Building a home bar that you’re proud of can feel like an expensive hobby, especially when you get to the whiskey section. It’s easy to assume that the best bottles are locked behind glass cases with triple-digit price tags. But the secret that seasoned whiskey drinkers know is that quality and cost don’t always go hand-in-hand. Some of the most reliable, enjoyable, and easy-drinking spirits are sitting right on the shelf, waiting to be discovered. We’re here to prove that you can stock your cart with incredible options without draining your bank account. Consider this your ultimate guide to finding the smoothest whiskey under $50, from classic bourbons to surprising ryes.
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</div>Key Takeaways
- Smoothness is about balance, not just age: A whiskey’s pleasant, easy-drinking character comes from the entire production process, which works to balance flavors and eliminate any harsh, alcoholic burn.
- Great flavor doesn’t require a high price: You can find incredibly smooth and delicious whiskeys for under $50 across every style, from sweet bourbon and spicy rye to mellow Irish and Scotch options.
- Trust your own taste to find your favorite: Use flavor descriptions like “caramel” or “spice” to guide your choices, and remember the best way to enjoy your whiskey is exactly how you like it—neat, on ice, or in a cocktail.
What Makes a Whiskey “Smooth,” Anyway?
You’ve probably heard someone describe a whiskey as “smooth,” but what does that really mean? It’s one of the most common words used to talk about spirits, yet it can feel a bit vague. Essentially, a smooth whiskey is one that’s easy and pleasant to drink. It goes down without that harsh, fiery burn that can make you wince. Instead, it feels balanced and agreeable from the first sip to the last.
Think of it this way: a smooth whiskey doesn’t assault your senses with overpowering alcohol heat. Instead, the flavors are well-integrated, and the texture feels pleasant in your mouth. This doesn’t mean the whiskey is boring or simple. In fact, many of the most complex and flavorful whiskeys are also incredibly smooth. It’s all about the craftsmanship behind the spirit—distilling and aging it in a way that tames the rough edges while letting the delicious character shine through. It’s the kind of drink you can relax with, whether you’re sipping it neat or mixing it into your favorite cocktail.
Key Signs of a Smooth Whiskey
So, how can you spot a smooth whiskey? It comes down to a few key characteristics. First, pay attention to the mouthfeel. A smooth whiskey often has a pleasant texture—it might feel creamy, velvety, or even a little oily on your tongue. It shouldn’t feel thin, sharp, or astringent. This texture helps carry the flavors across your palate in a really satisfying way.
Next, consider the balance of flavors. A great, smooth whiskey will present a harmony of tastes. You might pick up notes of sweetness, fruit, spice, and oak from the barrel, but no single flavor should be so aggressive that it throws everything else off. The flavors should unfold and evolve as you drink, creating an interesting experience without any jarring notes. Finally, think about the finish—that’s the taste that lingers after you swallow. A smooth whiskey leaves you with a warm, pleasant aftertaste, not a rough, alcoholic burn.
How Production Methods Shape the Flavor
The journey to a smooth whiskey starts long before it ever hits your glass. The entire whiskey-making process is designed to refine the spirit and build character. It begins with the mash bill, which is the recipe of grains used. For example, bourbon’s corn-heavy recipe gives it a foundational sweetness. After fermentation, the spirit is distilled, which purifies it and concentrates the alcohol and flavor.
But the real magic happens during aging. When whiskey rests in charred oak barrels, a wonderful transformation occurs. The barrel acts like a filter, smoothing out harsh compounds in the spirit. At the same time, it imparts its own signature flavors, like vanilla, caramel, and spice. This interaction between the wood and the whiskey over time is what mellows the spirit, integrates the flavors, and ultimately creates that smooth, easy-sipping character we all look for.
Why Age Matters (and Sometimes, Why It Doesn’t)
There’s a common belief that when it comes to whiskey, older is always better. While age can certainly contribute to smoothness, it’s not the whole story. Spending more time in a barrel gives the whiskey more opportunity to mellow out and absorb those rich, complex flavors from the wood. This is why many well-aged whiskeys are exceptionally smooth. You’ll find that many bourbons in the $30 to $50 range have been aged long enough to develop fantastic flavor and a smooth profile without breaking the bank.
