I started watching SLB because I liked the bourbon reviews but I've stayed because I love the father-son dynamic. It's so cool seeing the bond that you two have over bourbon. Keep making fantastic content!
The Benchmark series is a breath of fresh air for my wallet. I'm getting tired of secondhand prices here in Texas. OGD 114 is my go-to as I cannot justify spending more than $60 for a bottle of bourbon. Thank you guys for the awesome review! Keep up the wonderful content gentlemen!
After searching for more than a year, I FINALLY came across the expanded Benchmark line! I picked up a Single Barrel and some Full Proof, and after tasting FP... WOW, what a value!
I had pretty much given up on Buffalo Trace, until Benchmark Full Proof came out. As long as that is readily available at $25-$30,... I'm all about it.
Fellow Hoosiers! Y'all are my new favorite whiskey channel for sure. I just picked up a single barrel bottle of Buffalo Trace (store pick)-phenomenal. Far and away the best bourbon I've ever had. I'm desperate to find something similar to it now. I've had Blanton's, EH Taylor, regular Buffalo Trace... man this bottle was just magic!
I would've liked to hear your opinions on Ancient Ancient Age. Nice to sip on to warm up for more expensive stuff, and it makes a great mixer too. Retails for like $20-23 a handle.
Benchmark 8 was the first bourbon I ever bought and drank, I have bought single barrel twice (enjoyed it, but probably not going to get it unless its on sale), but I am going to definelty try the Full Proof soon
I got Full proof today at a store close to me for $26. I still think it's a solid pour at that price. I had just watched your pie compliment video and just lol at Trent's remarks on this video. Great job guys 👏 👏 👏
Buffalo Trace used to be my go-to for years. I turned so many people on to it. And for fun, Eagle Rare. Now, I can barely find it here in northern Indiana, though I have seen it more lately. What that lack of availability has done for me though, is it made me start buying lots of other bourbons after much research, so now I have found many others of quality. It will always be my first love, and the memories are so fond, as first loves are. And when I find her now and then, we'll go for a spin, and remember the good things. LOL what just happened there🤣😂🤣
I fou buffalo trace in Tulsa ok 3 days ago for $29.99 boy that stuff just blows off the shelf is so wonderful in all ways and for 30$ I match it to any 70 $ bourbon
Trying out Benchmark 8 tonight for the first time, tryin to lock down a true budget bourbon as my staple. Totally been the best one by far and the cheapest! Gonna bacon wash it. Thank you guys!
Tried the 8 and BIB. Both were good but just bought the Full Proof today. The Full Proof tastes great and like this the best out of the Benchmark selection. Bad thing is in Atlanta the price has increased from $19.99 to $24.99. May have to grab an extra bottle before these prices increase anymore.
I'm very glad you said chocolate for the full proof. I've only been drinking bourbon 3 years, and have a hard time picking out flavors. To me, benchmark full proof is a chocolate bomb, and I love it!
It’s the first and only bourbon I really get chocolate notes from. Love it. Great seeing BFP for $19.99. I always pick up a spare when I see it for that price.
Kurt and Trenton thank you this video. I was thinking my palate was a mess because like you I found Benchmark Bonded taste burnt and harsh. Watching your vid I had a sip and its not any better some months later.
I think it was 3 videos ago I suggested you do the Benchmark lineup and here we are, thank you! It's funny to contrast your take on these with how Dan at Bourbon Junkies was raving about them, clearly there's a huge preference divide. But fortunately, here's a lineup that is super affordable so if you get burned, it's ok. Can't say that much anymore experimenting with other brands. I have the Bonded coming in and I can't resist trying the Top Floor, not really drawn to the others thusfar. Tell Trenton I know he's an alien. Never had pie? Is butterscotch sweet? Fooling nobody. 👽
Ha!! He might be an alien 😂. Over all I think the lineup is impressive comparing what you get for the cost. Some were a bit better than others imo but overall a great budget addition from Buffalo Trace!
Back in the day, the water tower at Buffalo Trace water tower used to have Ancient Age painted on it. Ancient Age 90 goes for 10 bucks in this neck of the woods (KY). The Bonded is my favorite. I like to open it and give it a month to "air" out.
This episode was so good, thank you! I have never had any of these, so I went after work to Goody Goody Liquor in Ft. Worth and purchased Benchmark 8. I am surprised by how creamy this is for an 80 proof! The flavors are good, but a tad faint to me. Paid just under $11. Probably better than Jim Beam but not as good as Jack Daniels...but half the price of JD! Still, this is a win-win! Thanks for your show.
As I let my Full Proof breathe it's getting sweeter and sweeter. Has to be the sweetest bottle I have, even more than the Makers Cask strength. Crazy...
Thanks for giving us the rundown! Gonna have to find some bottles here in SE Michigan. I want to try most of these. Namely the top floor and full proof
I believe the Buffalo Trace distillery used to be the Ancient Age Distillery. Very early in my bourbon journey, I used to drink Ancient Ancient Age 90 proof. I know a lot of folks who can't find Buffalo Trace have started buying Benchmark 8 and like it. I've never seen the remaining Benchmark products in my area but would like to try them.
