The Top 5 Bourbons for $25
Meet Luke
Luke is a Level I Certified Whiskey Specialist with a passion for exploring and unearthing the best whiskeys around. Luke has a preference for Rye whiskeys but has tasted over 250 different whiskeys to date varying from bourbons to scotches. He continues to expand upon his whiskey knowledge by tasting dozens of bottles monthly and reviewing them here on Barrel and Brew as he pursues his Masters of Whiskey certification.
Recently, I’ve reviewed a lot of good whiskey. However, a lot of that has been small batch, single barrel, and cask strength options. While that’s going to be your best whiskey, it’s also your more expensive whiskey. So, today we’re going to discuss the top 5 bourbons you can buy for $25, give or take a couple bucks.
When it comes to the top 5 $25 bourbons, there’s a specific thing I’m looking for – can I enjoy this neat or on the rocks? Yes, $25 bourbon usually ends up in a mixed drink or a cocktail, but the best may actually surprise you. Over the years, I’ve had some very good bourbon and whiskey within this price range.
If you’re looking to have some good sipping whiskey around the house but don’t want to break the bank, check out these 5 bourbons you can enjoy on a budget!
The 8 Best Whiskeys For Your Old Fashioned
1. Coopers’ Craft Bourbon
Launched in 2016 by Brown-Forman to honor the Coopers, or cask makers, Coopers’ Craft Bourbon is the needle in the haystack. Brown-Forman also produces Woodford Reserve, Jack Daniel’s, and Old Forester, so Coopers’ Craft can get hidden behind all the big guys.
Well, I’m here to let you know that I’m taking CC over Jack and Old Forester, possibly even Woodford.
Coopers’ Craft is a Kentucky Bourbon, but it does take a page out of Tennessee Whiskey’s book. The Lincoln County Process, the process that turns a bourbon produced in Tennessee into a Tennessee Whiskey, is when whiskey is filtered through maple charcoal. Coopers’ Craft, on the other hand, is filtered through Beech and Birch Charcoal.
Notes of baked apple, lemon, honey, vanilla, and oak make this a tasteful bourbon, and at 82.2 proof, it’s an easy sipper.
- Aged a minimum of 4 years
- 82.2 proof
- 75% corn, 15% rye, 10% malted barley
- $20-25
Coopers Craft Bourbon Review
2. Fistful Of Bourbon
Fistful of Bourbon was William Grant & Sons introduction to bourbon back in 2018. They produce and own brands such as Balvenie, Tullamore Dew, Glenfiddich, Sailor Jerry, and many more.
Fistful of Bourbon is a blend of 5 straight bourbons, each bourbon representing a finger – 5 of which, make a fist. Each of these bourbons is intended to provide it’s own, unique flavor to the profile. They are as follows: Balanced and sweet, leafy and floral, soft spices with hints of nutmeg, buttery toffee, and cinnamon and licorice.
When I first sipped Fistful of Bourbon, I loved it. It was one of the more flavorful bourbons I’d ever had. It wasn’t super rich, but the flavors were nice and there was nothing harsh about it. The best part, for me, was the buttery, creamy mouthfeel.
For $25, there are few bourbons on the market that are as unique, flavorful, and pleasant as Fistful of Bourbon. Out of all the bourbons on this list, this may be my favorite to sip. I definitely had the most fun reviewing this.
- Each bourbon in the blend is aged a minimum of 2 years
- 90 proof, 45% ABV
- At least 51% corn mashbill
- $25
Fistful of Bourbon Review
3. Bulleit Bourbon
Bulleit Bourbon is a fan favorite. In the past 5 years, it has gone from a middle of the pack bourbon to one of the most frequently purchased whiskeys in the US, particularly among younger drinkers.
The reason for this, I think, is two-fold. First, it’s for the same reason that it’s on my list. It’s a cheap bourbon that works wonderfully in a cocktail while still being good enough to enjoy on it’s own.
Second, is the growth of rye whiskey. Rye whiskey has grown tremendously in the last couple years, and Bulleit uses a high-rye mashbill. For whatever reason, perhaps that rye whiskey is delicious, people have seemingly gravitated towards rye or high-rye bourbons in recent years.
