays you do, well worth the effort and it shows. Amazing episode brother!
Completely agree on the Russell’s reserve, wild turkey and Elijah Craig. Great value!
This was a terrific summary. I started with basic Scotch, JWB and some tonic and have moved up to single malt scotch and water and bourbon and ice or old fashions. I always live to find the value purchase as well as keeping an eye out for a special treat. From you and people like Ralf’s I have recently been enjoying Old Forester 1920, 101, Elijah Craig the basic one, 1792, and in the malty world, Bunnahabain 12, Mortlach12, and searching for others including that Russell reserve and Arron 10. Cheers!
So glad I have several of these in my lineup, and none in the overhyped/over priced! I'm pretty new to bourbon, 3-4 years into drinking it haven't been taken yet.
Great selection. The Evan Williams single barrel reserve hands down the best. $24.00 a bottle but Drinks like 60-70$ bottle. Eagle Rare is a close second!
hands down the best bourbon video out there. you managed to list ALL of the top hitters, across websites and reviewers, of bourbons that are findable. this one will help a LOT of folks find great bourbon.
Excellent review, one of the best I’ve seen in years. Elijah Craig Barrel Proof is the best deal in bourbon, no doubt. However I must correct you on one aspect. If you are one of the lucky ones (like myself) to win the opportunity to purchase George T Stagg at retail prices during a BTAC raffle, the price is not $300-$400. Here in New Jersey, I paid $98 before tax on my 2017 Release. I also paid $112 for my 2019 William LaRue Weller during the most recent BTAC Release. Those high prices that you mentioned are secondary market, which is actually kinda low for GTS. I’ve seen an average price of between $600-$800.
Very informative!
Mash and Drum is best reviewer put of the five I know of.
Straightforward, serious, accurate reviews.
Not trying to be a comic.
Just reliable information.
Thank you sir!
I found my go to product at Four Roses one day when I took some guests on the”Bourbon Trail”. Try the least expensive one that had the yellow label at one time. It will even work with an ice cube and definitely anything mixed, but I tend to like lower proof bourbons
This video made me want to drink instead of sleep. Watching the next one earlier
On your and others recommendations I finally went out to try Old Grand Dad 114 and I have to say you're right it's an amazing bourbon! All of these are great choices and I have most of them in my collection already. The Old Ezera I'm going to have to try and find next... Cheers and thanks for another great video!
You do a great job on these informative videos. Well organized, right to the point, great visuals. This is what people need when they want quick info about things. Not a lot of jokes and nonsense like other channels. 👍👏
Good job, well done video and I agree with many of your selections. I was disappointed to see that McKenna 10 YO missed the cut. To me personally that is one of the best values in all of bourbon.
I just got started in Bourbon and this video would have saved me at least 2 to 3 k. I'm 3 months in and 103 bottles in with a Weller Fullproof, 2 EH Taylor single Barrel, 2 Small batch, 2 Bookers and a bunch of others that didn't even make your list. I have not even tried them yet and got back ups while I could, just in case I liked them.
This was a great video. I'm really enjoying watching your new ones. I love the history and info you provide. The latest Evans Hill Rye was great. I want to try Pikesville and Elijah Craig Rye. I have Rittenhouse (I have not opened) but not the others. Thank you for all you do. 🍻
The wife and I just picked up the ECBP 2019 edition for $98. It's on the high end here in Kansas. The best bourbon I've had this year so far was Garrison Brothers, out of Texas. I would have loved to see you talk about Willett Rye as we have it here for under $50 and it's one of the best ryes for that dollar amount. Well done indeed.
Within the last year or so, I switched from whiskey to bourbon. I think bourbon is smoother, and I really enjoy that. I have been trying different ones, but I knew nothing about any of them. I had no idea which ones are good to try. This video is excellent. Thank you so much for this video.
