First bourbon under $40 — what should I grab?
January 24, 2026
Replies (5)
Welcome to the rabbit hole, Nate. You can't go wrong with Buffalo Trace as a starting point — it's approachable, reasonably complex, and won't break the bank. If you can find it (allocation is real in some areas), grab it. That said, my honest recommendation for a first "sipping bourbon" is Wild Turkey 101. Hear me out — it's $25, it's 101 proof so it has some backbone, and the flavor profile is classic bourbon: caramel, vanilla, baking spice, a little oak. It taught me what bourbon is supposed to taste like. Woodford is also solid but runs a touch sweeter, which you said you're not into. Skip Maker's Mark for now if sweet isn't your thing.
Seconding Wild Turkey 101! It was my gateway. Also throw Evan Williams Single Barrel on your list — usually around $30 and punches way above its price. It's got some nice cherry and toffee notes without being cloying. One tip: pour a small amount and let it sit in the glass for 5-10 minutes before you sip. It really opens up and you'll get more than just the alcohol burn.
Hot take: skip the training wheels and go straight to something with more character. Knob Creek 9 Year is about $38 and it's 100 proof with actual age on it. You'll get oak, caramel, and a finish that actually sticks around. But I'm also the guy who tells people to drink barrel proof, so take my advice with a grain of salt. Actually, take it with a splash of water — that's the one exception I'll make.
I know you said bourbon, but if you don't like sweet, you might actually prefer rye whiskey. Rittenhouse Rye is like $28 and it's spicier and drier than most bourbons. Just throwing it out there — it was a game changer for me when someone suggested it.
You guys are awesome. Went to the store and grabbed Wild Turkey 101 AND Rittenhouse Rye (Rachel you might be onto something). First impressions: the WT101 is really good — I can taste that caramel/vanilla thing everyone talks about. The rye is definitely different, more peppery? I think I like it. This is going to be an expensive hobby isn't it.