If you are a bourbon lover on a budget, you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a smooth and flavorful bourbon. With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 best bourbons under $100 to help you find the perfect bottle for your taste buds and wallet.

How to Choose a Quality Bourbon

When it comes to choosing a quality bourbon, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect bottle:

1. Determine your flavor preferences

Bourbon can have a wide range of flavors, from sweet and fruity to spicy and smoky. Before you start your search, think about what kind of flavors you enjoy. Do you prefer a sweeter bourbon with notes of vanilla and caramel? Or do you like something with a bit more spice and heat? Knowing your preferences will help you narrow down your options.

2. Check the age statement

The age statement on a bottle of bourbon tells you how long the whiskey has been aged in barrels. Generally speaking, the longer a bourbon has been aged, the more complex and flavorful it will be. Look for bourbons with an age statement of at least four years.

3. Consider the proof

The proof of a bourbon refers to its alcohol content. Higher proof bourbons will have a stronger, more intense flavor, while lower proof bourbons will be smoother and more mellow. Consider your own tolerance for alcohol and your flavor preferences when choosing a bourbon based on its proof.

4. Read reviews

Before you make a purchase, take the time to read reviews from other bourbon enthusiasts. Look for reviews that describe the flavor profile of the bourbon and give an honest assessment of its quality. This can help you make an informed decision and avoid disappointment.

Top 10 Best Bourbons Under $100

If you’re looking for a great bourbon that won’t break the bank, you’re in luck. There are plenty of excellent bourbons available for under $100. Here are our top 10 picks.

photo credit: 1792bourbon.com

1. 1792 Full Proof

This high-proof bourbon is a great value at around $70. It’s full-bodied and complex, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice. It’s also surprisingly smooth for a bourbon with such a high alcohol content.

photo credit: www.knobcreek.com

2. Knob Creek 12 Year

Knob Creek 12 Year is a delicious vanilla-forward bourbon with tons of richness and character. It’s like regular Knob Creek on steroids, thanks to the extra few years it spends in the barrel. At around $70-80, it’s a bit pricier than some of the other bourbons on this list, but it’s worth the extra cost.

photo credit: canawineco.com

3. Stagg Jr.

Stagg Jr. is a barrel-proof bourbon that packs a punch. It’s rich and complex, with notes of dark fruit, caramel, and oak. It’s not for the faint of heart, but if you’re a fan of bold, flavorful bourbons, you’ll love this one. It’s priced at around $70.

photo credit: elijahcraig.com

4. Elijah Craig Barrel Proof

Elijah Craig Barrel Proof is another high-proof bourbon that’s full of flavor. It’s aged for 12 years and bottled at barrel strength, which means it’s not watered down at all. It’s a bit pricier than some of the other bourbons on this list, at around $90, but it’s worth it if you’re a fan of bold, flavorful bourbons.

photo credit: www.singlemalt.ph

5. Maker’s Mark 46 Cask Strength

Maker’s Mark 46 Cask Strength is a limited edition bourbon that’s aged for 9 years and bottled at cask strength. It’s a bit sweeter than some of the other bourbons on this list, with notes of fruit, vanilla, maple, chocolate, and spice. It’s priced at around $70.

photo credit: www.fourrosesbourbon.com

6. Four Roses Small Batch Select

Four Roses Small Batch Select is a newer addition to the Four Roses lineup, and it’s quickly become a fan favorite. It’s a blend of 6-7-year-old bourbons, and it’s bottled at a higher proof than the standard Small Batch. It’s priced at around $60.

photo credit: thechampagnecompany.com

7. W.L. Weller Antique 107

W.L. Weller Antique 107 is a wheated bourbon that’s aged for 7 years and bottled at 107 proof. It’s a bit hard to find, but if you can get your hands on a bottle, it’s definitely worth it. It’s priced at around $100.

photo credit: www.wildturkeybourbon.com

8. Wild Turkey Rare Breed

Wild Turkey Rare Breed is a blend of 6, 8, and 12-year-old bourbons, and it’s bottled at barrel proof. It’s a bit spicy and a bit sweet, with notes of honey, almonds, and spice. It’s priced at around $50.

photo credit: cdn.accentuate.io

9. Belle Meade Reserve

Belle Meade Reserve is a blend of bourbons aged between 7 and 11 years. It’s a bit sweeter than some of the other bourbons on this list, with notes of caramel, stone fruits, vanilla, and honey. It’s priced around $70-80.

photo credit: www.russellsreserve.com

10. Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon

Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel Bourbon is a 10-year-old bourbon that’s bottled at 110 proof. It’s rich and complex, with notes of toffee, vanilla, and oak. It’s priced at around $60.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect bourbon can be a difficult task, but with this list, you can find a great bourbon that won’t break the bank.

There are many great bourbons under $100 to choose from. Whether you prefer a classic bourbon or something unique, this list has something for everyone. Remember to drink responsibly and enjoy your bourbon in moderation.

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