It's also possible you're not in the US. Only two of these 8 I've seen here in Aus is Buffalo Trace and Wild Turkey, though it's possible I haven't been looking that hard being more of an Irish whisky guy myself.
@@stewartlynton9942 I also prefer Irish whiskey and Scotch over bourbon and I’m from the states. I really want to find a bourbon I like but they just seem inferior.
Couldn’t agree more. Super over rated! I made sure to subscribe and hit the bell so I never miss an opportunity to watch the entire video, comment how much I hated it, then give a thumbs up. I know what you’re thinking “Why a thumbs up?” Well that way more people will see it and then we can all comment about how his whiskey preferences don’t reflect our tastes.
Great show as always! My 5 beginner bottles: 1)Evan Williams Black at 86; 2)Old Grandad BiB 100; 3)Elijah Craig Small Batch at 94; 4)Wild Turkey101; 5)Balcones Texas Pot Still at 92. All under $30
Ok, I keep seeing these 100 proof bourbons as a recommendation but I don’t get it. If it’s for a beginner, why would you have them try out a higher proof instead of a 80-low 90’s for their first time?
I started my journey because of you TJ about 3 months ago . I have Old Elk KSBW , Four Roses Single barrel , Larceny small batch , buffalo trace , eagle rare 10 year already . I’m loving differences in taste . And I appreciate your knowledge .
Perfect list for beginners, with one exception. You don't need Buffalo Trace and Benchmark (just Buffalo Trace), but a beginner should also try a wheated bourbon like Maker's Mark. I don't liked wheated bourbons myself, but I think each new bourbon drinker needs to make that decision for themselves.
No. Buffalo Trace distillery HAS a wheated mashbill, but their main two mashbills (#1 & 2) contain rye and not wheat. Pappy Van Winkle and Weller are examples of Buffalo Trace's wheated bourbon. Buffalo Trace, Blanton's, and Eagle Rare are examples of their rye mashbills.
Actually, I'd get rid of both of these and pick up Early Times BiB. It is cheaper and better than BT. In addition, the Benchmark Small Batch smells good, taste ok up front, but has absolutely nothing at the end. Very disappointing.
Brewzle is the best! I don’t like bourbon, but I enjoy every live show and stop what I’m doing to tune in. By far my favorite TH-camr! Jill is funny as well!
Agree with you about Evan Williams;I live in a bourbon -deprived state but I have a liquor store owner who is really helpful.great stuff, keep up the good work
Just finished off my bottle of Old Forester 86 tonight - you are right, it is a very easy drinker. May have to get a replacement. Old Granddad is also a very easy drinker and not expensive...
Very recently tried my first bourbon, which was standard Four Roses. Read some good stuff online and my local store had it. You make them look so good on this channel, so I had to try. It was great, and I am excited to try more options that I see here. Appreciate the videos and high production quality.
The standard version of Four Roses is delightful. I would take it over Bulleit, Buffalo Trace, Benchmark, it might be on the same level for me as Maker's Mark and Jim Beam double oak.
@@SwapBlogRU I like the Four Roses yellow label especially for the price but placing it above Bulleit and even more so Buffalo Trace is a bold statement. One Four Roses is weak at 80 proof but for the price I would take it over their 90 proof small batch. Small batch doesn't have much flavor but the 100 proof single barrel is really good as is the 102 proof small batch select.
Glad I found you! I'm a big fan of both Four Roses and Buffalo Trace. I'll have to try the rest some time. I've been mostly focusing on the Texas bourbons, such as Balcones, Still Austin, and Ranger Creek. I'm finding the climate here helps in the aging process. There's always something new.
I'm still considering myself a beginner (4 years drinking bourbon, 2 of those really trying different bottles). I guessed BT, ER, FRSB, and EW just from the thumbnail. All great bottles and I was happy to see WT 101 make an appearance. Started on EW, then went to WT before moving to 101. After watching this I realize I need to go get a 101 and EW for old times sake!
Love that whole list, I'd probably swap out the OF 86 for their 100 proof (or mentioned it as a 9th bottle) to add another higher proof pour to the list. It's a fraction more in price and it's such a great bottle for sipping neat or making an Old Fashioned with. The rest of the list is right on the money in my opinion. I'd also add that if you ever see 1792 Small Batch, grab that. It's a little rarer these days, but such a great bottle for the price, same with Early Times.