However, age isn’t a guarantee of quality. A whiskey left in a barrel for too long can become overly woody and tannic, losing its balance. On the other hand, a younger whiskey can be perfectly smooth if it’s crafted with care. And for flavored whiskeys like our Mash & Mallow S’mores Whiskey, the goal is a bit different. We focus on balancing our smooth whiskey base with delicious, nostalgic flavors to create an approachable spirit that’s smooth and fun from the start.
Our Favorite Smooth Bourbons Under $50
When you think of smooth American whiskey, bourbon is probably the first thing that comes to mind. And for good reason. To be called a bourbon, a whiskey must be made from at least 51% corn, which gives it a signature sweetness that makes it incredibly approachable, especially for newcomers. It’s then aged in new, charred oak barrels, a process that imparts those classic vanilla, caramel, and toasty oak notes we all love. This combination of a sweet grain base and rich barrel influence is what makes bourbon so famously smooth and easy to drink.
The great news is you don’t have to spend a fortune to find a fantastic bottle. While there are certainly high-end, special-occasion bourbons out there, the market is full of high-quality, easy-sipping options that are as friendly to your palate as they are to your wallet. You can find incredible complexity, character, and of course, smoothness, without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for something to sip neat, on the rocks, or to use as a base for a classic cocktail, these picks deliver serious flavor without the hefty price tag. Here are a few of our go-to bourbons that consistently prove you can get top-tier quality for under $50.
Mash & Mallow S’mores Whiskey
Okay, we’re a little biased, but we created our S’mores Whiskey with one goal in mind: ultimate smoothness. We blend smooth American whiskey with the nostalgic flavors of rich chocolate, toasted marshmallow, and a hint of graham cracker. The result is a spirit that’s sweet but balanced, with a warm, inviting finish that’s perfect for sipping by a fire (or just pretending you are). It’s a fun twist on traditional whiskey that’s incredibly easy to drink on its own, yet it also makes for some seriously creative cocktails. If you’re looking for a smooth whiskey that’s also a conversation starter, you can buy a bottle online.
Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon
You’ve likely seen this iconic bottle on plenty of back bars, and its popularity is well-deserved. Buffalo Trace is a fantastic and widely available bourbon that’s known for being exceptionally smooth and rich. It’s often recommended as a top choice for its balanced flavor, which, as noted by the experts at Flaviar, combines sweet and spicy notes with a touch of oak. It’s a versatile workhorse that’s just as good sipped neat as it is in an Old Fashioned. For the price, it’s tough to find a more consistent and satisfying pour. It’s a staple for any home bar.
Elijah Craig Small Batch
Named after the man credited with inventing the process of aging whiskey in charred oak barrels, Elijah Craig Small Batch carries a lot of history in every bottle. This bourbon comes from one of the oldest distilleries and is celebrated for its rich, complex flavor profile. You’ll find a wonderful balance of smoky oak, warm spice, vanilla, and caramel. It has a full-bodied character that feels luxurious, making it an excellent value for its price point. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone who appreciates a bourbon with a little more depth and a long, smooth finish.
Woodford Reserve
Woodford Reserve is another highly respected bourbon that’s particularly known for its exceptionally smooth taste. What sets it apart is its use of wheat as the secondary grain instead of the more common rye, which contributes to its softer, gentler profile. This bourbon offers a beautifully balanced mix of dried fruit, vanilla, and toasty oak notes with a creamy, silky mouthfeel. It’s sophisticated enough for a seasoned whiskey drinker but approachable enough for someone just starting their journey. It’s a reliable and elegant choice that always delivers a smooth sipping experience.
Top Irish and Scotch Whiskeys Under $50
If you’re looking for a smooth sip, you can’t go wrong with Irish and Scotch whiskeys. While American whiskeys like bourbon and rye often lead with bold corn and spice notes, their cousins from across the pond tend to offer a different kind of experience. Irish whiskey is famous for its exceptionally mellow and often lighter character, which comes from being triple-distilled. It’s a fantastic starting point if you find other whiskeys a bit too harsh.
Scotch, on the other hand, offers a huge range of flavors, from light and floral to rich and smoky. But don’t let the stereotype of peat smoke scare you off. Many Scotches, especially blended malts and those from regions like the Lowlands and Speyside, are incredibly smooth and approachable. They often have notes of fruit, honey, and vanilla that make for easy sipping. Below are a few of our favorite Irish and Scotch options that deliver incredible smoothness without breaking the bank.