Price MAY be an issue here. If you buy your liquor at a large retailer such as Total Wine, you’ll have no problem finding Bulleit for $25 or less. Local liquor stores may have it priced closer to $30 or above. See how Bulleit stacks up against Woodford Reserve below.
- Aged 4+ years, thought to be closer to 6
- 90 proof, 45% ABV
- 68% corn, 28% rye, 4% malted barley
- $23-33
Woodford Reserve vs Bulleit Bourbon
4. Redemption High Rye Bourbon
If it wasn’t clear before, I love rye whiskey and high rye bourbons. Redemption produces three whiskeys as part of their standard lineup, Bourbon, rye, and high rye bourbon. Their standard bourbon contains 21% rye, so Redemption makes it very clear that they are a rye forward company.
Redemption High Rye Bourbon contains a whopping 36% rye, and it shows on the palate.
Out of all the bourbon on the list, this may be my least favorite neat or on the rocks. It’s still solid, just a touch thinner than the others. It’s on this list because this may be the best out of all of them when it comes to making nice cocktails. If you’re looking for a good Old-Fashioned, use Redemption High Rye Bourbon.
$25 is the low end of what you’re going to find this whiskey at. Again, your best bet to find the lowest prices is to shop at the large retailers.
- Aged 2+ years
- 92 proof, 46% ABV
- 60% corn, 36% rye, 4% malted barley
- $25-30
Redemption Whiskey
5. Jim Beam: Original, Black, or Devil’s Cut
It’s weird to say that I think Jim Beam is one of the most underrated budget bourbons on the market. I mean, it’s one of the most popular whiskeys in the world, how can it be underrated? Well, among bourbon drinkers, it’s definitely seen as a budget, bottom shelf option. However, I like it more than Evan Williams and Jack, the two closest competitors of Beam
Now, the standard Jim Beam Bourbon (White Label) is pretty solid for less than $20, so that’s a good option. However, if we’re going to go up to $25 on this list, I might as well upgrade to Jim Beam Black or Devil’s Cut.
Jim Beam Devil’s Cut uses bourbon extracted from the walls of the barrels for extra oak, char, and barrel spice. The barrel extract, dubbed the devil’s share, is blended with Jim Beam Black (aged 8 years) to form Devil’s Cut.
Personally, Jim Beam Black is my favorite out of these three and less expensive than Devil’s Cut, so that’s my recommendation.
Honorable Mention
These are all bourbons that really deserve to be on this list, or at the least, would be acceptable on this list. However, they didn’t make it for one reason or another. Maybe it missed the mark by a couple dollars, maybe it’s really good but not my cup of tea.
Below are a couple more budget bourbons that are excellent options for around $25.
Buffalo Trace
This may be the best out of all the bourbons listed. MSRP is $25, but you’ll rarely find it priced here if you can find it at all. Buffalo Trace is likely playing into the supply and demand game here to drive demand.
Some may think it’s overhyped… well, okay it may be a little bit, but it’s still a damn fine bourbon for $25 – again, if you can find it at or close to that number.
This would certainly be on the main list if it weren’t for supply/demand/pricing issues.
Four Roses
I love Four Roses. The only reason this wasn’t in my top 5 is because their small batch, small batch select, and single barrel options are so good that I’d recommend paying the extra money for one of the premium options.
A 750ml bottle should be right around $20, so Four Roses has my full support as a great budget bourbon.
Larceny/Maker’s Mark
I’m putting these two together because they are both wheated bourbon. MM using 16% red winter wheat and Larceny at 20% wheat in the mashbill, these are sweeter, smoother options than what you’ll find with rye.
I love Maker’s Mark in a cocktail and Larceny is a great sipper if wheated bourbon is your thing. Both should be available right around $25.
Old Grand-Dad 114/Wild Turkey 101
These two are my high proof, budget bourbons. Old Grand Dad 114 may be closer to the $25-30 price range while WT 101 should be $25 and under, but both are good options if you’re looking for strength.
WT 101 isn’t my favorite, I find it a little thin, but I can’t deny the numerous people out there that love Wild Turkey. Also, a 101 proof bourbon for $20, whether it’s good or just average, deserves recognition.
Old Grand Dad 114 would be my preference here. There are a select number of stores and locations where you can find this for $22-25, but your probably looking closer to $25-30. Regardless, a 114 proof bourbon is going to be a cost effective buzz at any of these prices.