Strangely I started with Weller Special reserve. I got lucky to find a bottle near me. Since it wasn't available very often, but our shelves are stocked with Buffalo Trace. The BT was as good as the weller special reserve in my mind. I didn't know much about the McKenna 10 yr until I saw it on the shelf one day and bought it. Didn't know why this store had it on the shelf as now I realize I was lucky to find it. This set me on a BIB journey (Evan Williams is now my daily driver). Thanks TJ for these videos.
Really love your videos, great content, entertaining. Been a singlemalt drinker for the last 25y but after seeing your videos I got intriged to try some bourbons, tried the obvious like Jack Daniels, Jim Beam etc but after this video I order my self a Elijah Craig small batch, not so much bourbon on the shelf here in Sweden.
I'm from the UK and I tried Old Forester for the first time this Christmas and loved it. Four Roses is very nice too. Bullet is another nice one for me. Eagle Rare was on the shelf but the bottle kind of put me off but I'll try it next time for sure now 🥃🥃
Thanks for the list its hard to choose sometimes and i bet loads of people mispicked the wrong one and never tried again these beginner lists are really helpful
(For context, I’ve only drank something with 34% proof and plan on getting Maker’s Mark as a first bourbon. So this is actually a question instead of accusatory). Isn’t it kinda high for a beginner? I know there’s stuff like 114, 116, and 124 proof bourbon but for a beginner wouldn’t you think 100 proof is still a bit much? Especially since beginners are people that typically have only had beers, cocktails, and shots (which don’t count since they aren’t actually trying to taste the whiskey).
Solid list, TJ! I definitely agree with most. If I had a buddy ask me for a recommend, who wasn't into spirits at all and not used to the proof, I'd give him a bottle of the Old Forester 86. I agree about Old Forester, I've loved about every bottle I've had from them, with the 1920 and 1910 being my favorites. But keeping it very affordable and easy to find, the OF86 is the way to start. Let them come up slowly to the proof and once they're ready to stretch their legs into higher proofs, I'd slide them over a bottle of the Wild Turkey 101. Thats a bottle that punches way above it's weight. Dollar for dollar it's very hard to beat.
I am a beginner with bourbon. Before watching this video, Buffalo Trace (my favorite) was my starter so I feel like I did something right. I eventually ventured into the Evan Williams B.I.B (also a favorite). I've had some others, some good, some not so good. On these recommendations, I will try the Eagle Rare, Elijah Craig and Wild Turkey 101. Thanks for your expertise.
So my brother is a big woodford guy and got me into trying whiskeys/bourbons. So far four roses single barrel and oddly michters small batch have been two of my favorites!
I always see on many lists Buffalo trace , Evan Williams BIB & Wild Turkey 101 and it's soothing to know they're available here in my country , Philippines
I picked up my first bottle of Burbon ever last night. I bought a bottle of Maker's Mark. I really enjoyed it neat. As well as, with a glass of orange juice. Just a splash of Burbon with OJ.
For the first time in my life, I have eight bottles of bourbon in my cabinet: Evan William BiB 100, Wild Turkey 101, Old Forester 86, Old Forrester 100, Elijah Craig Small Batch 94, Four Roses Small Batch 90, Still Austin Straight Bourbon 94, and Frey Ranch Single Barrel Barrel Strength at 131.54 proof! Big fan of the Old Forrester 100 and Four Roses Small Batch 90. WT101 will be a staple. Still Austin Texas straight bourbon is very tasty and definitely feels different than the Kentucky bourbons (and worth it at $40). I am relatively new to good bourbon, but the Frey Ranch Barrel Strength is on another level. Really good. At $99.99, it cost as much as my first 4 or 5 combined, so I'll savor that one for a while. Looking forward to trying a few more from the Old Forester line and a couple from Knobs Creek, and just exploring the $30 - $40 range.
If you enjoy Beam whiskeys and are interested in a new $100 bourbon, you really can't go wrong with Booker's. They released 4 unique batches in 2023 and the 2023-01 and 2023-04 batches in particular are dee-licious, I highly recommend them. I've also heard good things about the 2023-03 batch but I haven't had a chance to try it, or the 2023-02 batch (which I've heard was actually a bit underwhelming). They clock in within a few proof points of 126 proof, so they definitely pack a punch. Widow Jane 13 Year is also really, really good, and it comes in at a much more friendly 92 proof, it's not as thick and oily as Booker's but I greatly enjoyed the flavor profile, and it also doesn't give you chemical burns in your throat like these high-proof bourbons do, which is nice.
I was finally able to grab a bottle of Eagle Rare this past weekend while visiting the in-laws in GA. Haven't had a chance to open it up yet, but I'm really looking forward to it.
