The Best Bourbon Under $50 to Try or Gift
The 10 Best Tequila Blanco to Try This Year from Taster’s Club
The Best Bourbon Under $50
to Try or Gift
Written by Taster's Club Internal Team | Update April 2025
Bourbon is beloved for its rich history, diverse flavors, and the craftsmanship that goes into each bottle.
But enjoying high-quality bourbon doesn’t have to break the bank.
Whether you’re an experienced bourbon lover or you’re searching for the perfect gift, this expert-curated guide will highlight the best bourbons under $50. All offering incredible flavor, character, and value.
The Top 10 Bourbons Under $50
Here’s our carefully curated list of affordable bourbons, each chosen for its unique story, flavor profile, and craft.
1. Angel’s Envy Bourbon Port Cask Finish
Finished in port barrels, Angel’s Envy is a bourbon that combines traditional craftsmanship with a unique aging process. After maturing in charred American oak barrels, it undergoes a secondary aging in Portuguese port wine barrels, imparting a rich, complex flavor with hints of vanilla, ripe fruit, and subtle spices. Perfect as a thoughtful gift for whiskey enthusiasts or for celebrating life’s special moments.
Tasting Notes: Angel’s Envy offers a rich and layered flavor profile. On the nose, you'll find sweet vanilla, toasted oak, caramel, and subtle notes of dried fruit. The palate is smooth and complex with flavors of ripe stone fruits, maple syrup, baking spices, and a hint of chocolate. The port wine finish adds a velvety texture, making each sip feel luxurious. The finish is long and warming with lingering notes of toffee and soft spice.
Region: Kentucky, USA | ABV: 43.3% | 750ml
Purchase Angel’s Envy Bourbon Port Cask Finish
2. Penelope Wheated Bourbon
Penelope crafts their bourbon with deep attention to detail, producing a whiskey that is both inviting and sophisticated. This expression is approachable enough for newcomers, offering a smooth and easy-drinking profile, yet layered with complexity to engage seasoned whiskey enthusiasts.
Tasting Notes: Rich aromas of vanilla, caramel, toasted oak, and subtle spices greet the nose. The palate is smooth and balanced, with creamy vanilla, warm cinnamon, honey, and a touch of orange zest. It finishes with lingering sweet spice, oak char, and gentle warmth.
Region: Kentucky, USA | ABV: 47.5% | 750ml
Purchase Penelope Wheated Bourbon
3. Redemption Bourbon
Redemption Bourbon stands out with its bold high-rye mash bill at 36% rye. Giving it a distinctive kick loved by many. It revives the rye-forward bourbon styles of pre-Prohibition America with a commitment to tradition and quality. Using a precise distillation process, the bourbon is aged in new charred American oak barrels to achieve its deep flavor profile.
Tasting Notes: On the nose you’ll enjoy crisp rye spice mixed with hints of honey and a touch of citrus. The palate offers a blend of caramel, vanilla, and orange peel. The finish is spicy yet satisfying, with lingering notes of pepper.
Region: Indiana, USA | ABV: 44.0% | 750ml
Purchase Redemption Bourbon
4. 2XO American Oak Bourbon
This bourbon is created by the renowned Dixon Dedman, who is well-known in the whiskey world for his expertise and legacy as a fifth-generation distiller. 2XO American Oak Bourbon is aged in two separate barrels, with the second oak cask adding strong flavors while refining the overall smoothness of the finish.
Tasting Notes: The nose opens with inviting aromas of toasted oak, vanilla, and a hint of sweet baking spices. The palate is rich and creamy with layers of caramel, brown sugar and dark chocolate. The finish is smooth with light notes of toasted oak and cocoa.
Region: Kentucky, USA | ABV: 46.0% | 750ml
Purchase 2XO American Oak Bourbon
5. Woodford Reserve Straight Bourbon
Woodford Reserve stands out as a top choice for bourbon enthusiasts. It’s produced at one of Kentucky's oldest distilleries, the Woodford Reserve. Unlike many brands, this bourbon utilizes a unique triple-distillation method in copper pot stills. A technique known to enhance smoothness and add complexity. The bourbon is then aged in handcrafted charred oak barrels, which are toasted before charring.
Tasting Notes: On the nose you’ll begin with vibrant citrus and warm cinnamon, complemented by hints of dried fruit and spice. The palate opens with layers of richness with cocoa, toffee, and a touch of oak. The finish is long with lingering notes of spice.
Region: Kentucky, USA | ABV: 45.2% | 750ml
Purchase Woodford Reserve Straight Bourbon
6. Wyoming Small Batch Bourbon
Wyoming Small Batch Bourbon stands out as an amazing budget-friendly bourbon. What makes it unique is its small-batch process. The distillery uses locally sourced grains and pure mountain water to create a product that’s authentically Wyoming. After fermentation, the bourbon is distilled in traditional copper stills to develop its distinct character before being aged in new, charred American oak barrels.
