Top 5 Bourbons Under $50: The Ultimate Budget-Friendly Sippers 🥃🔥

Over the last three weeks, we’ve been rolling out our top bourbons under $50, one by one. After much debate (and a whole lot of tasting), we’re excited to share the full list.

Each of these bottles proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy phenomenal bourbon. Whether you’re sipping neat, mixing up a cocktail, or just stocking your bar without going broke, these picks deliver big flavor for the price.

🥇 1. Wild Turkey 101 🦃🔥

Why it’s a steal:

• High proof (50.5% ABV) without a harsh bite.

• Classic caramel, vanilla, and spice flavors.

• Versatile: Great neat, on the rocks, or in an Old Fashioned.

This bourbon doesn’t back down. It’s got heat, spice, and just enough sweetness to keep you coming back. If bourbon had an MVP award for value, Wild Turkey 101 would be in the Hall of Fame.

🏆 2. Elijah Craig Small Batch 🏅🥃

Why it’s a standout:

• Rich, full-bodied, and balanced.

• Notes of toasted oak, vanilla, and warm baking spices.

• Aged longer than most in its price range.

Heaven Hill knows what they’re doing. This bourbon is the best “sipping by the fire” bottle you can get for under $50. Deep, rich, and almost too good for the price tag.

🦬 3. Buffalo Trace 💎

Why it’s a classic:

• Smooth, mellow, and approachable.

• Butterscotch, caramel, and a hint of spice.

• Perfect for beginners and seasoned bourbon lovers alike.

The downside? Buffalo Trace is getting harder to find. If you spot a bottle for under $50, snag it.

🌹 4. Four Roses Small Batch 🌹🥀

Why it’s worth sipping:

• Blend of high-rye and low-rye bourbons for balance.

• Soft floral notes with honey and spice.

• A silky, smooth finish that lingers.

This is a bourbon for those who love elegance over intensity. If Wild Turkey 101 is a rock concert, Four Roses Small Batch is a jazz lounge.

🏅 5. Old Forester 100 💥

Why it’s underrated:

• Full of character with hints of chocolate, caramel, and spice.

• Bottled at 100 proof for extra richness.

• Fantastic neat or in cocktails.

Old Forester 100 is a workhorse bourbon that delivers way more than its price suggests. If you haven’t tried it yet, fix that mistake ASAP.

📢 Time to Vote for Your Favorite Bourbon!

Now that you’ve read our list, it’s time for you to weigh in!

✅ Vote in the poll below and tell us which bourbon deserves the crown.

💬 Did we miss your favorite? Let’s start a discussion on our Facebook page! Share your go-to budget bourbon and tell us why we need to add it to the list.

 Join the conversation on Facebook 👉 Facebook Discussion

🥃 The Art of Mixing: Kentucky Derby Cocktail Edition 🐎🌿

The Kentucky Derby may be a couple of months away, but it’s never too early to start planning the perfect bourbon cocktail. Sure, the Mint Julep is the traditional favorite—but let’s shake things up this year.

Meet the Bluegrass Smash—a Southern twist on a classic whiskey smash. It's fresh, slightly sweet, and dangerously drinkable.

🥃 Bluegrass Smash Recipe

🛠️ What You Need:

• 2 oz bourbon (Wild Turkey 101 works great!)

• ¾ oz honey syrup (equal parts honey & hot water)

• ½ oz fresh lemon juice

• 4-5 fresh mint leaves

• 2 dashes Angostura bitters

• Crushed ice

🔹 How to Make It:

1. Muddle the mint leaves with honey syrup and lemon juice in a shaker.

2. Add bourbon, bitters, and ice. Shake it like you mean it.

3. Strain over crushed ice in a rocks glass.

4. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig and (optional) a lemon wheel.

👀 Pro Tip: Slap the mint between your hands before garnishing. It releases the oils and makes your drink smell as good as it tastes.

This cocktail is light, refreshing, and dangerously easy to drink—perfect for Derby Day or any warm afternoon.

🧐 What’s Next? Becoming a Bourbon Connoisseur

On the horizon, we’ll be diving into what separates a casual bourbon drinker from a true connoisseur.

• Are you just enjoying bourbon, or are you becoming an expert?

• How do you know if you’ve made the leap?

• What should be your next step in bourbon mastery?

Stay tuned—this one’s gonna be a game-changer. 🥃🔥

P.S. – Join The Bourbon Society

Want exclusive bourbon content, discounts, and a quarterly print edition?

Join The Bourbon Society Reserve or The Bourbon Society Select and get premium perks.

👉 Check it out here: Bourbon Society Membership

Until next time—keep your glass full and your bourbon budget smart.

Cheers,
Ethan "Neat" Whitmore

📩 Share & Join the Conversation!

🔹 Tag your bourbon-loving friends—let’s get their votes in!
🔹 Share this article with fellow whiskey enthusiasts.
🔹 Tell us on Facebook: How did you first get into bourbon?

Drop a comment, vote in the poll, and let’s talk bourbon! 🥃🔥