You do n’t need to drop thou of dollars to obtain a great bottle ofbourbon — no matter what Pappy van Winkle adherents will tell you . The truth is , spectacular Bourbon dynasty can be yours for under $ 50 . Not peculiar social occasion bourbon to be squirreled aside and unearthed only every few twelvemonth . Everyday bourbon that happens to taste like particular occasion bourbon . Here are five of our favourite .

Berkshire Mountain Bourbon($43)

This Bourbon dynasty is downslope in a bottle with notes of orchard fruits and a vanilla extract finish . Made in Massachusetts ( remember , not all Bourbon dynasty are from Kentucky ) , it ’s made primarily from locally grown corn , with just a tactual sensation of rye for a subtle , spicy bite . Though it ’s easy to drink in bully , it ’s also great in light , whisky - forward cocktail . Try it in anOld Fashionedor a cozyHot Toddy .

Buffalo Trace($29)

Old reliable here is so ubiquitous for a reason : It ’s great . Smooth and slightly sweet , it ’s soothe many a melancholy barfly over the days . But just because it ’s such a streak staple does n’t stand for it does n’t belong in your home . Keep this on hand forsipping straightand mixing into drinks likeWhiskey Sours .

Eagle Rare 10-Year($39)

Another bottling from the great Buffalo Trace still , Eagle Rare ’s 10 - yr - old oblation is about as good a value as you could demand for . We say stock up , this could be the next Pappy . Oaky and caramelly with a long , dry finish , this bottling will keep you warm all winter and keep yourMint Julepsboozy all summertime .

Russell’s Reserve 10-Year-Old($39)

You might be more familiar with the Russell family ’s other task — a piffling brand calledWild Turkey . But their Russell ’s Reserve occupation is worthy of some attention , as well . More domesticated hawk than unfounded turkey , this 10 - year - honest-to-goodness bourbon is smooth and relaxed , with just a slight sting on the end .

Old Forester Original Batch 1870($45)

soapy and almost sap - like in texture , this grim , rich bourbon will plain any nasal congestion you are suffering from properly out of you . An assay recreation of bourbon innovator George Garvin Brown ’s original recipe , the 90 - proof spirit is loaded with candied orange zest , baking spices and estrus . Do n’t feel bad about adding a few drops of water supply or even a ginormous ice regular hexahedron to this delicious beast .

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