Tasting Notes: On the nose you’ll start with floral honey and toasted vanilla notes that mingle with subtle hints of oak. The palate opens with rich notes of butterscotch and a warm cinnamon spice. The finish is well-rounded with notes of sweet vanilla.
Region: Wyoming, USA | ABV: 44.0% | 750ml
Purchase Wyoming Small Batch Bourbon
7. 1792 Small Batch
Crafted in the heart of Kentucky, 1792 Small Batch Bourbon is a standout spirit known for its “high rye” recipe and exceptional craftsmanship. This bourbon whiskey underwent a unique filtering process, forgoing the typical chill filtration and passing only through a plate and frame filter. This method allowed the bourbon to maintain a robust proof for bottling, delivering a full, rich, and bold flavor. It’s bottled at its original 125 barrel entry proof, just as it was years ago when the barrels were first filled.
Tasting Notes: The aroma opens with sweet vanilla, toasted oak, and subtle baking spices. On the palate, rich caramel and butterscotch blend with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of peppery rye spice for balance. The finish is long and satisfying, with lingering dried fruit and oak.
Region: Kentucky, USA | ABV: 46.85% | 750ml
Purchase 1792 Small Batch
8. Larceny Small Batch
Larceny Bourbon stands out as a unique choice thanks to its rich history and unique profile. Unlike traditional bourbons that use rye, Larceny replaces it with soft wheat. This gives it a smoother taste with a subtle sweetness. It’s aged in new charred oak barrels, allowing its flavors to develop fully over the years. Which makes it a perfect option for both seasoned bourbon enthusiasts and those new to the spirit.
Tasting Notes: Rich aromas of buttery caramel, honey, and vanilla open on the nose. The palate reveals layers of toasty oak with a touch of dried fruit. The finish is smooth and gentle, with a pleasant sweetness and a lingering warmth that leaves a lasting impression.
Region: Kentucky, USA | ABV: 46.0% | 750ml
Purchase Larceny Small Batch
9. Doc Holliday Bottled in Bond Limited Edition
This limited-edition bourbon is a true tribute to history and craftsmanship of a long-time distillery. What sets this bourbon apart is its detailed creation process. It’s aged for a minimum of 4 years in newly charred American oak barrels. This bourbon bottle also adheres to the stringent Bottled in Bond standards which ensures a high quality whiskey.
Tasting Notes: On the nose you’ll experience aromas of vanilla, charred oak, and hints of dried fruit. The palate is full-bodied, providing layers of creamy vanilla, toasted oak, and notes of dried cherries. The finish is bold yet well-balanced with a gentle warmth.
Region: Georgia, USA | ABV: 50.0% | 750ml
Purchase Doc Holliday Bottled in Bond Limited Edition
10. Elijah Craig Small Batch
Elijah Craig, known as the father of bourbon, was a leader in whiskey-making with the use of charred oak barrels, which gives bourbon its unique flavor. This small batch bourbon is crafted with a mash of corn, rye, and malted barley, then aged in charred American white oak barrels to develop rich notes of vanilla, caramel, and smokiness. Aged 8 to 12 years, it achieves a perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and depth, This leads it to be a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts.
Tasting Notes: This drink invites you with an aroma of vanilla bean, caramel, and subtle hints of spice. Its flavor profile is rich and complex with nutmeg features, toasted oak, and hints of sweet brown sugar. The finish is warm with a lasting touch of smoke.
Region: Kentucky, USA | ABV: 47.0% | 750ml
Purchase Elijah Craig Small BatchHow We Select the Best Bourbon
We tasted an impressive array of good bourbon whiskey from today’s top producers, guided by decades of experience and an unwavering commitment to quality and affordability for this specific list. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the criteria we use to identify the best bourbon whiskey:
Quality of Ingredients and Distillation Methods
Bourbon whiskey is an American spirit that has strict guidelines to ensure its authenticity. To qualify as bourbon, it must be made from at least 51% corn, distilled to no more than 160 proof, and bottled at a minimum of 80 proof. No additives are allowed except water to adjust the proof.
At Taster’s Club, we believe that a good bourbon whiskey starts with great ingredients. We carefully select the best bourbon whiskey, featuring unique mash bills like wheat bourbon, high rye bourbon, high corn bourbon, or 4-grain bourbon. We also prioritize distilleries that go above and beyond using premium, non-GMO ingredients, ensuring a rich and consistent flavor with every bottle.
In addition to high-quality grains, many bourbon whiskey brands enhance their spirits with limestone-filtered water, which is naturally abundant in classic bourbon-producing regions like Kentucky. This water helps improve the fermentation process, contributing to the smooth, clean character of our best bourbon whiskey.
Aging Process and Barrel Selection
The aging process plays a crucial role when selecting the best bourbon whiskey. With this bourbon guide, we prioritize bourbons that have been aged for at least two years, including varieties like small batch bourbon, cask strength bourbon, wheated bourbon, Bottled in Bond, and barrel-finished bourbon. Bourbon whiskey brands typically use new charred oak barrels, which impart rich flavors of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak while also giving the bourbon its signature amber color.