Great job guys, used to find the 1.75 Benchmark for under $18.00, now never see it. Benchmark 8 has otherwise been a great low budget drink, and I can find it for under $9.00 on sale. But, with this review, I can see folks trying a budget bottle themselves, and then it will not be on the shelves. Thanks.....
Doubt this video will have that much of an impact especially considering this is a Buffalo Trace product. They are famous for allocating a majority of their lineup.
The only one of these bottles that I have ever seen is Ancient Age. I’ve been hunting for any one of those bottles and have never seen one. Can’t wait to try the Full Proof. I’m in CA
Wonder how the rankings would go if you reviewed these again. The Bonded has always been very good for me. Maybe you had a bad one somehow. Normally stay away from the inexpensive bottles but Benchmarks aren’t bad at all for budget.
So glad I watched this video of you guys trying out the budget line from them. I just picked up the Small Batch Benchmark and wanted to see what other people thought about it and found you guys did a video about the whole line up and we had similar thoughts on it. I think next run I'll pick up the Full Proof and see how they stack up next to each other. I've had the higher end Buffalo Trace releases and never heard of these releases until I moved away from the PNW. Cheers guys.
Oh man...im drinking the full proof right now. Good stuff, drinks like a $60+ whiskey. So much tobacco, Candy corn, Caramel. Finish is tad bitter but it'll do.
This video is a year old but when I was in Evansville, IN over the summer every single store had a full line up of Benchmark stacked deep. Like 20/20 on stores having every single bottle.
Just picked up a BT today for $29.99 at Binny's in Gurnee, IL. Huge store with a great selection but it was the first time I'd seen BT there. They have the Benchmark 8 for less than $10. I have tried the Benchmark Small Batch and really liked it for a mixer.
I've had the benchmark 8 as a mixer and was pleasantly surprised by the quality for the price. I picked up a single barrel yesterday and honestly for $25 I'm more than happy with it. I pick up a nice cherry note and the oak is actually pleasant. I'm done going on wild goose chases to spend $50+ on a bottle that is marginaly better if not equal to or worse than my go to bottles under $30. Just going to stick to my cheap regulars and keep an eye out for anything new that seems interesting for under $30
i have a few of the benchmarks and was not overly impressed with any of them so they went to the mixed drink shelf. I think there are more flavorable options out there in the price range
As a married father of 4 children, I am always interested in “budget friendly” bourbons. Would you be willing to elaborate on which bottles you prefer around this price point? I’m always interested in adding to my to small collection without killing the budget! Thank you in advance!
Absolutely! Evan Williams black label and 1783 are a couple of my favorite budgets on the bottom shelf. A couple of these Benchmark options are pretty good as well. Just outside the bottom shelf there are tons of great options in the low 20’s. Wild Turkey 101, Old Forester 100 proof, coopers craft 100 proof, old grandad just to name a few. Take care of your wonderful family!
Well I went back to my benchmark bottled in bond and full proof and they both tasted really good for the price maybe 1st time through was a off day. I think today I enjoy the bonded better . I am also a fan of evans williams bonded
Iowa got the BiB, Top Floor, and SmB last week. Also got in some Ancient Age 10 Star. So far I’ve tried the BM BiB and the AA 10 Star. Both are decent, but nothing special. Hoping we get the BM FP at some point while it’s still priced fairly.
Full proof $19 crazy ..if our 37% is $45 I'm guessing full proof be over a hundred if they ever decide to send the good stuff over ..lol..sounds good ,you's be enjoying it more knowing it was under $20...but if it's $100+ would you still like it and want to buy it.at these rates I wouldn't run out of bottles to drink ..think I'm living in the wrong country lol .cheers guys great video .I like to hear what things are worth and what you's think helps me work out what's good and what's not here
I enjoyed the Full Proof Benchmark, and the price is so great for a high-proof whiskey! It won't, however, be replacing my go-to bourbon under $50: OGD 114.
I recently picked up the small batch and it was really not my type for some reason I've got some weller, and regular buffalo trace that i adore, but the flavors didnt do it for me, i might go back for the small batch to see if i can find something worthwhile! Great review though fellas :)
I had Ancient Ancient Age recently, which is 90 proof, and thought it was surprisingly good. I also had some Benchmark Old #8 and was not impressed with it at all. I guess everyone has a different palate. Good informative video regardless. Cheers!
@@FakingANerve eh, my grandpa drank AA. So even if it’s not the best, it has a soft spot in my heart. I drink it regularly and the 10 star when I can get it
I don't remember when I came across your channel. It was a while ago. Below 5k subs. I was intrigued by your setup and simple approach. It's been really cool to see how your channel has evolved and the channel has grown. Great work! Really like these kinds of videos. Would also still like to see the cocktail recipe videos when you get a chance. Maybe a run down of your favorite cocktails of each base spirit? Anyway, keep up the good work!
Thanks so much for being with us from basically the beginning! We are considering adding another video per week or every other week if time allows us. If so it would be a one bottle review or cocktails.