I totally enjoy the Buffalo Trace. Yes it gets a bad rap sometimes but that is what i love about bourbon... its completely subjective. Additionally i wanted to high five you for the Eagle Rare. My absolute favorite bottle. Hard to find yes, pricey yes, keep for myself and not share with friends yes.
As a beginner, I’ve tried Wild turkey 101, buffalo Trace, and Four roses Small batch. All wonderful! I’ve also had a few scotch. Dalmore 12, red breast 12. All amazing
Elijah Craig small batch is a must have in the shelf for me makes a great old fashioned. Been trying to find the toasted barrel bottle haven’t had luck. I’ve loved every double oaked bottle I’ve tried. Old Forester 1910 is my favorite bourbon
I am a beginner with Bergen and doing videos. I’ve been awesome! Not only entertaining but informative. The first bottle I actually like is it a simple four roses. I am nor looking for a four roses single barrel. I just don’t see a lot of variation here in Utah with full state run liquor stores
that is a great list. I haven't had benchmark even though available in my area or the evan williams BIB. SO will have to grab a bottle and try. I would maybe add Woodford Doubled Oak has a little sweetness for newbs. Glad you had Eagle Rare on list, I was thinking that would also be a great one. thanks for sharing. cheers.
Hands-down the best starter bourbon is WT101. Just wish I`d discovered it at the start of my bourbon journey! It`s got great flavour & the price is exceptional for the quality. Nice vid man, thanks.
Good list. Personally I'd ditch the 2 extra BuffTrace's and swap in Basil Hayden and Bulleit. Then add Maker's and one more to make it a Top 10 Starter Pack
Basil Hayden's is really overpriced imo for what you get. I'm a nerd for history so I definitely appreciate that it's such a historic brand but you can get such better bourbons for what they charge
@@CountryTortoiseSame here I don't see the appeal for Maker's. I'm not even a Knob Creek fan but for me it's far superior to Maker's Mark. It's annoying that those are basically the only 2 Kentucky straight bourbons that you see at franchise restaurants like Outback, etc.
Randomly stumbled into Publix liquor and found a bottle of Buffalo trace. Was super happy to get it for 29 bucks and try as a new guy to all drinking. Thanks for the Rec!
Evan Williams Bottled in Bond. IMO, by far the best bang for your buck. All around great in all categories of flavor, potency, availability and price. Drink ot neat or mix it, you can't lose.
Bought the turkey 101 a week ago god its good even better with Dr Pepper mixed. Picked up bottle in bond, 1783, and elijah craig small batch today gonna try them after work (thanks to Brewzle my cooler is now full of whiskey instead of a 30 rack of busch and a handle of jack 😂)
I’m enjoying Elijah Craig small batch while watching. I’m going through my journey so far I’ve had: -Woodford Double Oak (one of my favorites) -Blanton’s (very good, overpriced) -Russel Reserve private barrel collection (my least favorite) -Buffalo Trace (loved it) -JD Single Barrel Barrel Proof (loved it) -Knob Creek Single Barrel (loved it) -Larceny Barrel Proof B523 Batch ( one of my favorites so far)
Man you hit em all!! Great selection. My only addition, would be for folks new to the scene, to hit up a tasting of local whiskey producers, and see if there are any up and comers that really deliver value and unique taste. Just look at Old Elk, and Wyoming Whiskey double cask. Bringing it strong for a reasonable price
I only just got into buying new whiskies and the wild turkey 101 is first one I got to get away from the Jamison I usually get. Its good. drinking it while i watch this. Next weekend I will try an other
I would say for classic bourbons this is pretty spot on for beginners especially those in AL that this is spot on and yes 101 is the best bourbon for the money on the market
I've always prefered the 100 proof and love, love the knob creek 9 year. Cheap at Sam's club. But I always make sure I have Four Roses single barrel 100 proof, and Heaven Hill bottled and bond on hand. My go to.
Thanks for all you do for us TJ , really enjoy your channel also thanks for turning me onto 4 roses single barrel ! Was passing through Bama working on the FL hurricane and would have liked to buy you a bourbon my friend.
Definitely a bourbon beginner, ive had the buffalo trace, the evan williams BIB, the wild turkey 101, the elijah craig and the four roses so i think I'm doing alright!