I was writing these as fast as I could. You always give us the the skinny on brands that I can afford. Thank you for your efforts. I still can’t do the nose thing so I depend on you.
I recently tried the Four Roses Small Batch Select because of your review. It was great, what warmed my heart even more was that I got it at my local Indiana Costco for 49.99...a great value.
Really like this guy. Packs a ton of information into his videos with no nonsense. I would always trust one of his recommendations. So many choices out there…it could get kind of expensive. haha
Outstanding review. You’ve provided a plethora of bourbons to seriously consider. I’ve tried many different bottles based on your reviews and have never been disappointed. No need for a bourbon drinker to spend over $100 for an allocated bottle, if you can find them, when you describe so many excellent choices that are readily available at “reasonable” prices. From a native “Buckeye” now living in Virginia, thanks for the great reviews.
Your value list is larger than my entire collection lol but glad to see about 2/3 of these on my shelf. You’re awesome at what you do. Keep up the great content!
I am just getting into to the bourbon experience.
This video definitely will help me with my future purchases, the last thing I want is to gamble on a brand of bourbon I know nothing about.
Almost all of the bourbons in this video are well within my budget, and that's great to know, I will eventually have all them.
Absolutely the best place to get great info and honest evaluations about bourbon. So appreciated by someone just getting into bourbon and building a “treasure chest”….cheers !
Hands down best list like this I have seen. I know and can get every one of the whiskeys on this list. Even the honorable mentions were spot on that they may be great values but they are difficult to acquire. A majority of these lists have whiskeys that I’ve only seen in their video.
Glad you enjoyed it. Cheers!
I've had about half of the bourbons on this list and think your list is excellent. The Knob Creek 15yr. 120 proof is outstanding, but for the price/value, the Evan Williams BIB or OGD 114 should be tops on anyone's list
Wolf6151 Evan Williams black label is a great value and a good bourbon also.
Bought the OGD 114 and will buy more...good stuff
Completely agree with you about the Old Forester 1920. I bought it at Costco as a double pack with the basic Old Forester, which I didn't really care for. The 1920, however, is my favorite bourbon I've tasted to date. Soo good!!!
Russell’s Reserve single barrel is DELICIOUS. It has that wild turkey warehouse flavor that is so great, and in such a better bourbon.
For me it’s worth it to spend around the 40-50 range for value, the taste goes up significantly without having to go into the 100 dollar range
Rare Breed is my #1 all around favorite bourbon considering all factors - quality, availability , price , proof etc .. it just can’t be beat in my mind. WT101 has become my favorite budget pour too.
With that said, Rare Breed has been tougher to find in cbus this past month, which has me kind of worried.
same? try russel’s reserve single barrel, that one is better imo,
100% agree with every pic. Evan William's BIB is my favorite budget bourbon and I always keep a 1.75 L on hand
Always nice to see the OF 1920 getting it's deserved love! Also - respect to Wild Turkey Rare Breed - probably my favorite under 50.00 best! Truly robust and yet very sippy
Pretty much just listed most popular bourbons of each price range but great info and flow! Excellent video! !
I watch these budget bourbon videos frequently this is definitely one of the best put together videos for selection and editing for quick and good information. Easily one of my
Favorite whiskey channels. Great work!
Well played sir! I would add the Four Roses Single Barrel.
it was on his stand I was certain it was gonna make the list, must have just missed it!
I'm a huge Four Roses fan, but I dunno. It's $50 in my area, and I just don't find it as strong an offering as other Bourbons in that range. Honestly, last time I had them side-by-side I preferred Roses' $30 classic Small Batch (which I consider a fairly good value). For my experience with single barrel, I'd rather Eagle Rare or Buffalo Trace even skipping the price.
Now don't get me wrong, Four Roses makes for the most incredible blackberry and rosemary Old Fashioned, and single-barrel IS better for that... but who wants to pour from a $50 bottle for a mixed drink, unless they just don't like drinking that particular bottle neat?