Guess the only benchmark I have seen and tried is a 37% version..which I guess they released to compete against the Jim beam white label 37% lol definitely watery..lol just when I thought it couldn't get worse seeing as our Buffalo trace is only 80proof for $65 so I guess $45 for 37% benchmark is good hearing what you guys pay makes me think dam ..I'd be able to buy lots more bottles to try if I was living in the states that's forsure...cheers mate .keep up the good work guys
Another great video. Really liking this channel. I have not been a fan of Benchmark. I've tried about 4 of those so far (have not tried the full proof or small batch), and none have been to my liking. Saying that, Buffalo Trace is one of my favorites, so I was surprised when I found out Benchmark was from the same distillery.
I love that you guys have the bonded in last place. It just goes to show how everyone's palettes r so different. The bonded is the one gaining all the attention right now with whiskey tubers etc. Glad you guys did that video! 👏
I had to circle back to this video. I got a bottle of Full proof. I REALLY like it. To me, it's like a butterscotch cookie with ginger spice, or maybe like a payday candy bar (peanuts and caramel). Surprise Trent liked it not liking butterscotch, but I don't usually like peanuts so,,, I paid $22 and change and am calling it my new favorite regardless of price (at least for this particular bottle and time). At 125 proof it is a bit spicy but still smooth as a straight sipper. Best regards to all.
Your right that benchmark 8 is great for the price but the thing I hate about it is after the fist day I open it I find it to be thin. I have come to prefer Ezra brooks for the price over benchmark 8. I do want to try that ancient age and full proof now. Most of the time because I’m in college and on a budget I go for wild turkey 101 or Ezra brooks.
Young Matt Damon did well. Just needs to not hate butterscotch, it’s common in bourbon. Great job overall, I always considered Benchmark8 a great mixer. The others are not available where I live. I will keep my eye open for the full proof.
Been watching lots of your videos lately, learning quite a bit, am usually an aged rum drinker, but started to pick up some Bourbons/Whiskeys...interesting video, as always!
I don't really have a dog in this fight, but will share my thoughts on what I've had. I just tried the Top Floor based on the Bourbon Junkies review. Top Floor is ok, but not great IMO. I remember enjoying Small Batch but not enough to repurchase. The Bonded surprised me, because I kinda liked that one! The Full Proof also surprised me. It is SOOOO simultaneously sweet (thinking butterscotch too) and HOT on the nose. I believe it drinks SO hot as well. Not refined at all. Hard to find in my area and for sure more expensive, but 1792 Full Proof at same 125 proof so outshines this as a proper higr proof sipper. I generally agree with your takes, but differ on this, but it's all good (figuratively and literally :) ).
My friends used to make fun of me for bringing by the Benchmark 8 back in the day. But I knew better then, and I still do now. I keep a case in my closet. And now I'll be hunting up some Full Proof.
Thanks for this great, informative and entertaining video, guys! I recently heard of Benchmark from you and looked for it at my local liquor store here in SE Texas. Our prices are WAY higher than yours! Ugh! I'm gonna seek out that Full Proof, though! Thanks, again, and keep up the awesome videos!
I haven't had any of the Benchmarks or the AA. I don't really buy many low proof whiskey's and I don't really like standard Buffalo Trace. That being said, I'd like to give them a try, but I would lean toward maybe the SiB, the bonded, or the full proof, and those I haven't seen in my area yet. Have you guys ever reviewed David Nicholson? They have a wheater and a ryed version, would be a good comparison. The David Nicholson Reserve, which is the mash bill with more rye, is a very good whiskey. Cheers!
Got Benchmark FP based on both your reactions.. gotta say I’m blown away… good call don’t like Benchmark 8 at all and this is next level. Better than/equal to many other more expensive FP offerings
It is pretty special considering the price! My only knock is it can bite you a bit being a younger whiskey but the flavors are excellent! Glad you enjoyed it!
I wish I had watched this before trying any of these! I just got the Bonded and the Full Proof and love the Full Proof and am very disappointed in the Bonded. The Bonded is harsh and a lot of spice and burn in the mouth - very unbalanced. And based on your review, I think I will pass on all the rest. Thank you again for a great review! P.S. I added a splash of chilled Topo Chico mineral water to the Bonded (about a cap-full to a 30ml shot) and gave it a stir, resulting in a toned-down expression that was easier to drink. I still would not ever buy the Bonded again; but this will get me through the bottle without tossing it out! 😆
boy, that John guy seems like a stand up dude.... I wish we could get the others.. glad you did. Hoping one of these days to try the others... you are right, for 11 bucks (where I am) the 8 is a pretty decent pour. Sounds like the Small Batch/full proof is the best for the money... besides the 8. thanks for the vid... very cool..... cheers fellas!!
Their products always are not the same. For me Bonded was very good, and the first bottle of my Full Proof was good but the second bottle from another store was horrible.! I recommend you if you get a bottle (any kind) and you like it, go back to the same store and get more from the same shelf. Because probably they are from one barrel or same batch. Cheers! 🥃
Ancient Age 90 proof is very good. Hard to distinguish from Blanton's. $13 for BT Mashbill 1. (Buffalo Trace distillery was the Ancient Age distillery until 1999).