Still more of a beginner. Got more into bourbon about 1-2 years ago and to this day my favorite is still almost anything four roses puts out. Also I do know THAT guy who says buffalo trace is bad but is obsessed with woodford. Hit the nail on the head there 😂
I started my journey by poking around the bottom shelf (EW Black, OF86, WT) then I finally got around to the *WT101*. Without having much experience, this bourbon spoke to me like "you are home" and I knew this is what bourbon should taste like: Complex, balanced, and a nice finish. It has become my standard for comparing other $20-25 bottles. BTW, I picked up an EW BiB at WalMart today (in Arizona) for $16!!! I like it a lot, but the WT101 still beats it for overall flavor experience! 😁👍Cheers, all!!
Tried the bonded Evan Williams and I love it! I'm a G&T guy no more! Thinking I'll give that Wild Turkey 101 a shot next. Have ya tried anything from New Riff? They've got a particular dedication to making bonded whiskey and I find it real intriguing.
I’ve just recently got interested in whisky and I think I messed up accidentally starting at the top. Crown Royal 18 year… buddy of mine shared some with me and man it’s so freaking good but it’s about $150 a bottle around here lol by far the best out of the very few whisky and bourbons I’ve tried. Want to try more and now I have a good list to start with!!! Thanks TJ!
My coworker gave me a bottle of beam devils cut fir my birthday. Wasnt huge on the other whiskies I had tried (makers and jack) but this one was really good. I guess that was my gateway because now im getting into to whiskey lol.
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My first bourbon that i got was a willet Kentucky Straight Bourbon, was really good!
RTR sir!
Tj kills me “you can’t find old forester 86 then you’re in a weird state and you gotta move” lol I love it!
It's also possible you're not in the US. Only two of these 8 I've seen here in Aus is Buffalo Trace and Wild Turkey, though it's possible I haven't been looking that hard being more of an Irish whisky guy myself.
@@stewartlynton9942 I also prefer Irish whiskey and Scotch over bourbon and I’m from the states. I really want to find a bourbon I like but they just seem inferior.
Or "tryin to make my whiskey addiction a tax deduction"
Love it canada
I'm a beginner and I'm loving that Buffalo Trace.
Same here, Weller is AMAZING.
One of the most underrated whiskey channels!
My goal is to be the most over-rated whiskey channel.. wait, that's not right.
Couldn’t agree more. Super over rated! I made sure to subscribe and hit the bell so I never miss an opportunity to watch the entire video, comment how much I hated it, then give a thumbs up.
I know what you’re thinking “Why a thumbs up?” Well that way more people will see it and then we can all comment about how his whiskey preferences don’t reflect our tastes.
love the shorts, too. Hilarious and knowledgeable.
584K subscribers.. not sure what it was a year ago to be underrated? this subscriber count is up there among the best..
love the channel!
Underrated is an understatement
Let’s just take a minute and appreciate that TJ took a shot out of all 8 bottles and was still standing!
That's a lil too easy lol
A true Alki 🤣🔥🔥🔥
You can tell around shot 7 his speech patterns changed
You can clearly tell he didn't take 8 shots. All he did was let the liquor touch his lips, if that
i was thinking the same thing. I would be down for the count
Great show as always! My 5 beginner bottles: 1)Evan Williams Black at 86; 2)Old Grandad BiB 100; 3)Elijah Craig Small Batch at 94; 4)Wild Turkey101; 5)Balcones Texas Pot Still at 92. All under $30
Ok, I keep seeing these 100 proof bourbons as a recommendation but I don’t get it. If it’s for a beginner, why would you have them try out a higher proof instead of a 80-low 90’s for their first time?
@@_Sloppyham You have a valid point. My background included eating hot, spicy foods, so the higher proofs were a natural fit.
I’ve got a woodford reserve double oak as my first bourbon I am trying it this Thursday before vacation I’m super excited!
Kinda strong for me but I'm still learning
I started my journey because of you TJ about 3 months ago . I have Old Elk KSBW , Four Roses Single barrel , Larceny small batch , buffalo trace , eagle rare 10 year already . I’m loving differences in taste . And I appreciate your knowledge .
Perfect list for beginners, with one exception. You don't need Buffalo Trace and Benchmark (just Buffalo Trace), but a beginner should also try a wheated bourbon like Maker's Mark. I don't liked wheated bourbons myself, but I think each new bourbon drinker needs to make that decision for themselves.
Buffalo Trace is a wheated bourbon.
No. Buffalo Trace distillery HAS a wheated mashbill, but their main two mashbills (#1 & 2) contain rye and not wheat. Pappy Van Winkle and Weller are examples of Buffalo Trace's wheated bourbon. Buffalo Trace, Blanton's, and Eagle Rare are examples of their rye mashbills.
Agreed. I don't like Maker's either, but also think every beginner should try it for themselves.
What do you recommend if you really like makers mark?
