It is 2025, and we have officially reached the whiskey glut. That means many previously unavailable bottles are now sitting on the shelf of your local liquor store waiting for you to try! Below are our top 5 best budget bourbons to enjoy before winter ends.

1. Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style

Proof: 115
Price: ~$65
Tasting Notes:
A favorite among bourbon lovers for good reason. This high-proof bourbon brings deep layers of dark fruit, toffee, cocoa, and oak spice, all wrapped in a smooth yet powerful finish. If you love a rich and bold profile, this bottle won’t disappoint.

2. 1792 Full Proof

Proof: 125
Price: ~$55
Tasting Notes:
It’s a fantastic, high-proof option for the price. 1792 Full Proof delivers strong vanilla, caramelized sugar, cinnamon spice, and a hint of dark chocolate. It’s a little punchy but remains surprisingly smooth for 125 proof.

3. Four Roses Single Barrel

Proof: 100
Price: ~$50
Tasting Notes:
One of the best value single barrel bourbons on the market, this Four Roses offering delivers bright fruit, caramel, and spice with a floral sweetness. Its high-rye mash bill gives it a nice peppery kick, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a bit of spice in their pour.

4. Elijah Craig Barrel Proof

Proof: Varies (~120-135)
Price: ~$85
Tasting Notes:
Each Elijah Craig Barrel Proof batch delivers intense flavors of brown sugar, dark chocolate, and toasted oak. It’s bold, unfiltered, and perfect for those who love a full-flavored experience with a long, warming finish. The great part is that the price has dropped on this excellent bottle.

5. Russell’s Reserve Single Barrel

Proof: 11
Price: ~$70
Tasting Notes:
This Wild Turkey offering is well-balanced, with notes of vanilla, baking spices, and rich caramel. The 110-proof allows the deep oak and leather notes to shine without overpowering your palate. A fantastic bourbon for those who enjoy classic Wild Turkey flavors.