I bought benchmark bib and at the same time as finding an Eagle Rare (a rare find here) poured both of them at same time. Got the glasses mixed up and could not tell the difference. Bib here must be a lot a lot better here :)
Or the Eagle Rare was a bad batch. Both are not my favorites, after the bottles aired out a little I could a tell a difference. The Eagle Rare got better. Not sure if I would rebuy BIB probably would EagleRare again only at list price though.
Kurt, don't know what happened but you haven't come up on my feed in quite sometime. I had to go to my sub list to find you and try to remember your channels name. Anyway, off topic of this vid but as I've told you the bourbon selection is very limited where I live. I just managed to find some Bulleit 95% Rye yesterday and bought same today and am test driving it as we speak. A good drop and surprisingly smooth especially for the octane rating. I prefer it to the Frontier because it's a lot smoother and I really liked the Frontier, so much so I drank almost two bottles in as many days 😅 You may not recall but I haven't drank a rye since my last bottle of Jim Beam rye in the mid 70's? Anyway, greetings from Phnom Penh and I am happy to see you're still knocking out the vids!
@@slbdrinks Same here Kurt. I thought for a minute that utube had shut you down for one reason or another. As of late all I'm getting is news on the Ukraine fiasco. Glad I found some more good bourbon to take off the edge. Also happy to see you're still test driving the spirits. Smooth sailing amigo!
![[TH] 2024 PMGC League | Survival Stage วันที่ 1 | PUBG MOBILE Global Championship](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/FVFT-PFwU80/mqdefault.jpg)
I started watching SLB because I liked the bourbon reviews but I've stayed because I love the father-son dynamic. It's so cool seeing the bond that you two have over bourbon. Keep making fantastic content!
The Benchmark series is a breath of fresh air for my wallet. I'm getting tired of secondhand prices here in Texas. OGD 114 is my go-to as I cannot justify spending more than $60 for a bottle of bourbon. Thank you guys for the awesome review! Keep up the wonderful content gentlemen!
Try Elijah Craig it’s an amazing buffalo trace killer and only 30 bucks , $60 for the handle witch is insane and a bargain.
After searching for more than a year, I FINALLY came across the expanded Benchmark line! I picked up a Single Barrel and some Full Proof, and after tasting FP... WOW, what a value!
Thanks guys, nice job of sharing opinions on Bourbons from one Distiller. Heh, I actually still but Ancient Age as a mixer too.
Best review of Benchmark I have seen online. Thanks guys, great channel!!!
I had pretty much given up on Buffalo Trace, until Benchmark Full Proof came out.
As long as that is readily available at $25-$30,... I'm all about it.
Hard to argue your point!
Fellow Hoosiers! Y'all are my new favorite whiskey channel for sure.
I just picked up a single barrel bottle of Buffalo Trace (store pick)-phenomenal. Far and away the best bourbon I've ever had. I'm desperate to find something similar to it now. I've had Blanton's, EH Taylor, regular Buffalo Trace... man this bottle was just magic!
Never had a store pick BT but I can imagine that it’s phenomenal!
I would've liked to hear your opinions on Ancient Ancient Age. Nice to sip on to warm up for more expensive stuff, and it makes a great mixer too. Retails for like $20-23 a handle.
Benchmark 8 definitely a decent mixer, especially w/ something like coke or sprite.
Benchmark 8 was the first bourbon I ever bought and drank, I have bought single barrel twice (enjoyed it, but probably not going to get it unless its on sale), but I am going to definelty try the Full Proof soon
Watching this review sipping on eagle rare 10. But warmed up on bench 8. Niiiiice
I got Full proof today at a store close to me for $26. I still think it's a solid pour at that price. I had just watched your pie compliment video and just lol at Trent's remarks on this video. Great job guys 👏 👏 👏
Buffalo Trace used to be my go-to for years. I turned so many people on to it. And for fun, Eagle Rare. Now, I can barely find it here in northern Indiana, though I have seen it more lately. What that lack of availability has done for me though, is it made me start buying lots of other bourbons after much research, so now I have found many others of quality. It will always be my first love, and the memories are so fond, as first loves are. And when I find her now and then, we'll go for a spin, and remember the good things. LOL what just happened there🤣😂🤣
If you’re ever in the Indy area, there’s a liquor store called rural inn on the east side. As far as I’m aware they always carry Buffalo trace
@@ajbucher9440 Thank you AJ!
Well spoken!
I had to laugh a liquor store near me had BT in a locked glass case. 🤷🏻♂️
I fou buffalo trace in Tulsa ok 3 days ago for $29.99 boy that stuff just blows off the shelf is so wonderful in all ways and for 30$ I match it to any 70 $ bourbon
Trying out Benchmark 8 tonight for the first time, tryin to lock down a true budget bourbon as my staple. Totally been the best one by far and the cheapest! Gonna bacon wash it. Thank you guys!
Love full proof i just bought two bottles. They are 27.99 here some store’s want 50. But for me at 27.99 i love it!