Yep. I try out a lot of bourbons but I keep coming back to Four Roses Single Barrel.
Yes agreed. I actually preferred the single barrel to small batch select (NC is an ABC state and single barrel is $43 here and small batch select is $59)
Four roses hands down is the best of the four roses in my opinion. Its 39.99 at total wine and more, Fyi. It's fun to see what everyone likes even though we all have different palates . Cheers.
Great job on this review!! A lot on my bar and several on my radar for coming picks. You brought up some that have missed my radar and now I have to add them to it. This is an excellent opportunity for those wanting to get deeper into bourbon to branch out from the regular stuff.
I've been preaching Larceny as great value and I was glad that you agreed
Old Ezra is my favorite all rounder. Bought a case of it
FYI Elijah Craig Small Batch is 8-12 year old blending, not 4-6 years as stated. Great rundown and list in every category though, thank you!
Excellent list, and lots of details!
Might I suggest a couple to try out for a future list?:
I just paid $33 for Henry McKenna 10 year single barrel bottled-in-bond KSBW. Similar to Old Forrester 1920, but lower proof, and more rounded flavor: a bit more caramel and a bit less chocolate than 1920, but without the flat spot in the flavor profile. And half the price!
I paid $39 for Blue Note Crossroads, a NAS SBW finished with toasted French Oak, at 100 proof, from Memphis, whose high rye (60/36/4) mashbill source isn’t stated, but looks like it may be Dickel like with Blue Note’s 9, 10, and 17 yr bourbons (the entry level 93 proof Juke Joint $26 is marked as KSBW). Toasted oak & gentle tannins arrive, and quickly balance with sweetness, crème brûlée, pecan praline, Excellent list, and lots of details.
Might I suggest a couple to try out for a future list?:
I just paid $33 for Henry McKenna 10 year single barrel bottled-in-bond KSBW. Similar to Old Forrester 1920, but lower proof, and more rounded flavor: a bit more caramel and a bit less chocolate than 1920, but without the flat spot in the flavor profile. And half the price!
I paid $39 for Blue Note Crossroads, a NAS SBW finished with toasted French Oak, at 100 proof, from Memphis, whose high rye (60/36/4) mashbill source isn’t stated, but looks like it may be Dickel like with Blue Note’s 9, 10, and 17 yr bourbons (the entry level 93 proof Juke Joint $26 is marked as KSBW). Toasted oak & gentle tannins arrive, and quickly balance with sweetness, crème brûlée, pecan praline, a suggestion of berries, and a dignified cinnamon note in the finish.
Cheers!🥃
I am extremely fortunate to be able to buy Wild Turkey 101 at $16.99 any time of the year. Punches well above its weight.
Can't help but sharing this every chance I get, but I want people to take advantage & not over pay (if you are buying it anyway). In 2024 got WT 101 1.75L $32.50 total w taxes, etc., ($29.99 shelf/web price). EW BiB 1.75L $27.99. EW 86P 1.75L $16-18. Look around when you travel, call, check websites. You should be able to find it at that price or less & when you do, negotiate a price for a case or more and save an extra $1-3 per bottle. Plus have a better chance of getting a rare store pick (like OF SiB Barrel Proof) or an allocated bottle.
Excellent! Anybody new to Whiskey, you have no idea how much time & $$ you just saved, if you watched & follow the advise here. In 17+m, you just learned what would have cost you 100s of hours of research & $1000s wasted buying bad whiskey or over paying for good/Ok whiskey..
So, now the best value in whiskey is the information provided here!! The returns are infinite, since it was free to watch.
I've only been drinking bourbon for a little over a year and have already tried about 80% of your list. I may be obsessed lol.
Great video, Jason....hard to argue with any of your picks. One that I like and would add flies so far under the radar I would have been shocked if you had mentioned it, and that's Very Old Barton 100 proof. I can find this for around $15 or $16, and personally I like it better than 1792 Small Batch, which goes for $10-$12 more. It's become my cheap go-to for something I can finish off the bottle and not feel bad about having to buy another.