Jameson Irish Whiskey
You’ve probably seen this iconic green bottle everywhere, and for good reason. Jameson is a classic for its incredibly smooth and mellow profile, making it a perfect introduction to the world of Irish whiskey. It’s triple-distilled, which helps strip away any harshness, leaving you with a clean, versatile spirit. You’ll find light floral notes with hints of spicy wood and a touch of sweetness. Because of its approachable character, it’s a true all-rounder. Enjoy it neat, with a single ice cube, or in a simple highball with ginger ale and a squeeze of lime. It’s a reliable staple that never disappoints.
Monkey Shoulder Blended Malt
Don’t let the playful name fool you—Monkey Shoulder is a seriously good Scotch that’s practically made for easy drinking. It’s a blended malt Scotch whisky, meaning it’s a mix of single malts from three different Speyside distilleries. This process creates a beautifully balanced and smooth flavor without any of the harsh, smoky notes that can be intimidating for newcomers. Expect rich vanilla, a hint of orange, and warm, spicy notes. It’s fantastic on its own but was specifically designed to shine in cocktails. Try it in a Whiskey Sour or a classic Old Fashioned for a modern twist.
Famous Grouse
Famous Grouse is Scotland’s best-selling whisky, and one sip will tell you why. It’s a masterfully blended Scotch that delivers a consistently smooth and satisfying experience at an unbeatable price. This whisky has a wonderfully rich and malty character with a smooth profile that features notes of dried fruit, shortbread, and a touch of spice. It’s well-balanced and incredibly easy to drink, whether you’re sipping it neat or mixing it into a cocktail. If you’re building a home bar on a budget, Famous Grouse is a must-have for its versatility and crowd-pleasing flavor. It’s a dependable choice that always hits the spot.
Can’t-Miss Rye Whiskeys Under $50
If you love the sweetness of bourbon but are curious about something with a little more kick, rye whiskey is your next stop. Known for its signature peppery spice, rye offers a fantastic contrast to the corn-forward sweetness of bourbon. This distinct flavor comes from its mash bill, which must contain at least 51% rye grain. The result is a spirit that’s often described as spicy, fruity, and bold. Don’t let the word “spicy” intimidate you, though. The best ryes balance that peppery note with hints of fruit, vanilla, and caramel, creating a complex and satisfying sip.
Rye is the backbone of classic cocktails like the Manhattan and the Old Fashioned, as its assertive character stands up beautifully to mixers. But many modern ryes are crafted to be exceptionally smooth, making them perfect for sipping neat or with a single ice cube. Exploring the world of rye doesn’t have to be an expensive hobby, either. There are some truly outstanding bottles available for under $50 that deliver incredible flavor and quality. Here are a few of our absolute favorites that prove you don’t need to spend a lot to get a top-notch rye.
Rittenhouse Rye
Rittenhouse Rye is a bartender’s secret weapon and a fantastic bottle to have on your home bar. As a “Bottled-in-Bond” whiskey, it meets strict government standards for age and proof, which is a great indicator of its quality. At 100-proof, it has enough backbone to shine in any cocktail you throw at it. The flavor is rich with notes of baking spices and what one review calls “gingerbread,” making it a warm and inviting sip. For around $25, it’s one of the best values in the whiskey world, perfect for mixing up a classic cocktail or enjoying on its own.
Old Forester Rye
If you’re looking for an incredibly dependable and smooth rye, Old Forester is your bottle. From a distillery with a long history of making great whiskey, this rye is known for being exceptionally well-balanced. It has that classic rye spice, but it’s softened by notes of brown sugar and black pepper, with a floral hint that makes it unique. This is a great “gateway rye” for bourbon drinkers because it’s not overly aggressive, yet it still delivers that signature spicy character. The Whiskey Shelf’s review highlights its versatility, and we agree—it’s just as delicious neat as it is in a highball with ginger ale.
Sazerac Rye
Named after the iconic New Orleans cocktail, Sazerac Rye is a true classic with a rich history. This whiskey is famously smooth and approachable, making it a favorite among both new and seasoned rye drinkers. It’s a bit gentler than other ryes, with lovely notes of vanilla, candied citrus, and subtle spice that linger on the finish. While it was practically made for the Sazerac cocktail (a must-try if you haven’t had one), its delicate and sweet profile makes it an excellent sipping whiskey. It’s a legendary spirit that consistently delivers a high-quality experience without the high price tag.
