If you are a bourbon lover on a budget, you may be tempted to pick up a cheap bottle of bourbon off the shelf. However, not all budget bourbons are created equal. Some of them are downright undrinkable. In this article, we will explore the top 10 worst cheap bourbons that you should avoid at all costs.
When it comes to cheap bourbons, there are a few brands that are notorious for producing low-quality products. Whether you are a seasoned bourbon drinker or a newcomer to the world of whiskey, it is important to know which bourbons to avoid. In the following sections, we will take a closer look at the top 10 worst cheap bourbons that you should steer clear of if you want to enjoy a good glass of bourbon.
Table of Contents
Understanding Cheap Bourbons
When it comes to bourbon, you don’t always have to break the bank to enjoy a good drink. Cheap bourbons can be a great option for those on a budget or for those who are new to the world of bourbon and want to try it out without spending too much money.
However, it’s important to understand that not all cheap bourbons are created equal. Some may have lower-quality of ingredients or may not be aged for as long as more expensive options. This can result in a less complex flavor profile and a harsher taste.
When shopping for cheap bourbons, it’s important to keep in mind that price doesn’t always indicate quality. Some affordable options can still provide a smooth and enjoyable drinking experience.
To help you navigate the world of cheap bourbons, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Look for bourbons with a higher percentage of corn in the mash bill. This can result in a sweeter and smoother taste.
- Pay attention to the age statement. While not always an indicator of quality, bourbons that have been aged for longer periods of time tend to have a more complex flavor profile.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands and styles. Everyone’s taste preferences are different, so what may be a favorite for one person may not be for another.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can find a cheap bourbon that suits your taste preferences without sacrificing quality.
Top 10 Worst Cheap Bourbons
When it comes to bourbon, you don’t always get what you pay for. There are plenty of cheap bourbons on the market that are just downright bad. Here are the top 10 worst cheap bourbons that you should avoid at all costs.
1. David Nicholson 1843
photo credit: davidnicholsonbourbon.com
David Nicholson 1843 is a cheap bourbon that doesn’t live up to its name. It’s harsh and has a strong alcohol taste. The flavor is one-dimensional and lacks the complexity that you would expect from a good bourbon. It’s best to avoid this one
2. Cabin Still
photo credit: www.totalwine.com
Cabin Still is another cheap bourbon that you should steer clear of. It has a strong chemical taste that is off-putting. The flavor is not well-balanced and lacks the depth that you would expect from a good bourbon.
3. Jesse James Bourbon
photo credit: images.squarespace-cdn.com
Jesse James Bourbon is a cheap bourbon that is marketed as a premium product. Don’t be fooled by the fancy packaging, though. This bourbon is not worth the money. It has a harsh, bitter taste and lacks the smoothness that you would expect from a good bourbon.
4. Kentucky Gentleman Bourbon
photo credit: wikimedia.org
Kentucky Gentleman Bourbon is a cheap bourbon that is not very gentle on the palate. It has a strong alcohol taste and lacks the complexity that you would expect from a good bourbon. It’s best to avoid this one.
5. Hudson Bright Lights, Big Bourbon Whiskey
photo credit: www.hudsonwhiskey.com
Hudson Bright Lights, Big Bourbon Whiskey is a cheap bourbon that is not very bright or big on flavor. It has a harsh, bitter taste that is not well-balanced. The flavor lacks the depth that you would expect from a good bourbon.
6. Union Horse White Bourbon Whiskey
photo credit: static.wixstatic.com
Union Horse White Bourbon Whiskey is a cheap bourbon that is not well aged. It has a strong alcohol taste and lacks the smoothness that you would expect from a good bourbon. The flavor is not well-balanced and lacks the complexity that you would expect from a good bourbon.
7. Benchmark Old No. 8 Brand
photo credit: ludwigsfinewine.com
Benchmark Old No. 8 Brand is a cheap bourbon that is not worth the money. It has a harsh, bitter taste and lacks the smoothness that you would expect from a good bourbon. The flavor is one-dimensional and lacks the complexity that you would expect from a good bourbon.
8. Town Branch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
photo credit: lexingtonbrewingco.com
Town Branch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a cheap bourbon that is not well aged. It has a strong alcohol taste and lacks the smoothness that you would expect from a good bourbon. The flavor is not well-balanced and lacks the complexity that you would expect from a good bourbon.
9. Winchester Extra Smooth Bourbon
photo credit: www.totalwine.com
Winchester Extra Smooth Bourbon is a cheap bourbon that is not very smooth. It has a harsh, bitter taste and lacks the complexity that you would expect from a good bourbon. The flavor is one-dimensional and lacks the depth that you would expect from a good bourbon.
10. Old Fitzgerald Prime Bourbon
photo credit: drizly.com
Old Fitzgerald Prime Bourbon is a cheap bourbon that is not worth the money. It has a strong alcohol taste and lacks the smoothness that you would expect from a good bourbon. The flavor is not well-balanced and lacks the complexity that you would expect from a good bourbon.
Common Flaws in Cheap Bourbons
When it comes to cheap bourbons, there are some common flaws that you should be aware of. Here are a few things to look out for when shopping for a budget-friendly bourbon:
Lack of Complexity
One of the biggest issues with cheap bourbons is that they often lack complexity. This means that the flavors and aromas are simple and one-dimensional. You may notice that the bourbon tastes like nothing more than sweet corn or vanilla, without any of the subtle nuances that you would find in a higher-end bourbon.
Harshness
Another common flaw in cheap bourbons is its harshness. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including a lack of aging or the use of lower-quality grains. When a bourbon is harsh, it can be difficult to drink and may even burn your throat.
Thin Mouthfeel
Cheap bourbons often have a thin mouthfeel, which means that they lack the rich, silky texture that you would find in a more expensive bourbon. This can be a result of the bourbon being watered down or having a lower proof.
Unbalanced Flavors
Finally, cheap bourbons may have unbalanced flavors. This means that one flavor or aroma may dominate the bourbon, making it difficult to taste anything else. For example, you may taste nothing but oak or smoke, without any of the sweetness or spice that you would expect from a bourbon.
Conclusion
When it comes to cheap bourbons, there are definitely some options that you should avoid. Based on our research, we have compiled a list of the top 10 worst cheap bourbons that you should steer clear of.
Remember, everyone’s taste preferences are different, so just because we don’t recommend a certain bourbon doesn’t mean you won’t enjoy it. It’s all about finding what you like and sticking with it.
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