Summary
I drink a lot of whiskey, and my all-time favorites are usually closer to $50. I can get too attached to those favorites that I forget that there are plenty of good bourbons for much cheaper.
My list of my Top 5 Bourbons for $25 includes Coopers’ Craft Bourbon, Fistful of Bourbon, Bulleit, Redemption High Rye, and Jim Beam. Of those, I think Coopers’ Craft and Bulleit are the best all-around, Fistful of Bourbon is the best sipper, Redemption is the best for cocktails, and Jim Beam is the most budget friendly.
Obviously, budget friendly is a fairly subjective term. Some people will spend $8-12 on a bottle of bourbon and $25 is splurging. However, for anyone who prefers to spend less than $30 on a bottle of whiskey, this guide on the best bourbons for $25 will have something everyone will like.
If you agree, disagree, or have any other $25 favorites, let everyone know in the comments!
Early Times BIB is $19.25 after tax in my local store in Odessa, FL. That’s for a 1L bottle. This deserves a spot on the list.
This one right here! I’m pretty new to finding whiskeys I enjoy, but luckily found out early that I love the ET BiB. Always try to make sure I have one of these at the house.
How about as an also ran J. W. Dant Bottled-in-Bond ⁰
As a liquor retailer I have to call BS on some of you “MSRP” prices. For example, Bulleit’s wholesale price in a 5 case deal is $27.48 right now. Buffalo Trace, when we are able to purchase them are $28.50. Redemption is similarly priced. You might be able to find those prices in Kentucky, but you will find much higher prices in other states. All you are doing is causing people to get pissed off at their local liquor stores.
Did you read the article at all? Or simply glance at it? I specifically stated, for both Bulleit and Redemption, that price is a bit of an issue. I said that $25 is the low end of what you’ll find it at, and that’ll likely only be at large retailers such as Total Wine. I also left Buffalo Trace off the main list for price and availability issues.
Yep, you sure did! Good article.
I haven’t had it for a while, but Rebel Yell seemed to be a great choice mixed drinks.
He said $25 give or take a couple of bucks, right in line with what you’re paying no?
EZRA BROOKS nice and reasonably priced. Evan Williams is also tasty.Try it, you’ll like it!
THANK YOU! Especially three-tier states that distributors have to pay transport taxes TWICE and cover their overhead. Retailers can’t BUY it for what these people keep saying MSRP is. Really ticks me off!
I just bought buffalo trace for 39.99 plus tax and the owner said he usually sales it for more.. idk
Most BIB whiskeys are good and reasonably priced. Get into the media darling bourbon and you are supporting their child’s orthodontist and future ivy league school.
Weaker and sweeter doesn’t mean better.
For my taste, nothing is better than Old Grandad Bottled In Bond.
Oh, others have different nuances, and suggested glories, but those dessert like descriptions aren’t worth the money and frankly, the buzz, which is why we ultimately love bourbon.
Hey MARK, what store in Odessa? I live in Tampa and need that hookup!
This is BS. No way will you find these prices in Kentucky. I am the only store within 45 miles that is MSRP and I can’t do these prices. I agree with a comment above…..your just getting drinks especially new to bourbon excited. The truth they won’t find these at your price. Need to do more investigating and how many liquor stores are second market. This is a job
David, did you read the article? I have Bulleit from $23-33, and clearly stated that you’re looking closer to $30+ at local retailers. I said the same thing about Redemption, Buffalo Trace, and Old Grand Dad. I mentioned that most of these prices are only available at the large chains such as Total Wine.
Great article. I think too often that bourbon reviews and bourbon lovers, won’t even discuss these bourbons because they are too main stream or “bottom shelf”. I’m glad to see someone took the time to review them and acknowledge them. I also enjoy bourbon almost daily and love my Bulleit.
Thanks Jason,
I was trying to get a little bit of balance between popular options and less-known bourbon – a little something for everyone.
I have tried all of these except the fistfull.fistful.. I will have to check it out, I do love grandad 114, as far a prices everyone should know it is subjective, my state controls the liquor so it is more expensive, I can go to another state and get it for less.. love the article..
Let me know what you think when you do. Fistful is one of my absolute favorites for ~$25…. It’s not the best for cocktails, but it’s great to sip.