How to Read Flavor Profiles and Tasting Notes
Walking down the whiskey aisle can feel like learning a new language. Descriptions like “notes of charred oak” or “a hint of stone fruit” might seem a little over the top, but they’re just guides to help you find a flavor you’ll love. Think of tasting notes as a cheat sheet for what’s inside the bottle. They’re not about being a professional critic; they’re about matching your personal taste to the right spirit.
Once you know what words to look for, you can confidently pick a bottle you’ll actually enjoy drinking. Whether you have a major sweet tooth or prefer something a bit more savory and complex, the label can tell you almost everything you need to know. Let’s break down some of the common terms so you can find your perfect match.
For Those Who Love Sweet & Vanilla Notes
If you’re drawn to sweeter flavors, you’re in luck—many whiskeys, especially bourbons, are known for their dessert-like qualities. Look for descriptions that include words like “caramel,” “toffee,” “honey,” and “vanilla.” For example, a bottle of Buffalo Trace is often described as tasting like fruit cake and butter toffee. These sweet notes often come from the corn in the mash bill and the spirit’s time spent aging in new, charred oak barrels. If you see these words on a label, you can expect a rich, warm, and inviting sip that’s perfect for anyone who enjoys a little sweetness in their glass.
For Fans of Rich & Complex Flavors
If you prefer a drink with a bit more depth, keep an eye out for tasting notes that mention “spice,” “oak,” “leather,” or “nutmeg.” These flavors often point to a more mature and robust whiskey. For instance, Elijah Craig Small Batch is known for its warm spice and charred oak character. These complex profiles are developed during the aging process, where the whiskey interacts with the wood of the barrel. Whiskeys with these notes are fantastic for sipping slowly, as their flavors can evolve from the first sip to the last, offering a new experience each time.
For a Light & Approachable Sip
Sometimes you just want a whiskey that’s smooth, simple, and easy to drink. If that’s your goal, look for words like “mellow,” “light,” and “smooth.” Irish whiskeys like Jameson are famous for this approachable style, as are some blended Scotches like Monkey Shoulder. These spirits are often triple-distilled or blended specifically to create a gentle and balanced flavor profile. They’re a great starting point if you’re new to whiskey and want something that won’t overwhelm your palate. They also make a fantastic base for simple whiskey cocktails.
How to Identify Different Notes Yourself
Ready to start picking out flavors on your own? The best way to learn is simply to start tasting. Pour a small amount into a glass and give it a gentle swirl. First, take a sniff. What do you smell? It might be something broad like “sweet” or “smoky.” Then, take a small sip and let it sit on your tongue. You might notice flavors like caramel, vanilla, or spice that come from the aging process. Don’t worry about getting it “right.” The goal is to identify what you like. Start by grouping flavors into big categories—sweet, spicy, fruity, or smoky—and go from there.
How to Best Enjoy Your Whiskey
So you’ve found a whiskey you love—now what? While the absolute best way to enjoy it is whatever way you like most, a few simple tips can help you get the most out of every sip. Think of these less as strict rules and more as fun experiments to try. You might be surprised by how a different glass or a simple food pairing can completely change your tasting experience. It’s all about finding what works for you, whether you’re drinking it straight, on the rocks, or in a cocktail.
Does Temperature and Glassware Really Matter?
The short answer is yes, but you don’t need to get overly scientific about it. Most whiskeys show their best side at room temperature, somewhere between 60-65°F. When a whiskey is too cold, some of its more subtle flavors and aromas can get muted. Serving it at room temperature allows all those delicious notes to open up.
As for glassware, a tulip-shaped glass (like a Glencairn) is popular for a reason. The shape helps concentrate the aromas, directing them right to your nose, which is a huge part of tasting. But don’t feel like you need to run out and buy special glasses. A standard rocks glass works just fine, especially for a casual drink. The most important thing is that you’re enjoying what’s in the glass. For more tips, check out this guide on how to drink whiskey neat.
Simple Cocktail Ideas to Try at Home
Mixing a great whiskey cocktail at home doesn’t have to be complicated. A classic Whiskey Sour (whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup) is always a crowd-pleaser and incredibly easy to whip up. If you want something even simpler, a Highball—just whiskey and soda water over ice with a lemon twist—is light, refreshing, and really lets the spirit’s character shine through.