Thats a GREAT callout! I cant get it where I am and wish I could but one that I could absolutely have on this list.
VOB BIB 6 yr was probably the best values out there. Along with Heaven Hill 6 yr BIB, but they did away with it for a year. Then they brought is back as a 7 yr BIB in a different bottle with an MSRP over 2-3 times what it use to sell for. I found JW Dant BIB in GA a few years ago and that is another good one at $27 for 1.75L. I use to like EW BIB, but its got too much corn come through it these days. They need to add some rye to it.
A lot of my go to bourbons on this list. Namely Wild Turkey 101, Four Roses, Buffalo Trace, Eagle Rare. and Knob Creek. But no Angel's Envy? I love this bottle! for around 50 dollars (in my market), it is fantastic and different! I would pay ~$100 for what this delivers. But don't tell that to the distillery! I like paying what I pay now. ALWAYS have a bottle of Angel's Envy around.
It's funny how time changes things.. 10 years ago my favorite value was Weller Antique 107 for $25-$30. Now it's $150-$200 in secondary markets and it's super hard to find.
Man, your film is on top of my bourbons films, finally I found someone included Ezra Brooks as a fine bourbon. Cheers 👍
Great video. It looks as if a lot of the ones you mention early in the video might be hard to find in New England. Kind of surprised Bulleit is not on the list. That is my favorite value bourbon.
Really appreciate this video. No waffle, straight to the point. Good stuff.
As always the best reviews of Bourbon on TH-cam keep it up brother
I'm late to the party with this video, and just really getting into bourbon, so this video was exceedingly useful. Glad I found your channel!
Great list, Wild Turkey 101 is my favorite value pour. I would of had more Four Roses and less BF and BT.
Coopers Craft is my #1 pound for pound. Awesome options among the array of price ranges. Thanks again sir!
Great video! So many of my favorites here. I enjoy the rarer unicorn bottles when I can get them at retail, but this is where it's at. Very well done, Jason.
While I don't agree with all your selections (everyone's palette and tastes are different), it was definitely educational and gives me a few things to keep an eye out for and shake up my usual selections.
Great video. Its kind of a drive down memory lane. I suggest a followup video with what you think are the best value bourbons now.
Yow! The birddog and I watched this, and I said, “I am writing that down!” My go-to guzzler nowadays is Ezra Brooks Bourbon; I can usually get 1.75 liters for $20.49 plus tax here in Cocoa Beach, Florida. Ain’t nothin’ wrong with that! I have -some- appreciation for other whiskeys and other spirits, beer, and wine, but I have quite a bit in common with “Jack” (Thomas Haden Church) in the movie “Sideways”, who says, “Tastes pretty good to me!” Ezra Brooks helps me leave the birddog’s fancy stuff be when all I really want to do is “just stay here and drink,” like Merle Haggard said …
Ezra Brooks is a great value bourbon as well. Good call out. Nothing wrong with that at all buddy.
Fantastic! Lots of value coming out of Heaven Hill. Love Russell's Reserve and the Knob Creek single barrels - always on the lookout for those. Well done.
Excellent video with tons of great options. Also, the only whiskey review video I've seen that actually recommends a regular line Jim Beam product. No snobs allowed - some people like Beam!
Everything about elijah craig is wonderful
Much excellent information here...I totally concur with your assessment of the Elijah Craig products, currently working on a bottle of Barrel Strength (127 proof) that's quite good. I'd be interested to hear your take on Maker's Mark Private Select, basically a more finished 46 as it was described to me at my favorite liquor store, and on Henry McKenna 10 Year Old Single Barrel. I discovered it several years ago while touring the Bourbon Heritage Center at Heaven Hill, and really liked it. At the time I couldn't find anybody who seemed to know much about it, although my liquor store guys spoke very well of it. The price then was under 30 bucks, but since it won some prestigious awards a few years ago, the price has gone up significantly. Still affordable, but not available readily. Thanks again for another great video!