Tried the 8 and BIB. Both were good but just bought the Full Proof today. The Full Proof tastes great and like this the best out of the Benchmark selection. Bad thing is in Atlanta the price has increased from $19.99 to $24.99. May have to grab an extra bottle before these prices increase anymore.
I love the Benchmark lineup!!
All great bottles for very little money!!
I'm very glad you said chocolate for the full proof. I've only been drinking bourbon 3 years, and have a hard time picking out flavors. To me, benchmark full proof is a chocolate bomb, and I love it!
Yes indeed!
It’s the first and only bourbon I really get chocolate notes from. Love it. Great seeing BFP for $19.99. I always pick up a spare when I see it for that price.
Sipping on some Top Floor as I watch this. It's the only one I 've seen in my area. Definitely keeping an eye out for the Full Proof.
Kurt and Trenton thank you this video. I was thinking my palate was a mess because like you I found Benchmark Bonded taste burnt and harsh. Watching your vid I had a sip and its not any better some months later.
Wasn’t my favorite that’s for sure Guy. Good to hear from you! Hope all is well!
Picked up Single Barrel the other day. Solid pour. Classic BT notes. Gonna buy the rest just to do the Blind myself
I think it was 3 videos ago I suggested you do the Benchmark lineup and here we are, thank you! It's funny to contrast your take on these with how Dan at Bourbon Junkies was raving about them, clearly there's a huge preference divide. But fortunately, here's a lineup that is super affordable so if you get burned, it's ok. Can't say that much anymore experimenting with other brands. I have the Bonded coming in and I can't resist trying the Top Floor, not really drawn to the others thusfar. Tell Trenton I know he's an alien. Never had pie? Is butterscotch sweet? Fooling nobody. 👽
Ha!! He might be an alien 😂.
Over all I think the lineup is impressive comparing what you get for the cost. Some were a bit better than others imo but overall a great budget addition from Buffalo Trace!
Never knew much about Ancient Age nor tried it until I watched your earlier videos guys. It's an easy bourbon for 10 bucks. Great video!
Picked up the Single Barrel today....I personally loved it. Very sweet and easy to drink, very tasty.
Back in the day, the water tower at Buffalo Trace water tower used to have Ancient Age painted on it. Ancient Age 90 goes for 10 bucks in this neck of the woods (KY). The Bonded is my favorite. I like to open it and give it a month to "air" out.
The basic AA is the only one I have ever been able to find unfortunately.
The Benchmark Full proof is by far the best in your lineup! I love it. Do a comparison to 1792 full proof. It will surprise you. Bang for the buck.
Great comparison!
12:48 LOLOLOLOL "Wait (trying not to spit out the juice)... pie's horrible!?! Who are you?!" 😆
That kid 😂
This episode was so good, thank you! I have never had any of these, so I went after work to Goody Goody Liquor in Ft. Worth and purchased Benchmark 8. I am surprised by how creamy this is for an 80 proof! The flavors are good, but a tad faint to me. Paid just under $11. Probably better than Jim Beam but not as good as Jack Daniels...but half the price of JD! Still, this is a win-win! Thanks for your show.
Glad you like it!
As I let my Full Proof breathe it's getting sweeter and sweeter. Has to be the sweetest bottle I have, even more than the Makers Cask strength. Crazy...
Thanks for giving us the rundown! Gonna have to find some bottles here in SE Michigan. I want to try most of these. Namely the top floor and full proof
I am in MI and so far, I have only seen the 8.
Bourbon in the morning! 😀 Great review. I'll have to look for these in my area. Thanks!
I believe the Buffalo Trace distillery used to be the Ancient Age Distillery. Very early in my bourbon journey, I used to drink Ancient Ancient Age 90 proof. I know a lot of folks who can't find Buffalo Trace have started buying Benchmark 8 and like it. I've never seen the remaining Benchmark products in my area but would like to try them.
I have to assume you will see more Benchmarks soon! We only had the 8 for quite some time as well.
it was never called ancient age distillery
Great job guys, used to find the 1.75 Benchmark for under $18.00, now never see it. Benchmark 8 has otherwise been a great low budget drink, and I can find it for under $9.00 on sale.
But, with this review, I can see folks trying a budget bottle themselves, and then it will not be on the shelves. Thanks.....
Doubt this video will have that much of an impact especially considering this is a Buffalo Trace product. They are famous for allocating a majority of their lineup.
The only one of these bottles that I have ever seen is Ancient Age. I’ve been hunting for any one of those bottles and have never seen one. Can’t wait to try the Full Proof. I’m in CA
Wonder how the rankings would go if you reviewed these again. The Bonded has always been very good for me. Maybe you had a bad one somehow. Normally stay away from the inexpensive bottles but Benchmarks aren’t bad at all for budget.
So glad I watched this video of you guys trying out the budget line from them. I just picked up the Small Batch Benchmark and wanted to see what other people thought about it and found you guys did a video about the whole line up and we had similar thoughts on it. I think next run I'll pick up the Full Proof and see how they stack up next to each other. I've had the higher end Buffalo Trace releases and never heard of these releases until I moved away from the PNW. Cheers guys.