And for a whiskey like Mash & Mallow S’mores, you can have a lot of fun. Try it in an Old Fashioned for a decadent, chocolatey twist, or use it to create a S’mores Espresso Martini. The sweet, toasty notes are perfect for dessert-style drinks. You can find plenty of inspiration on our cocktails page to get you started.
Easy Food Pairing Suggestions
Pairing whiskey with food is a fantastic way to discover new flavor combinations. The general idea is to either complement or contrast the whiskey’s profile. A bold, smoky bourbon, for example, stands up beautifully to rich foods like barbecue or a juicy steak. Sharp cheeses like aged cheddar or a funky blue cheese also create a wonderful contrast with the smoothness of many whiskeys.
For sweeter spirits, think dessert. A whiskey with vanilla and caramel notes, like our Mash & Mallow S’mores, is a natural match for anything with chocolate or caramel. You can sip it alongside a rich chocolate lava cake, drizzle it over vanilla ice cream, or just enjoy it with a few squares of dark chocolate. It’s the perfect way to end a meal.
Where to Find These Whiskeys (and Get the Best Deal)
You’ve got your list of smooth, affordable whiskeys—now comes the fun part: tracking them down. Finding a great bottle under $50 is totally achievable, but knowing where to look can save you time and money. The good news is that access to incredible spirits has never been better. Whether you prefer browsing the aisles of your local store or scrolling through options from the comfort of your couch, there are plenty of ways to get your hands on a new favorite. Think of this as your treasure map to finding delicious, budget-friendly whiskey.
In the sections below, we’ll walk you through our go-to retail spots, share some essential tips for buying whiskey online, and show you how to make sure you’re always getting the best price. From big-box retailers with competitive deals to specialized online shops that deliver right to your door, we’ve got you covered. The goal is to make your shopping experience as smooth as the whiskey you’re about to enjoy. Ready to stock your bar cart? You can always use our store locator to find Mash & Mallow S’mores Whiskey near you or simply buy a bottle online and have it shipped directly to your door. Let’s get shopping.
Our Go-To Retail Stores
Your local liquor store can be a goldmine. Big-box retailers often have great prices and a wide selection, making them a reliable starting point. But don’t overlook smaller, independent shops! The staff there are often passionate about spirits and can offer personalized recommendations you might not find elsewhere. This is also where you can discover local or craft distilleries. To find our S’mores Whiskey, just pop your zip code into our store locator. For online shopping, sites like Barbank are fantastic because they specialize in quality whiskeys under $50, proving you don’t need to spend a fortune to find something delicious.
Tips for Shopping Online
Shopping for whiskey online opens up a world of options right at your fingertips. It’s the easiest way to find bottles that might not be available in your area. Before you click ‘buy,’ just be sure to check your state’s shipping laws, as they can vary. Many online retailers have email newsletters that are worth signing up for—they’ll often send out exclusive discounts and alert you to sales. With so many choices, it helps to read reviews and guides. For example, some sites have compiled lists of dozens of Scotch whiskies under $50, making it easy to explore a category. And of course, you can always have Mash & Mallow delivered to your home.
How to Compare Prices and Save
A little bit of research can go a long way in saving money. If you’re shopping in person, it doesn’t hurt to check the prices at a couple of different stores. Online, you can often use browser extensions or price-comparison sites to find the best deal. Remember that the $30 to $50 range is often the sweet spot for value. As experts note, this price point for bourbon often delivers more complex flavors without a hefty price tag. Also, keep an eye out for different bottle sizes. Sometimes a 1-liter bottle offers a better per-ounce price than the standard 750ml. Finally, watch for holiday gift sets—they can sometimes include glassware or other extras for the same price as the bottle alone.
Want to Learn More About Whiskey?
Once you find a few whiskeys you love, you might get curious about what goes into making them so good. Understanding a little more about the spirit can make you appreciate your evening drink even more and help you find your next favorite bottle with confidence. It’s not about becoming an expert overnight; it’s about having fun with the process and learning what you like.
Diving into the world of whiskey doesn’t have to be intimidating. We can start with the simple things, like how to properly taste what’s in your glass to pick out different flavors. From there, it’s helpful to clear up some common myths that can make whiskey feel unapproachable (like the idea that you have to spend a fortune to get a good bottle). And if you’re thinking of keeping a few different options on hand, we’ll go over how to start a small collection that’s all about your personal taste, not about what someone else says you should have. It’s your bar cart, after all.