Actually, I'd get rid of both of these and pick up Early Times BiB. It is cheaper and better than BT. In addition, the Benchmark Small Batch smells good, taste ok up front, but has absolutely nothing at the end. Very disappointing.
Brewzle is the best! I don’t like bourbon, but I enjoy every live show and stop what I’m doing to tune in. By far my favorite TH-camr! Jill is funny as well!
Thanks Chuck!
Agree with you about Evan Williams;I live in a bourbon -deprived state but I have a liquor store owner who is really helpful.great stuff, keep up the good work
Just finished off my bottle of Old Forester 86 tonight - you are right, it is a very easy drinker. May have to get a replacement. Old Granddad is also a very easy drinker and not expensive...
I love the old grandad bonded. We cant get 114 here in New Zealand.😢😢😢 you guys are spoilt in the U.S. so many great bourbons and cheap! 🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲😁👊
Very recently tried my first bourbon, which was standard Four Roses. Read some good stuff online and my local store had it. You make them look so good on this channel, so I had to try.
It was great, and I am excited to try more options that I see here. Appreciate the videos and high production quality.
Definitely get the buffalo Trace! Wild turkey 101 as well!
Thanks Andrew and I'm glad you liked it!
The standard version of Four Roses is delightful. I would take it over Bulleit, Buffalo Trace, Benchmark, it might be on the same level for me as Maker's Mark and Jim Beam double oak.
@@Brewzlewhat’s your thoughts on Kentucky Owl?
@@SwapBlogRU I like the Four Roses yellow label especially for the price but placing it above Bulleit and even more so Buffalo Trace is a bold statement. One Four Roses is weak at 80 proof but for the price I would take it over their 90 proof small batch. Small batch doesn't have much flavor but the 100 proof single barrel is really good as is the 102 proof small batch select.
Beginner, and fellow Alabamian, here. Looking forward to trying these. Only one I've already had is Four Roses and I really enjoyed it.
Glad I found you! I'm a big fan of both Four Roses and Buffalo Trace. I'll have to try the rest some time.
I've been mostly focusing on the Texas bourbons, such as Balcones, Still Austin, and Ranger Creek. I'm finding the climate here helps in the aging process. There's always something new.
I'm still considering myself a beginner (4 years drinking bourbon, 2 of those really trying different bottles). I guessed BT, ER, FRSB, and EW just from the thumbnail. All great bottles and I was happy to see WT 101 make an appearance. Started on EW, then went to WT before moving to 101. After watching this I realize I need to go get a 101 and EW for old times sake!
Started with Elijah a while ago and tend to always go back to it. just so good and consistent
Love that whole list, I'd probably swap out the OF 86 for their 100 proof (or mentioned it as a 9th bottle) to add another higher proof pour to the list. It's a fraction more in price and it's such a great bottle for sipping neat or making an Old Fashioned with. The rest of the list is right on the money in my opinion. I'd also add that if you ever see 1792 Small Batch, grab that. It's a little rarer these days, but such a great bottle for the price, same with Early Times.
It's exactly the same price where I live, just slightly harder to find.
100 is soooo much better than 86 and barely more expensive
It’s a beginner list though. 86 proof might be better
The 100 proof is the only Old Forester I don't really like.
Appreciate letting me know on the live stream about this video. You guys are awesome!!
Strangely I started with Weller Special reserve. I got lucky to find a bottle near me. Since it wasn't available very often, but our shelves are stocked with Buffalo Trace. The BT was as good as the weller special reserve in my mind. I didn't know much about the McKenna 10 yr until I saw it on the shelf one day and bought it. Didn't know why this store had it on the shelf as now I realize I was lucky to find it. This set me on a BIB journey (Evan Williams is now my daily driver). Thanks TJ for these videos.
Loving the channel man! New to bourbon and learning a lot. New sub. Cheers!
Really love your videos, great content, entertaining.
Been a singlemalt drinker for the last 25y but after seeing your videos I got intriged to try some bourbons, tried the obvious like Jack Daniels, Jim Beam etc but after this video I order my self a Elijah Craig small batch, not so much bourbon on the shelf here in Sweden.
I'm from the UK and I tried Old Forester for the first time this Christmas and loved it. Four Roses is very nice too. Bullet is another nice one for me. Eagle Rare was on the shelf but the bottle kind of put me off but I'll try it next time for sure now 🥃🥃
Thanks for the list its hard to choose sometimes and i bet loads of people mispicked the wrong one and never tried again these beginner lists are really helpful
My first introduction to beer and whiskey was Bud Light and Fireball (neat). Holy hell I thought you whiskey guys were so full of it 😂.