Had to revisit this episode. I would love to see these in double blinds against their big brother equivalents and some other competition.
Oh man...im drinking the full proof right now. Good stuff, drinks like a $60+ whiskey. So much tobacco, Candy corn, Caramel. Finish is tad bitter but it'll do.
This video is a year old but when I was in Evansville, IN over the summer every single store had a full line up of Benchmark stacked deep. Like 20/20 on stores having every single bottle.
Just picked up a BT today for $29.99 at Binny's in Gurnee, IL. Huge store with a great selection but it was the first time I'd seen BT there. They have the Benchmark 8 for less than $10. I have tried the Benchmark Small Batch and really liked it for a mixer.
I've had the benchmark 8 as a mixer and was pleasantly surprised by the quality for the price. I picked up a single barrel yesterday and honestly for $25 I'm more than happy with it. I pick up a nice cherry note and the oak is actually pleasant. I'm done going on wild goose chases to spend $50+ on a bottle that is marginaly better if not equal to or worse than my go to bottles under $30. Just going to stick to my cheap regulars and keep an eye out for anything new that seems interesting for under $30
I've got all of these bottles, and for the $$$ they are hard to beat. And yes i do like comparing them to other bottles in that 20$ price range
i have a few of the benchmarks and was not overly impressed with any of them so they went to the mixed drink shelf. I think there are more flavorable options out there in the price range
I can respect that.
As a married father of 4 children, I am always interested in “budget friendly” bourbons. Would you be willing to elaborate on which bottles you prefer around this price point? I’m always interested in adding to my to small collection without killing the budget!
Thank you in advance!
Absolutely! Evan Williams black label and 1783 are a couple of my favorite budgets on the bottom shelf. A couple of these Benchmark options are pretty good as well. Just outside the bottom shelf there are tons of great options in the low 20’s. Wild Turkey 101, Old Forester 100 proof, coopers craft 100 proof, old grandad just to name a few.
Take care of your wonderful family!
Well I went back to my benchmark bottled in bond and full proof and they both tasted really good for the price maybe 1st time through was a off day. I think today I enjoy the bonded better . I am also a fan of evans williams bonded
Iowa got the BiB, Top Floor, and SmB last week. Also got in some Ancient Age 10 Star. So far I’ve tried the BM BiB and the AA 10 Star. Both are decent, but nothing special. Hoping we get the BM FP at some point while it’s still priced fairly.
I have never seen the 10 star myself or the old charter.
Excellent video... I have only seen the Benchmark No 8 at the VA ABC by my house
My Grandma made butterscotch pie, too. Was pretty phenomenal with hand made crust!
Now I want one! Been years.
Full proof $19 crazy ..if our 37% is $45 I'm guessing full proof be over a hundred if they ever decide to send the good stuff over ..lol..sounds good ,you's be enjoying it more knowing it was under $20...but if it's $100+ would you still like it and want to buy it.at these rates I wouldn't run out of bottles to drink ..think I'm living in the wrong country lol .cheers guys great video .I like to hear what things are worth and what you's think helps me work out what's good and what's not here
I love your relationship. I enjoy your conversations as much as the tastings. You make me laugh every time.
I enjoyed the Full Proof Benchmark, and the price is so great for a high-proof whiskey! It won't, however, be replacing my go-to bourbon under $50: OGD 114.
Good review guys & very helpful. Gonna have to give Benchmark small batch & full proof a try.
I recently picked up the small batch and it was really not my type for some reason I've got some weller, and regular buffalo trace that i adore, but the flavors didnt do it for me, i might go back for the small batch to see if i can find something worthwhile! Great review though fellas :)
These are all over middle Indiana/Fishers area.
I’ve stocked up
I had Ancient Ancient Age recently, which is 90 proof, and thought it was surprisingly good. I also had some Benchmark Old #8 and was not impressed with it at all. I guess everyone has a different palate. Good informative video regardless. Cheers!
The 90 proof AA is 10 star and only comes out once a year
@@benweber5186 ...and it's actually somewhat drinkable, as opposed to the standard AA.
@@FakingANerve eh, my grandpa drank AA. So even if it’s not the best, it has a soft spot in my heart. I drink it regularly and the 10 star when I can get it
@@benweber5186 Well, in that case, cheers to your grandpa. 🍻
I have never seen the 90 or the 10 star so I will take your word on it!
I picked up the Benchmark Full Proof yesterday before watching this video and I'm glad I did. LOL
Thanks for doing a lot of reviews on available whiskey. Its nice to watch your video and drive to the store and find it.
Perfect!
I don't remember when I came across your channel. It was a while ago. Below 5k subs. I was intrigued by your setup and simple approach. It's been really cool to see how your channel has evolved and the channel has grown. Great work! Really like these kinds of videos. Would also still like to see the cocktail recipe videos when you get a chance. Maybe a run down of your favorite cocktails of each base spirit? Anyway, keep up the good work!
Thanks so much for being with us from basically the beginning! We are considering adding another video per week or every other week if time allows us. If so it would be a one bottle review or cocktails.
