Best Bourbon Under 100: 5 Hidden Gems for Discerning Palate

Why Bourbon Under 100 is a Great Option

When choosing a fine bourbon, price is only sometimes an indicator of quality. In fact, some of the best bourbons on the market are surprisingly affordable. With so many options, navigating the crowded market and finding the perfect bottle for your budget can be difficult. 

For those new to bourbon or looking for something that won’t break the bank, bourbons under $100 are an excellent option. Not only do they offer great value for money, but they also provide a wide variety of flavors and aromas that can rival those of more expensive brands. 

The Brief History of Bourbon and its Popularity

Bourbon has a long and storied history in America, dating back to the late 1700s. Named after Bourbon County in Kentucky, where it was first produced, bourbon quickly became popular nationwide as American settlers spread out westward. 

Today, bourbon is still one of America’s most famous spirits, with over 95% of all bourbon produced in Kentucky alone. The unique flavor profile and smoothness make it a favorite among whiskey lovers worldwide. 

What Makes Bourbon Under $100 Such a Great Option?

One significant advantage of choosing bourbon under $100 is that you don’t have to sacrifice quality for affordability. Many bourbons at this price point are aged for several years and crafted by skilled distillers using traditional methods. 

Another benefit is that lower-priced bourbons offer a more comprehensive range of flavors than their more expensive counterparts. From sweet caramel notes to spicy rye finishes, there’s something for everyone regarding affordable bourbons. 

Overall, selecting a great bourbon doesn’t have to be expensive if you know what you’re looking for. By exploring options under $100, you might discover your new favorite drink without breaking the bank. 

Top 5 bourbons under $100

The Best Bourbon is Affordable

You don’t have to break the bank when enjoying a great bourbon. In fact, some of the best bourbons can be found for less than $100. 

My top five bourbons provide great value while still delivering flavor and complexity. 

Four Roses Small Batch – $ 30-$40

Four Roses Small Batch has a soft and delicate aroma with notes of vanilla and caramel. The taste is smooth and sweet, with hints of honey, cinnamon, and oak. This bourbon has a long finish with subtle spice notes. It’s an easy sipper that pairs well with grilled meats or chocolate desserts. 

Buffalo Trace – $25-$35

Buffalo Trace is an excellent entry-level bourbon with great value for its price point. It’s smooth and easy to drink, with caramel, vanilla, and honey flavors. There are also undertones of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice which give it some complexity without overpowering it. Buffalo Trace pairs well with BBQ or smoked meats. 

Elijah Craig Small Batch – $ 30-$40

Elijah Craig Small Batch is a rich and complex bourbon perfect for sipping neat or over ice. It has a deep amber color with aromas of vanilla, caramelized sugar, toasted oak, and warm spices like cinnamon and clove on the nose. The pallet continues to reveal flavors such as dark fruit jam complemented by notes of nutmeg & allspice, leading to charred oak & butterscotch on the finish. It pairs perfectly well with smoky cheeses or grilled steaks. 

Wild Turkey Rare Breed – $45-$55

Wild Turkey Rare Breed is a high-proof bourbon that packs a punch of flavor. It has a spicy aroma with notes of vanilla and oak. The taste is bold and complex, with caramel, honey, and cinnamon flavors. The finish is long and warm. This bourbon pairs well with salty or savory snacks like BBQ ribs or salted caramel chocolate. 

Booker’s Bourbon – $ 70-$80

Booker’s Bourbon is a small batch of bourbon bottled at barrel proof, giving it an intense flavor profile. It has a deep amber color with vanilla, toasted nuts, and oak aromas on the nose. The palate explodes on your tongue with well-balanced flavors of caramel, vanilla & peppery spice leading to its signature peanut-butter finish.

This bourbon pairs best with meats slow-cooked in barbecue sauce or even espresso-infused desserts. Overall these five options are exceptional bourbons that come at affordable prices without sacrificing taste or complexity. They can be enjoyed neat for sipping or used in cocktails for those who prefer it that way! 

The Impact of Barrel Aging on Flavor Profile

One of the most essential factors in creating bourbon is the aging process. After distillation, bourbon must be aged in new, charred oak barrels for a minimum of two years to be considered “straight” bourbon. During this time, the wood interacts with the liquid and imparts its own unique flavors and aromas. 

