The Best Bourbons Under $25, According to Bartenders

Evan Williams Bottled in Bond

At around $17 a bottle, Evan Williams Bottled in Bond is one of the best “bang-for-your-buck” choices in whiskey. This whiskey is made by the Heaven Hill distillery, following strict bottled-in-bond regulations. That means that it’s aged for at least four years, produced by a single distillery in one distillation season, and bottled at 100 proof. 

“The flavor profile is rich with caramel, vanilla, and oak, accompanied by a hint of spice on the finish,” says Kirk. “Its high proof makes it ideal for cocktails, adding depth to an Old Fashioned or Manhattan without overpowering the drink.” 

Old Forester 100 Proof

Founded in 1870, Old Forester is the oldest continuously produced bourbon brand in the United States. More than 150 years after George Garvin Brown founded the brand, it still makes quality, affordable whiskeys. Old Forester 100 Proof has become a favorite among mixologists due to its higher proof, full-bodied flavor, and affordability. 

“Old Forester 100 proof is a rich and spicy whiskey, and holds up to cocktails such as the Manhattan,” says Lynnette Marrero, co-founder of Speed Rack and partner and chief mixologist at Delola. “This one is surprisingly subtle for the ABV and adds a great flavor and aroma to mixed cocktails, while being great in standard whiskey-stirred cocktails.”

Wild Turkey 101

Wild Turkey 101 is a cult classic among bourbon drinkers. During bourbon’s lean years, from the 1970s through the ’90s, master distiller Jimmy Russell insisted that Wild Turkey 101 be made in the same way it had been since before Prohibition. Wild Turkey 101 remains one of the purest expressions of Kentucky bourbon available, and for only about $23.

“It captures more barrel character, which shines through in the toasted oak, caramel, and vanilla notes, with a hint of spice from the high rye content,” says Kirk. “At 101 proof, it holds up well in cocktails, but is also enjoyable neat or on the rocks. Its robust character pairs especially well in a Whiskey Sour or Boulevardier.”

Benchmark Full Proof

From the storied Buffalo Trace Distillery comes Benchmark Full Proof. Typically under $25, this bourbon packs a punch. At 125 proof, this expression is as full-bodied, strong, and flavorful as many bourbons that regularly cost up to three times as much. 

“This bourbon offers remarkable intensity for the price, with flavors of dark fruit, brown sugar, and a peppery spice finish,” says Kirk. “The higher proof makes it versatile for bold cocktails, like the Boulevardier, or it can be enjoyed with a splash of water to open up its complex layers.”

Old Grand-Dad Bonded

Another bottled-in-bond bourbon, this offering from James B. Beam Distilling packs a ton of classic bourbon flavor into an affordable and accessible bottle. 

“Old Grand-Dad is a whiskey that surprisingly skews sweet, despite its proof,” says Marrero. 

Sweetness isn’t the only thing going on with Old Grand-Dad Bonded. “This whiskey delivers flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and citrus peel, balanced with caramel and vanilla sweetness,” says Kirk. “Its intense flavors and proof make it ideal for cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Whiskey Smash, standing up to mixers without losing its character.” 

Four Roses

Long overlooked in the U.S., Four Roses has become a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts and bartenders over the last few decades. The distillery uses two different mash bills and five yeast strains to create 10 unique “recipes,” or different bourbons, from which to blend. The core expression, often referred to as “yellow label,” blends all 10 recipes to create a balanced, 80-proof whiskey that displays the trademark Four Roses profile.

Four Roses has a gentler, floral, fruity aroma that’s backed up by a balanced palate full of classic bourbon flavors like vanilla, caramel, red apple, and a light baking spice. At 80 proof, it might not be stiff enough to stand up in certain cocktails, but as the base for an Old Fashioned or poured neat, it’s guaranteed to provide an easy, fulfilling sip.

Jim Beam Double Oak Twice Barreled

It’s hard to match the stature of Jim Beam’s classic white label — it’s the best-selling bourbon in the world, after all. But the black-labeled Jim Beam Double Oak Twice Barreled gives its sibling a run for its money on flavor. This variation, priced around $23, goes through a secondary aging process in different barrels, which doubles down on toasty notes of vanilla, caramel, and baking spice.

“The flavor profile leans toward sweet caramel, vanilla, and a touch of smokiness, with hints of toasted wood,” says Kirk. “At 86 proof, it’s smooth and balanced, ideal for sipping or for cocktails where a touch of sweetness and wood influence is desired, like a Mint Julep or Manhattan.”