Four Roses Small Batch Select is my current favorite daily drinker.
This video was amazing. I have, and enjoy, the majority of this list. I will be sitting down to watch again so I can make a list of the ones I don't have. Looking forward to trying them as well!!
Yea, this is a nice breakdown for newbies like me developing their palette and trying to figure out they like w out dropping big bucks. On your recs, I bought the EC small batch and Buffalo Trace and liking them both very much. As a long time scotch guy I'm finding there's so much affordable bourbon in comparison and it's just as complex if not more. I do tend to favor less sweet and more smoke so if you or anyone has any recs I'm all ears. thanks again!
Nailed it. OGD 114, WT101, Evan WIlliams White Label and Single Barrel all bang for the buck. Will have to try Rare Breed thanks to this review and all the comments! Here in Columbus, Ohio good luck finding Eagle Rare or Buffalo Trace anymore though.
Enjoyed this review. I just got the EC Barrel Proof B520 at the Indianapolis Costco for 52.99...what a deal.
JASON, I agree with 70% Of your picks as I have tasted or owned many of them. Much better choices than many of the overpriced allocated bottles people throw money at in the aftermarket. Got to love RUSSELL'S, Eagle Rare, and Rare Breed for value. BTW , where is the Woodford?
BTW, Evan Williams 9 year is the real steal
I grew up in KY (blood kin to Jim Beam.) When I lived in PA I had a friend who made me always bring him Rebel Yell whenever I went home to visit family.
I completely agree with your take on OGD114. I've been saying the same for several years. It's an often overlooked bourbon that eventually will get noticed and the Blanton's mania will overtake it. For 114 proof it doesn't drink like it. ECBP is also widely available near me and I've been picking up every release for 6 years or so and still have a bottle of c917 hanging out.
Good video, exelennt picks. I really agree on the Jim Beam distillers cut. It's still on the shelf of my Total Wine for $18 and especially since Knob Creek lost it's 9yr age statment that makes it an outstanding value. Cheers
No Woodford Reserve, wow! Excellent video, really informative. Love Elijah Craig and think Larceny is good for the money as well good calls. You right about WT101 I think our childhood memories scare us away. Lol
Probably one of my favorite whiskey videos yet, dude (you or any other whiskeytuber). Cost/value is always a consideration for me. I like that you broke this up into price ranges, because as you mentioned, value is subjective and it's easy to forget that everyone is in a different financial situation at any given time.
I've bought probably 45+ bottles in the last 3 years and have yet to pay anywhere close to 100+ for any of them. I wanted to get a handle on what good value bottles were out there for your 'average joe' that can't shell out a lot for a bottle. I also think it depends on how often you drink...$100 per bottle is a lot easier if you only have a pour a week vs. 4-5 a week, for example. Either way, this is a solid list and I hope that a lot or all of the ones on this list stay relatively affordable for us! Cheers.
I enjoyed this video! I wish you had provided the list so that I didn't have to play and pause. Great information to take with when shopping for bourbon. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!
Oh, and thanks for showing the closeups of the bottle, that is so helpful!
Four Roses SB and Woodford Reserve I think are also amazing values. Then again, in my area they are around $30 and $35, which is a great value. But I understand they are often 5-10 bucks more than that in most places.
I love Woodford reserve, it's 33 bucks in Omaha. The four roses is 45 been wanting to give that a try.
@@kennethhulsebus7194 You can get Four Roses SB for $26 at Sam's in Omaha
Good suggestion on the old forester signature...nice
Really enjoyed watching this. (like all your videos) For me I find the Old Forester 100 to be hard to beat for $25.00. After watching this I went to Total Wine and picked up a bottle of Beam Distillers Cut ($18.99) which you mentioned in the video so it will fun to try something new. Keep up the great work!