Guess the only benchmark I have seen and tried is a 37% version..which I guess they released to compete against the Jim beam white label 37% lol definitely watery..lol just when I thought it couldn't get worse seeing as our Buffalo trace is only 80proof for $65 so I guess $45 for 37% benchmark is good hearing what you guys pay makes me think dam ..I'd be able to buy lots more bottles to try if I was living in the states that's forsure...cheers mate .keep up the good work guys
Appreciate your input! I always feel bad for you and all our friends abroad considering what you have to pay for whiskey.
Another great video. Really liking this channel. I have not been a fan of Benchmark. I've tried about 4 of those so far (have not tried the full proof or small batch), and none have been to my liking. Saying that, Buffalo Trace is one of my favorites, so I was surprised when I found out Benchmark was from the same distillery.
Another outstanding episode...your scientific approach is great and loads of fun! I have not tried Any of these...I must try them...
Thank you!
I love that you guys have the bonded in last place. It just goes to show how everyone's palettes r so different. The bonded is the one gaining all the attention right now with whiskey tubers etc. Glad you guys did that video! 👏
We call them as we see them. Doesn’t mean others won’t disagree but that’s ok to.
another video had the bonded as their #1. As they say "your palate may vary"
I had to circle back to this video. I got a bottle of Full proof. I REALLY like it. To me, it's like a butterscotch cookie with ginger spice, or maybe like a payday candy bar (peanuts and caramel). Surprise Trent liked it not liking butterscotch, but I don't usually like peanuts so,,, I paid $22 and change and am calling it my new favorite regardless of price (at least for this particular bottle and time). At 125 proof it is a bit spicy but still smooth as a straight sipper. Best regards to all.
Congrats!
Very surprised by your all’s reaction to the bonded. It might be my favorite…I like to blend the full proof and bonded 50/50.
The bonded sucks go to the hardware store buy paint thinner if you like the bonded you will enjoy it
If you enjoy it that’s all that matters. All about personal preference.
Your right that benchmark 8 is great for the price but the thing I hate about it is after the fist day I open it I find it to be thin. I have come to prefer Ezra brooks for the price over benchmark 8. I do want to try that ancient age and full proof now. Most of the time because I’m in college and on a budget I go for wild turkey 101 or Ezra brooks.
I need to try the EB as well.
Trent - I'm still drinking the Ancient Age 🤣Curt, Happy to see you took my advice and now the two of you are a team !! Mike Atlanta GA
Thanks Mike! Always love to hear from you!
Great review guys, thank you for this drinkthrough. The full proof sounds like the one to go with.
down here in Jacksonville Florida buffalo trace is everywhere I always buy two or 3 of the big bottles when I drive back home to give to family
Crazy how some areas have never ending supplies and others have none.
@@slbdrinks yea you can't go in and grab 10 bottles you can go in and grab 1 bottle
What a great comparison, especially since I have never tried any Benchmarks. Congrats on 53k subs! Amazing - must be the Trenton effect!
Has to be! Thanks Jeff!
I found Buffalo Trace here for $26 a bottle recently. I’ll keep buying at that price for sure!
Young Matt Damon did well. Just needs to not hate butterscotch, it’s common in bourbon. Great job overall, I always considered Benchmark8 a great mixer. The others are not available where I live. I will keep my eye open for the full proof.
Been watching lots of your videos lately, learning quite a bit, am usually an aged rum drinker, but started to pick up some Bourbons/Whiskeys...interesting video, as always!
I drive an hour across state lines to get me a couple bottles of full proof every couple months, i love that 25 dollar 125 proof bottle
Looking for the Full Proof in SC, nice job on the reviews
Just picked up a benchmark single barrel I love it dam it’s good
Ancient Age 90 proof is a go to for me. My go to 80 proof mixer is TW Samuels for $8.my mamaw and mom make great butterscotch pie!
Love butterscotch pie!
Like the idea of this series all the bourbons from under the same umbrella
Really enjoyed this budget episode
I don't really have a dog in this fight, but will share my thoughts on what I've had. I just tried the Top Floor based on the Bourbon Junkies review. Top Floor is ok, but not great IMO. I remember enjoying Small Batch but not enough to repurchase. The Bonded surprised me, because I kinda liked that one! The Full Proof also surprised me. It is SOOOO simultaneously sweet (thinking butterscotch too) and HOT on the nose. I believe it drinks SO hot as well. Not refined at all. Hard to find in my area and for sure more expensive, but 1792 Full Proof at same 125 proof so outshines this as a proper higr proof sipper. I generally agree with your takes, but differ on this, but it's all good (figuratively and literally :) ).
Yup all personal opinions! The full proof does come in a bit hot so can’t disagree there.
My friends used to make fun of me for bringing by the Benchmark 8 back in the day. But I knew better then, and I still do now. I keep a case in my closet. And now I'll be hunting up some Full Proof.
So hard to beat it for the price!
Thanks for this great, informative and entertaining video, guys! I recently heard of Benchmark from you and looked for it at my local liquor store here in SE Texas. Our prices are WAY higher than yours! Ugh! I'm gonna seek out that Full Proof, though! Thanks, again, and keep up the awesome videos!