Master the Basics of Tasting
Tasting whiskey is about more than just taking a sip—it’s about taking a moment to notice the details. A good, affordable whiskey can have a surprising number of flavors: sweet, smoky, spicy, fruity, and oaky notes that can change as you drink it. The goal is to find a spirit that feels pleasant in your mouth, whether that’s creamy, oily, or smooth, not harsh.
To start, pour a small amount into a glass. First, look at the color. Then, give it a gentle swirl and bring it to your nose to smell the aromas. Finally, take a small sip and let it sit on your tongue for a moment. Notice the initial flavor, the feeling as you swallow, and any lingering taste. This simple tasting method helps you appreciate the spirit’s complexity.
Common Whiskey Myths, Debunked
Let’s clear up a few things. First, you don’t need to spend a lot of money to find great whiskey. As this entire list shows, there are incredible options at every price point, and many expensive, hard-to-find bottles simply aren’t worth the high price tag for most drinkers.
Another big myth is that you have to drink whiskey neat. If you enjoy it that way, great! But adding a splash of water or a few ice cubes can open up new flavors. And don’t let anyone tell you that good whiskey doesn’t belong in a mixed drink. Some of the best whiskey cocktails are made with quality spirits, allowing their character to shine through. The best way to drink whiskey is whatever way you enjoy it most.
How to Start Your Own Collection
Starting a “collection” sounds serious, but it just means having a few different bottles on hand to suit your mood or your guests. A great place to start is with three or four bottles representing different styles, like a sweet bourbon, a spicy rye, and a smooth Irish whiskey. When choosing a bourbon, for example, you can look at how long it’s been aged, as this often brings out flavors like caramel, vanilla, and spice.
You’ll find that bottles in the $30-$50 range often offer the best value, with more complex tastes than cheaper options. Your collection should be a reflection of what you enjoy drinking. Start with a bottle you know you love—like our own Mash & Mallow S’mores Whiskey—and build from there.
Related Articles
- What is the Smoothest Whiskey? Our Top Picks
- The Best Smooth Whiskey to Drink Straight
- 12 Smooth Whiskey Brands Perfect for Beginners
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</div>Frequently Asked Questions
I’m new to whiskey. Which type is the smoothest to start with? If you’re just getting started, I’d point you toward either Irish whiskey or bourbon. Irish whiskeys, like Jameson, are typically triple-distilled, which gives them an exceptionally mellow and light character without any harshness. Bourbons, on the other hand, get their signature sweetness from a corn-heavy recipe, making them very approachable. You really can’t go wrong with either as your first step.
Does adding ice or water to whiskey make me look like I don’t know what I’m doing? Not at all! In fact, many whiskey experts add a few drops of water to their glass on purpose. It can help open up the aromas and soften the alcohol, allowing you to pick up on more subtle flavors. Adding a large ice cube is also a great way to chill your drink with minimal dilution. The only “rule” in whiskey is to drink it in the way that you enjoy it the most.
Is a flavored whiskey like Mash & Mallow still considered a “real” whiskey? Yes, it absolutely is. Flavored whiskeys start with a genuine whiskey base—in our case, smooth American whiskey—and then natural flavors are added to create a specific profile. While it’s a different experience than a traditional straight bourbon or rye, the quality of the underlying spirit is what makes it work. Think of it as a fun, modern take on a classic spirit, designed for easy sipping and creative cocktails.
What’s the one cocktail I should learn to make first? For a drink that’s incredibly simple and refreshing, start with a Highball. All it requires is two ounces of your chosen whiskey poured over ice in a tall glass, topped with soda water or ginger ale. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the character of the whiskey without masking it. Once you’re comfortable with that, an Old Fashioned is a great next step.
Why is there such a big price difference between bottles? Am I missing out if I only buy whiskeys under $50? Price is often influenced by factors like age, rarity, and marketing, but it isn’t always a direct indicator of quality. While older, more expensive whiskeys can be fantastic, you are definitely not missing out by sticking to the under-$50 range. This price point is the sweet spot where you can find expertly crafted spirits with incredible flavor and complexity. You can build an amazing and diverse collection without ever breaking the bank.