Thanks man, this video is fantastic! I'm more of a scotch man, but trying to dip my toe more into the bourbon waters. I've always enjoyed a good old-fashioned, but hadn't drunk a lot of straight whiskey. Made a list of these to keep on my phone for future shopping LOL! The first one I have actually picked up is the Elijah Craig Small Batch. We are fortunate enough in our area to have one of the Costco liquor stores, and it's only 24 bucks there! Looking forward to picking up something else on the list and pitting it against the EC, which I've enjoyed very much so far. Thanks again dude, keep up the good work. Great Channel!
One of the best Bourbons reviewers on TH-cam.🥃🥃🥃
Great video. A couple weeks ago i did a blond flight of Weller SR, Weller 107, and Rebel Yell 100. Even though Weller 107 won, the difference between the three was little enough that I won't spend $50 on it again. Rebel Yell for price to quality win!
Such a great budget wheater. I like it more than Larceny a bit. Cheers!
Try to find Rebel Yell 10 yr, it's even better.
@@TheMashandDrum the Larceny BP is where its at now. I told them 4 years ago they needed to add it to their line-up, I guess they listened. LOL
@@leeniemann7955 Well if they did we all thank you! LOL. Cheers buddy!
Preach it, brother! The bible for value in bourbon right here!
Only place around near me for finding Buffalo Trace is Walmart for $25. Never can find it anywhere else in places like Total Wine and Fryar Tucks. Absolutely love. My favorite all-around bourbon. Eagle Rare would easily be up there too but it's SO HARD to find.
Really helpful. Happy that I already have some of these. Even happier that I know what to seek out next. Thanks for doing this.
Before seeing it entirely, I'd say (from bottom up): Early Times BIB, WT 101, Elijah Craig store picks, Knob Creek SB, Jack Daniels SB/BP, and ECBP for being a 12 year bourbon!
Jack Daniels is not bourbon
@@matthewgubanich6395 and isn't it funny that pulled pork and brisket sandwiches are sometimes called barbecue? The meats are smoked. Just the sauce gives it the label.
Woodford Reserve Double Oak is my fave, but I buy Elijah Craig Small Batch for my daily drinker
Dessert in a glass.
Agreed. Add Rare Breed & OF1920 and I can get by on those 4.
Echoing what others have said - great video - short, concise, to the point, and including so many available and affordable favorites. Based largely on your videos, I tried the Russel's Single Barrel, and it has become one of my absolute favorites. I put it right up there with my other favorite: 1920.
Thank you. Right to the point. Wonderful presentation for us beginners. I singed up!
THANK YOU for this list! I purchased one of the bourbons you discussed and LOVE it!
I thoroughly enjoyed this review. EW, my all time fave continues to punch above its weight class....Cheers !!!!!
Excellent list, we get most of your 30-40 for well under$30 here in Louisville Kentucky. I rarely go over $25.
Cheers! You guys have so many great bourbons stateside; while I can't find everything on your list in my country, I'm glad I can find some of the staples like Evan Williams Bottled in Bond and Wild Turkey 101.
I know they don’t make them anymore, but in the Philippines they’re still selling Elijah Craig 12 for $44. That’s value for me!
Great list! Here are my favorites at the different price tiers:
1) Old Grandad 114 ($22.99)
2) Wild Turkey Rare Breed ($38.99) I prefer this one over Russell's Single, and it's cheaper.
3) Old Forester 1920 ($47.99)
These are the prices I get them at!
Excellent picks- a lot to choose from when one or some aren’t there- thanks!
I totally agree with you on the Knob Creek Single Barrel. I consider it only a hair behind Bookers AT OVER HALF THE PRICE!! It's getting harder to find tho... I also LOVE Rare Breed.
Thank you for this it absolutely expands my options when I go in the store.