The climate in which the bourbon matures is equally important, as regions with fluctuating temperatures allow the whiskey to interact more deeply with the wood, resulting in a more complex flavor profile. While longer aging often enhances the richness of the flavors, we recognize that great bourbon whiskey doesn’t always require extended time in the barrel.
Regional Influence on Flavor and Style
Scotch whiskies are shaped by the regions they come from, with each area known for particular flavors and styles. For instance, Islay Scotch is known for its smoky, peaty character due to the use of peat fires in the drying process, while Speyside Scotch is often more fruit-forward with subtle sweetness.
On the other hand, highland whiskies vary from light and floral to rich and full-bodied, while Campbeltown Scotch often has a briny, coastal character. We take regional styles into account, aiming to include a variety of flavors so you can explore the differences and discover what is the best Scotch whisky for your personal taste.
Brand Reputation and Legacy
All of the best bourbon whiskey we feature are hand-crafted by award-winning distilleries in the U.S., with a focus on delivering exceptional flavors and experiences. Whether it's a distillery steeped in tradition or one pushing the boundaries of innovation, every spirit in our Bourbon Bottle Shop.
Price-to-Quality Ratio
While some of the best bourbon whiskey commands premium prices, we understand that value matters. Many good bourbon whiskey options offer exceptional quality at an accessible price. Our selection considers a range of budgets, ensuring that every enthusiast can find a bourbon worth savoring.
How to Find the Perfect Bourbon Whiskey
Finding the right bourbon whiskey that perfectly suits your palate doesn’t have to be some difficult or expensive journey.
By joining the Bourbon Club from Taster's Club, this subscription service introduces you to an incredible variety of bourbons, ranging from timeless classics to rare and unique expressions.
Each month, you’ll receive a thoughtfully curated bottle, accompanied by fascinating insights into bourbon, its distillery, and production techniques.
The Membership Club gives you the opportunity to test and try some of the best Bourbon the USA has to offer, at your own pace.
Bourbon Lovers, This Is Your Club
Join the club that brings you expertly selected bourbons you won’t find on every shelf. Discover something new every month.
Bourbon Lovers, This Is Your Club
Join the club that brings you expertly selected bourbons you won’t find on every shelf. Discover something new every month.
Elevate Your Bourbon Journey
If you’re ready to elevate your tasting experience, head over to Taster’s Club to discover our curated bourbon selections. Explore the finest bottles today!
Or check out our other bourbon resources:
- Types of Bourbon and the Best Ways to Enjoy Them
- The 12 Best Best Bourbon Whiskey: Small Batch, Wheated, & More
- The Best Bourbon Glasses: Buyers Guide
- Father’s Day Spirits Gift Guide
Commonly Asked Questions
What Is The Best Way To Drink Bourbon?
There’s no right or wrong way to drink bourbon. Enjoy it neat to appreciate its full complexity, add a splash of water to open up its flavors, or try it on the rocks for a chilled experience. Bourbon is also a fantastic base for cocktails like an Old Fashioned or Whiskey Sour.
How Do I Choose Bourbon As a Gift?
For newer bourbon drinkers, approachable options like Woodford Reserve or Elijah Craig offer smooth and friendly flavors that are suited well for beginners.
When choosing a gift for a bourbon lover, consider their experience level and personal taste. Choose bourbons with complexity or rarity, such as Four Roses Single Barrel which is known for its nuanced flavor profile. Limited-edition or small-batch releases add a touch of exclusivity.
Or, for a truly unique gift, check out our Bourbon of the Month Club, with bourbon selections and 3-month prepay options. It’s the perfect gift option!
How is Bourbon Different from Whiskey?
Bourbon and whiskey are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct differences that make each unique.
Bourbon is a type of whiskey. For it to have the name "bourbon," it must adhere to specific legal requirements. For example, bourbon must be distilled in the United States and made from at least 51% corn, which gives it a natural sweetness.
Additionally, it must be aged in new charred oak barrels, contributing to its rich, oaky flavor profile. While all bourbons are whiskeys, not all whiskeys are bourbons.
Discover the Other Affordable Spirits
Make Every Month a Bourbon Adventure with The Bourbon Club
At Taster’s Club, pursuing the best bourbon whiskey becomes an exciting adventure, and our list of the best bourbon whiskey will surely guide you toward your next favorite bottle. If you want a more personalized bourbon whiskey experience, join our Bourbon Club!
Make Every Month a Bourbon Adventure with The Bourbon Club
At Taster’s Club, pursuing the best bourbon whiskey becomes an exciting adventure, and our list of the best bourbon whiskey will surely guide you toward your next favorite bottle. If you want a more personalized bourbon whiskey experience, join our Bourbon Club!