The type of barrel used can also influence the flavor profile. Most bourbon is aged in American white oak barrels, known for their vanilla and caramel notes. 

However, some distilleries experiment with other types of wood, such as cherry or maple, to create unique flavors. The length of aging also plays a role in flavor development. 

The longer bourbon ages, the more complex and mellow its flavors become. However, there is a point where too much aging can result in an over-oaked taste. 

Understanding the Difference Between Straight Bourbon and Blended Bourbon

Straight bourbon must adhere to strict production regulations set by the government. It must contain at least 51% corn and be aged for at least two years in new charred oak barrels. Blended bourbon, conversely, can include any combination of straight bourbons and neutral spirits or other flavorings. 

Straight bourbons are typically considered higher quality because they adhere to these strict regulations. Blended bourbons can be more affordable but may offer less complexity or depth than straight bourbons. 

The Role of Mash Bill in Creating Distinct Flavors

The mash bill refers to the grains used to make bourbon before it is distilled. While all bourbons must contain at least 51% corn, there is room for variation with other grains such as rye or wheat. 

Many bourbon enthusiasts believe that the mash bill significantly impacts the flavor profile. For example, bourbons with a higher rye content tend to have spicy notes and a drier finish, while those with more wheat can be sweeter and smoother. 

Distilleries often experiment with different mash bills to create unique flavors and stand out in the crowded bourbon market. Some even release limited edition bourbons with unusual mash bills to appeal to collectors and enthusiasts. 

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The Angel’s Share

When bourbon is aging in barrels, a certain amount of the liquid evaporates yearly. This evaporation is known as the “angel’s share.” The name comes from the idea that angels are taking a sip of bourbon while it ages. 

In reality, it’s just the alcohol evaporating through the porous wood of the barrel. The angel’s share can range from 2-4% per year, depending on humidity and temperature fluctuations in the warehouse where the barrels are stored. 

While losing some liquid may seem like a waste, it actually contributes to the unique flavor profile of bourbon. As the alcohol evaporates, it leaves behind more concentrated flavors and aromas in what remains in the barrel. 

Some distilleries have exploited this phenomenon by selling “angel’s share” bottles – limited edition releases featuring small amounts of rare and aged bourbons. These bottles come with a high price tag but are highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs alike. 

The Proof Is In the Pudding

Proof refers to the percentage of alcohol in a bottle of bourbon. It is determined by doubling its percentage of alcohol by volume (ABV). 

For example, a bottle at 50% ABV would be 100 proof. Proof can significantly impact both taste and quality when it comes to bourbon. 

Generally speaking, higher-proof bourbons tend to have more intense flavors and aromas – but they also pack more punch when drinking them straight or mixing cocktails. However, having a high proof does not necessarily mean that bourbon is better quality than one with lower proof. 

A well-crafted lower-proof bourbon can still have incredible complexity and balance. It ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between different proofs for your favorite bottle of bourbon. 

 

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The Impact of Water Source

Bourbon is made from a combination of grains, yeast, and water. The water source used in the production process can significantly impact the finished product. Many distilleries use natural spring water in their bourbon-making process. 

This type of water is known for having a unique mineral composition that can add nuanced flavors and aromas to the bourbon. Some distilleries even go so far as to build their facilities near specific springs to take advantage of the desired characteristics of that particular source. 

Other distilleries may use municipal or filtered water, which can still produce high-quality bourbons but will not have the same distinct flavor profile as those made with spring water. While it may seem like just one element in a long list of ingredients, the water quality and characteristics can significantly create a delicious and unique bottle of bourbon. 

Final Thoughts on the Versatility and Affordability of Bourbon

Bourbon offers versatility like no other spirit out there. It can be enjoyed neat or on the rocks, mixed in cocktails, or even used for cooking. The range of flavors that bourbon can offer makes it suitable for any occasion or mood – whether you want something light and fruity or bold and complex. 

Additionally, the affordability factor makes bourbon accessible to everyone who wants to enjoy quality spirits without breaking the bank. With so many great bourbons under $100 available today, there is no reason not to indulge in this wonderful spirit. 

We hope this article has given you some insight into the world of bourbons under $100. While there are many options, these top five selections are guaranteed to satisfy even the most discerning whiskey drinkers’ palates. 

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So go ahead, try them out, and let the rich flavors of bourbon transport you to a state of pure bliss. Cheers!