Coming out of the gate with Evan Williams BIB just made my day. Taste, price, availability... check, check, and check. Love your channel! 👍
(For context, I’ve only drank something with 34% proof and plan on getting Maker’s Mark as a first bourbon. So this is actually a question instead of accusatory).
Isn’t it kinda high for a beginner? I know there’s stuff like 114, 116, and 124 proof bourbon but for a beginner wouldn’t you think 100 proof is still a bit much? Especially since beginners are people that typically have only had beers, cocktails, and shots (which don’t count since they aren’t actually trying to taste the whiskey).
Solid list, TJ! I definitely agree with most. If I had a buddy ask me for a recommend, who wasn't into spirits at all and not used to the proof, I'd give him a bottle of the Old Forester 86. I agree about Old Forester, I've loved about every bottle I've had from them, with the 1920 and 1910 being my favorites. But keeping it very affordable and easy to find, the OF86 is the way to start. Let them come up slowly to the proof and once they're ready to stretch their legs into higher proofs, I'd slide them over a bottle of the Wild Turkey 101. Thats a bottle that punches way above it's weight. Dollar for dollar it's very hard to beat.
Wild Turkey 101 tastes like cough syrup. Pairs well with Dr Pepper though.
Brewzle..My dude... Makers mark. Thank you for the help. I didn't realize this stuff was so good.
Yoooo, I plan on getting that for my first bourbon in two months. It’s nice to see someone saying they enjoyed it
I agree with this list completely, especially the old foresters. The best beginners.
Dude 8 isn’t enough I could genuinely watch you rate 100 whiskeys for a whole hour or 2 man I genuinely love your content thank you for being cool
Love that Evan William BiB made the list. It's a killer bargin for the quality.
love Wild Turkey 101 , definitely a great bang for your buck.
I'm impressed that you put down 10-16 ozs without slurring...modern marvels of editing.
You nailed it i love all those never tryed old foresters
I am a beginner with bourbon. Before watching this video, Buffalo Trace (my favorite) was my starter so I feel like I did something right. I eventually ventured into the Evan Williams B.I.B (also a favorite). I've had some others, some good, some not so good. On these recommendations, I will try the Eagle Rare, Elijah Craig and Wild Turkey 101. Thanks for your expertise.
Knob creek 9 and old grandad bnb. Great channel really enjoy watching!
Glad you like them!
Crazy how far your collection has come since this first came out!
So my brother is a big woodford guy and got me into trying whiskeys/bourbons. So far four roses single barrel and oddly michters small batch have been two of my favorites!
Always entertaining. 3 Chords blended bourbon is the first whisky that got me to like bourbon more then scotch. Now I'm excited to try more
I have 4 out of these 8 bottles in my cabinet as we speak. All great recommendations TJ. Love your videos.
I always see on many lists Buffalo trace , Evan Williams BIB & Wild Turkey 101 and it's soothing to know they're available here in my country , Philippines
I picked up my first bottle of Burbon ever last night. I bought a bottle of Maker's Mark. I really enjoyed it neat. As well as, with a glass of orange juice. Just a splash of Burbon with OJ.
For the first time in my life, I have eight bottles of bourbon in my cabinet: Evan William BiB 100, Wild Turkey 101, Old Forester 86, Old Forrester 100, Elijah Craig Small Batch 94, Four Roses Small Batch 90, Still Austin Straight Bourbon 94, and Frey Ranch Single Barrel Barrel Strength at 131.54 proof! Big fan of the Old Forrester 100 and Four Roses Small Batch 90. WT101 will be a staple. Still Austin Texas straight bourbon is very tasty and definitely feels different than the Kentucky bourbons (and worth it at $40).
I am relatively new to good bourbon, but the Frey Ranch Barrel Strength is on another level. Really good. At $99.99, it cost as much as my first 4 or 5 combined, so I'll savor that one for a while. Looking forward to trying a few more from the Old Forester line and a couple from Knobs Creek, and just exploring the $30 - $40 range.
If you enjoy Beam whiskeys and are interested in a new $100 bourbon, you really can't go wrong with Booker's. They released 4 unique batches in 2023 and the 2023-01 and 2023-04 batches in particular are dee-licious, I highly recommend them. I've also heard good things about the 2023-03 batch but I haven't had a chance to try it, or the 2023-02 batch (which I've heard was actually a bit underwhelming). They clock in within a few proof points of 126 proof, so they definitely pack a punch. Widow Jane 13 Year is also really, really good, and it comes in at a much more friendly 92 proof, it's not as thick and oily as Booker's but I greatly enjoyed the flavor profile, and it also doesn't give you chemical burns in your throat like these high-proof bourbons do, which is nice.