Larceny to me takes like rocket fuel. It’s way too harsh on its own. We have a bottle in our cabinet and it’s been there close to a year. We only use it for cocktails and then only if we’re low on other bourbon.
To be honest, I’m really not a huge fan of Larceny either. I thinks it’s okay, but I’m also not big into wheated bourbon. Had Larceny and MM on the list for those that are.
What’s your favorites at $50?
Tried for two weeks to get a bottle of Buffalo Trace, from two different store. Was told that it was “allocated”. Finally saw it (one bottle per transaction), for $37 & $39.99, so did get a bottle. Sipping one shot a week, because of the artificial “supply”/demand circumstances. Drives up the price for a bottle, so just rely on Bulleit that is plentiful & reasonably priced.
He said $25 give or take a couple of bucks, right in line with what you’re paying no?
For what it’s worth, I just left Louisville,KY and a local liquor store owner said Buffalo Trace is hard to get because their national distributor is being sued for failure to pay bills and they are having to rely on smaller local distributors. We did find it at the distillery in Frankfort for $27 a bottle. One bottle per customer but I realize not everyone can make it there haha
I love a good whiskey
Living in the Detroit Mich area I’d agree with the prices he stated for the most part. Buffalo Trace is about $27 at the local groceries stores and Larceny tends to run $28.
Redemption has been my choice over Bulleit. Seems to be smoother than most Rye’s and it passes the test over ice .
I’m a big fan of Jesse James Dupree’s American Outlaw Bourbon. It’s usually around $25… my local liquor store is showing it at $23. It’s evenly spiced, smooth, and blends well with mixers. Definitely worth a try if you haven’t yet.
For inexpensive I like Ezra Brooks 99, Evan Williams BiB, OGD BiB & Elijah Craig. I always try to keep these in stock. Haven’t been able to find OGD 114 for at least a year & OGD BiB availability is spotty. I drink Old Fashions & have about 20 different bourbons.
I’ve tried every one of the bourbons listed, and some much more expensive, and I always come back to Makers Mark. It’s consistently smooth and flavorful. And I only sip bourbon “on the rocks”
Retired, relying on SS and living in a gated 55+ community in Fort Myers,Fl and thought the prices of pretty much all the whiskeys/bourbons mentioned would be bargains compared to the inflated prices we pay. Our prices make those whiskeys/bourbons “upper shelf” it seems.
Yep. Buffalo Trace store price (when you can luck upon it) is in $40-45 range, so I just don’t bother anymore. Will rely on stash, and when depleted, just try to find everyday reasonable substitute.
Don’t care for the regular rye whiskeys but the high rye mash bills makes for a very nice drink either straight or mixed. Rediscovered my college attraction to Old Grandad a few years ago. After being pilloried by my children for drinking cheap whiskey I recently upgraded to Bulleit for not a whole lot more $. Besides the bottle mascarades as an upscale brand so I don’t get beat up. Appreciate your reinforcement and comparison with Woodford.
Four Roses all the way!!
Try Elijah Craig or Jefferson small batch, both 25 to 30 bucks.
I’m a big fan of Elijah Craig. I thought about putting this in the honorable mention category, but went for Buffalo Trace and Four Roses instead.
Mark, agree completely. I think some people are forgetting that alcohol tax varies by state and that drives up the prices as well. Great article and spot on. I personally love bullet in an old fashioned cocktail and Buffalo trace sipped on the rocks. I am not a huge fan of high wheat bourbon myself.
I think you would be hard pressed to find a better Bourbon for $20 (or less) than Evan Williams BiB. It recently won an award at the SF Whiskey Competition. It has all the flavors a Bourbon should have and none you dint want.
I just posted a review of Evan Williams BiB yesterday, and I said that it should take Beam’s place on this list… Definitely deserving, especially for the $18 I paid for it.
Luke, I just picked up Fistful yesterday because I am looking for a solid $25 bottle, and here I read your review today. You are spot on! The mouth feel is rich, and it is wonderfully unique.
It’s one of my absolute favorites for the price. Doesn’t make the best cocktail, but a wonderful sipper for $25 that’s just a little different than your typical bourbon
In Memphis got half gallon old forester $40 out the door Bouleit $46 Buffalo Trace 30 Eagle Rare 43 out the door