10 Beginners Best Bourbons Under $50 (2026 Update)

In 2026, finding a bottle of whiskey that tastes expensive but costs less than a tank of gas is becoming an art form.

Whiskey prices have risen across the board. The bottles that used to sit at $30 are now $45. The bottles that were $50 are now locked behind glass cabinets for $80.

However, the “Sweet Spot” still exists.

There remains a glorious tier of American whiskey where quality meets value. These are the workhorses of the bar—bottles robust enough for cocktails but complex enough to sip neat. If you know where to look, you can still find liquid gold without breaking the bank.

In this guide, we have curated the best bourbon under 50 dollars available on shelves right now. No unicorns, no raffles—just great whiskey.

1. Wild Turkey 101

If we could only choose one budget bourbon to drink for the rest of our lives, it would be this.

Why it’s a winner: It is bottled at 101 proof (50.5% ABV). This higher strength means it holds up to ice and cuts through Coke or Ginger Ale without losing flavor.

Flavor Profile: Bold baking spices, heavy caramel, orange zest, and a distinct “funk” that Turkey fans adore. It is the definition of a Kentucky Hug.

2. Knob Creek 9 Year Old

In a world where Age Statements are disappearing, Knob Creek brought the “9 Year” statement back.

Why it’s a winner: Finding a 9-year-old, 100-proof bourbon for under $50 is a miracle in 2026. It is part of the Jim Beam Small Batch Collection and offers incredible depth.

Flavor Profile: Deep oak, roasted peanuts, vanilla bean, and dark chocolate. It tastes older than it is.

3. Four Roses Small Batch

The bottle looks great, and the liquid inside is even better. Four Roses is famous for using 10 different recipes (combinations of yeast and mash bills).

Why it’s a winner: This is the diplomat of bourbons. It is incredibly balanced and mellow, making it the perfect best bourbon under 50 for beginners or gifts.

Flavor Profile: Red berries, dried fruit, light spice, and creamy honey.

Curious about yeast strains?
Learn how yeast affects flavor in our Sour Mash Guide (Vol 122).

4. Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond (White Label)

This is the budget king. You can often find this for under $25, yet it performs better in blind tastings than bottles costing three times as much.

Why it’s a winner: As a “Bottled-in-Bond” spirit, it must be at least 4 years old and exactly 100 proof. It is cheap, loud, and reliable.

Flavor Profile: Peanut brittle, caramel corn, and white pepper.

5. Old Grand-Dad 114

Do not let the ugly bottle fool you. This is a high-rye bourbon that packs a massive punch.

Why it’s a winner: At 114 proof (57% ABV), this is dangerously close to cask strength for a bargain price. It is spicy, oily, and intense.

Flavor Profile: Cinnamon red hots, citrus peel, tobacco, and intense rye spice.

6. Elijah Craig Small Batch

Often credited as the “Father of Bourbon,” Elijah Craig (the brand) maintains a high standard of quality.

Why it’s a winner: It blends 8 to 12-year-old barrels. It has a classic, woody profile that appeals to traditionalists.

Flavor Profile: Nutmeg, dry oak, smoke, and burnt sugar.

7. Maker’s Mark 46

This is standard Maker’s Mark that has been finished with seared French Oak staves inserted into the barrel.

Why it’s a winner: The wood finishing adds a layer of complexity and boldness that the standard bottle lacks. It is a “Wheated Bourbon,” meaning it uses wheat instead of rye, making it softer.

Flavor Profile: Intense vanilla, caramel sauce, and toasted bread.

What is finishing?
Read about French Oak staves in our Cooperage Guide (Vol 130).

8. 1792 Small Batch

Produced at the Barton 1792 Distillery, this bottle has a unique “High Rye” mash bill.

Why it’s a winner: It is complex and spicy. It often wins awards in blind tastings against much more expensive competitors.

Flavor Profile: Rye spice, banana, cocoa, and fruitcake.

9. Russell’s Reserve 10 Year

Created by the legendary father-son duo Jimmy and Eddie Russell of Wild Turkey.

Why it’s a winner: It is essentially lower-proof Wild Turkey aged longer (10 years). It takes the rough edges off the classic Turkey profile and turns it into a sophisticated sipper.

Flavor Profile: Leather, old oak, vanilla, and chewing tobacco.

10. Old Forester 100 Proof

Often overshadowed by its expensive brothers (the 1910 and 1920), the standard “Signature” 100 Proof is a sleeper hit.

Why it’s a winner: It is arguably the best cocktail bourbon on the market. It makes a mean Old Fashioned and costs pennies compared to the rest of the Whiskey Row series.

Flavor Profile: Cherry, banana, coffee, and rich oak.

Summary: The Price of Pleasure

You do not need to be rich to drink well.

While the secondary market chases $500 unicorns, the smart money is on these 10 bottles. They are consistent, available, and delicious.

Whether you want the high-proof punch of Old Grand-Dad 114 or the refined elegance of Four Roses Small Batch, the best bourbon under 50 is waiting on a shelf near you.