Thank you TJ... I'm going to go buy as many of those I can find today and start my journey. My best to you and your family!
Thanx is for the list. Been and old Jack Jim guy and looking for something different and you give me a great list
Great choices for a beginner I’ll have to say I’m always going back to Evan Williams bonded I just like it
Buffalo trace! I have a bottle of that right now. I actually picked it up between watching your videos and the show yellowstone. I enjoy it.
Spot on brother! I think all Four Roses single Barrel are 30 percent rye. Love you stuff!
I agree with Eagle Rare. Very good, easy sipping bourbon!
I was finally able to grab a bottle of Eagle Rare this past weekend while visiting the in-laws in GA. Haven't had a chance to open it up yet, but I'm really looking forward to it.
Good stuff!
Tried Buffalo Trace because of this video and loved it :)
That EW 100 is a good choice. You get 4 years in the barrel, which gives you a decent amount of flavor and can't beat the price.
I totally enjoy the Buffalo Trace. Yes it gets a bad rap sometimes but that is what i love about bourbon... its completely subjective. Additionally i wanted to high five you for the Eagle Rare. My absolute favorite bottle. Hard to find yes, pricey yes, keep for myself and not share with friends yes.
Looking good my g! Loved the video, just getting into whisky myself and your channel is one of the most newbie friendly ones out there!
Good selection. Enjoyed it!
Hi, I sipped on Wild Turkey 101 this weekend and it was so good!🥃😊
As a beginner, I’ve tried Wild turkey 101, buffalo Trace, and Four roses Small batch. All wonderful! I’ve also had a few scotch. Dalmore 12, red breast 12. All amazing
Nice! Sounds like you have a good start.
Elijah Craig small batch is a must have in the shelf for me makes a great old fashioned. Been trying to find the toasted barrel bottle haven’t had luck. I’ve loved every double oaked bottle I’ve tried. Old Forester 1910 is my favorite bourbon
I am a beginner with Bergen and doing videos. I’ve been awesome! Not only entertaining but informative. The first bottle I actually like is it a simple four roses. I am nor looking for a four roses single barrel. I just don’t see a lot of variation here in Utah with full state run liquor stores
Nice video man all I can agree with all 5 of these
Awesome!
But, there were 8 of them...
that is a great list. I haven't had benchmark even though available in my area or the evan williams BIB. SO will have to grab a bottle and try. I would maybe add Woodford Doubled Oak has a little sweetness for newbs. Glad you had Eagle Rare on list, I was thinking that would also be a great one. thanks for sharing. cheers.
Hands-down the best starter bourbon is WT101. Just wish I`d discovered it at the start of my bourbon journey! It`s got great flavour & the price is exceptional for the quality. Nice vid man, thanks.
Good list. Personally I'd ditch the 2 extra BuffTrace's and swap in Basil Hayden and Bulleit. Then add Maker's and one more to make it a Top 10 Starter Pack
I like bulleit ... don't like Makers though
Keep just the Eagle rare
@@CountryTortoise Agree
Basil Hayden's is really overpriced imo for what you get. I'm a nerd for history so I definitely appreciate that it's such a historic brand but you can get such better bourbons for what they charge
@@CountryTortoiseSame here I don't see the appeal for Maker's. I'm not even a Knob Creek fan but for me it's far superior to Maker's Mark. It's annoying that those are basically the only 2 Kentucky straight bourbons that you see at franchise restaurants like Outback, etc.
Hey TJ love the vids. The only benchmark I like is the single barrel.
Randomly stumbled into Publix liquor and found a bottle of Buffalo trace. Was super happy to get it for 29 bucks and try as a new guy to all drinking. Thanks for the Rec!
Evan Williams Bottled in Bond. IMO, by far the best bang for your buck. All around great in all categories of flavor, potency, availability and price. Drink ot neat or mix it, you can't lose.
Love that ec small batch is pretty good
yes sir!