Sorry bout the prices 😟
I haven't had any of the Benchmarks or the AA. I don't really buy many low proof whiskey's and I don't really like standard Buffalo Trace. That being said, I'd like to give them a try, but I would lean toward maybe the SiB, the bonded, or the full proof, and those I haven't seen in my area yet. Have you guys ever reviewed David Nicholson? They have a wheater and a ryed version, would be a good comparison. The David Nicholson Reserve, which is the mash bill with more rye, is a very good whiskey. Cheers!
I have included the DNR in a past video! I think it’s an excellent buy!
Full Proof for the win! Just picked up my 2nd bottle.
Enjoy all your bourbon videos. Is your Benchmark 8 a 1.75L plastic bottle? The only bottle I can find is that one at $24.29.
Mine is a 750 but I have seen the big plastic bottle as well.
@@slbdrinks thanks
Got Benchmark FP based on both your reactions.. gotta say I’m blown away… good call don’t like Benchmark 8 at all and this is next level. Better than/equal to many other more expensive FP offerings
It is pretty special considering the price! My only knock is it can bite you a bit being a younger whiskey but the flavors are excellent! Glad you enjoyed it!
I wish I had watched this before trying any of these! I just got the Bonded and the Full Proof and love the Full Proof and am very disappointed in the Bonded. The Bonded is harsh and a lot of spice and burn in the mouth - very unbalanced. And based on your review, I think I will pass on all the rest. Thank you again for a great review!
P.S. I added a splash of chilled Topo Chico mineral water to the Bonded (about a cap-full to a 30ml shot) and gave it a stir, resulting in a toned-down expression that was easier to drink. I still would not ever buy the Bonded again; but this will get me through the bottle without tossing it out! 😆
boy, that John guy seems like a stand up dude.... I wish we could get the others.. glad you did. Hoping one of these days to try the others... you are right, for 11 bucks (where I am) the 8 is a pretty decent pour. Sounds like the Small Batch/full proof is the best for the money... besides the 8. thanks for the vid... very cool.....
cheers fellas!!
Enjoy your company on the channel John!
Their products always are not the same. For me Bonded was very good, and the first bottle of my Full Proof was good but the second bottle from another store was horrible.! I recommend you if you get a bottle (any kind) and you like it, go back to the same store and get more from the same shelf. Because probably they are from one barrel or same batch. Cheers! 🥃
As always, great overall review. I really look forward to these videos. I’m looking forward to the next one.
Question…. You mentioned the pour was 30-45 mins prior to tasting. So is decanting recommended?
Yes actually it is! The more I learn about blending I find the longer it sits and melds together the better it is.
I just got some bench mark bottles while in Georgia and the full proof is incredible at $22!
I have always liked the Benchmark 8 for the money it’s always been a good sip but have never seen the others
I love your videos and I am wondering where Old Crow would fit in that lineup?
Great Benchmark review ! Have u ever blended bourbon ? Maybe #8 and Full proof ?
So far the BB is my favorite
Honestly I think the Small Batch is almost identical to Buffalo Trace itself.
Ancient Age 90 proof is very good. Hard to distinguish from Blanton's. $13 for BT Mashbill 1. (Buffalo Trace distillery was the Ancient Age distillery until 1999).
I have only been able to find the basic AA. Would love to try the others.
I'm so happy I came across your channel, this really helps me at my job at Big Red.
Is big red in Indy??
I bought benchmark bib and at the same time as finding an Eagle Rare (a rare find here) poured both of them at same time. Got the glasses mixed up and could not tell the difference. Bib here must be a lot a lot better here :)
I could have a bad bottle to who knows. Key is you like it!
Or the Eagle Rare was a bad batch. Both are not my favorites, after the bottles aired out a little I could a tell a difference. The Eagle Rare got better. Not sure if I would rebuy BIB probably would EagleRare again only at list price though.
Kurt, don't know what happened but you haven't come up on my feed in quite sometime.
I had to go to my sub list to find you and try to remember your channels name.
Anyway, off topic of this vid but as I've told you the bourbon selection is very limited where I live.
I just managed to find some Bulleit 95% Rye yesterday and bought same today and am test driving it as we speak. A good drop and surprisingly smooth especially for the octane rating. I prefer it to the Frontier because it's a lot smoother and I really liked the Frontier, so much so I drank almost two bottles in as many days 😅
You may not recall but I haven't drank a rye since my last bottle of Jim Beam rye in the mid 70's?
Anyway, greetings from Phnom Penh and I am happy to see you're still knocking out the vids!
Hey Skipper! Glad to hear you are doing well! Me personally I really like the Bulleit rye. Love the orange note I get.
@@slbdrinks Same here Kurt. I thought for a minute that utube had shut you down for one reason or another.
As of late all I'm getting is news on the Ukraine fiasco. Glad I found some more good bourbon to take off the edge. Also happy to see you're still test driving the spirits.
Smooth sailing amigo!
Very interesting show. Love a good value bourbon. Now I have to go out and search for some of these. Thanks!
Was able to find the single barrel for $24 in OH. A good pour for the price. Now I want to look for the FullProof.