Bought the turkey 101 a week ago god its good even better with Dr Pepper mixed. Picked up bottle in bond, 1783, and elijah craig small batch today gonna try them after work (thanks to Brewzle my cooler is now full of whiskey instead of a 30 rack of busch and a handle of jack 😂)
I appreciate your video so much, as Newbie
I’m enjoying Elijah Craig small batch while watching. I’m going through my journey so far I’ve had:
-Woodford Double Oak (one of my favorites)
-Blanton’s (very good, overpriced)
-Russel Reserve private barrel collection (my least favorite)
-Buffalo Trace (loved it)
-JD Single Barrel Barrel Proof (loved it)
-Knob Creek Single Barrel (loved it)
-Larceny Barrel Proof B523 Batch ( one of my favorites so far)
Went out and got the old forester, buffalo trace, Elijah Craig, and wild turkey. My favorite was the Elijah Craig.
Man you hit em all!! Great selection. My only addition, would be for folks new to the scene, to hit up a tasting of local whiskey producers, and see if there are any up and comers that really deliver value and unique taste. Just look at Old Elk, and Wyoming Whiskey double cask. Bringing it strong for a reasonable price
Does anyone else that’s not a drinker love watching these videos? I just find it very interesting.
Ditch the Benchmark and replace with 1792 small batch. I completely agree on WT 101 being the best bourbon for less than $25.
yeah, that could easily be on this list for sure.
I'm a beginner and the 1792 small batch is already a favorite for me 😊
I only just got into buying new whiskies and the wild turkey 101 is first one I got to get away from the Jamison I usually get. Its good. drinking it while i watch this. Next weekend I will try an other
I'm s beginner, and 4 Roses I liked. Tried it with a ice cube. Went down very easy and did not burn
Great list TJ!!!
Thanks!
I have yet to try buffalo trace and i love bourbon😂 i see it every time, next time i get a bottle i got to try it
I would say for classic bourbons this is pretty spot on for beginners especially those in AL that this is spot on and yes 101 is the best bourbon for the money on the market
I've always prefered the 100 proof and love, love the knob creek 9 year. Cheap at Sam's club. But I always make sure I have Four Roses single barrel 100 proof, and Heaven Hill bottled and bond on hand. My go to.
Thanks for all you do for us TJ , really enjoy your channel also thanks for turning me onto 4 roses single barrel ! Was passing through Bama working on the FL hurricane and would have liked to buy you a bourbon my friend.
Very solid list of solid pours!
Thanks Seth!
yes a good list. well done TJ. Only one of those we can't get in Oz is the 86 Old Forester.
Another good one! Keep ‘em coming!
Thanks! Will do!
Definitely a bourbon beginner, ive had the buffalo trace, the evan williams BIB, the wild turkey 101, the elijah craig and the four roses so i think I'm doing alright!
Good topic and list. I’m going with
1792
Woodford Reserve
Buffalo Trace
Bulleit
And Basil Hayden cause it’s near water
I don’t think i like bourbon but i will definitely try the 86 and see if that’s a good start
Still more of a beginner. Got more into bourbon about 1-2 years ago and to this day my favorite is still almost anything four roses puts out.
Also I do know THAT guy who says buffalo trace is bad but is obsessed with woodford. Hit the nail on the head there 😂
Love the Evan Williams BIB and Old Forester. WT101 is also an old standby.
I started my journey by poking around the bottom shelf (EW Black, OF86, WT) then I finally got around to the *WT101*. Without having much experience, this bourbon spoke to me like "you are home" and I knew this is what bourbon should taste like: Complex, balanced, and a nice finish. It has become my standard for comparing other $20-25 bottles. BTW, I picked up an EW BiB at WalMart today (in Arizona) for $16!!! I like it a lot, but the WT101 still beats it for overall flavor experience! 😁👍Cheers, all!!
Thank you sir!!
Wild Turkey 101 is what started my love for Bourbon. Add Makers to the list
Always good!
Great list
Glad you think so!
Tried the bonded Evan Williams and I love it! I'm a G&T guy no more! Thinking I'll give that Wild Turkey 101 a shot next. Have ya tried anything from New Riff? They've got a particular dedication to making bonded whiskey and I find it real intriguing.
new-ish whiskey drinker and I really like four roses barrel and wild turkey 101.
I’ve just recently got interested in whisky and I think I messed up accidentally starting at the top. Crown Royal 18 year… buddy of mine shared some with me and man it’s so freaking good but it’s about $150 a bottle around here lol by far the best out of the very few whisky and bourbons I’ve tried. Want to try more and now I have a good list to start with!!! Thanks TJ!
Love this channel
Nice to see a channel from Alabama, just wish I could find some of these bottles.
Great list, I’d add makers mark in there for a different kind of wheater
My coworker gave me a bottle of beam devils cut fir my birthday. Wasnt huge on the other whiskies I had tried (makers and jack) but this one was really good. I guess that was my gateway because now im getting into to whiskey lol.