I've still only started getting into the bourbon game... with 2 kids it's hard for me to justify spending more than about $45 a bottle. I have BT and Eagle Rare but don't drink it very often as it's really damn hard to find around here.
Amen! Mrs. Skinsfan and I are empty-nesters. When they were growing up, we couldn't justify that either. Now that they're all grown up and gone, we can afford to indulge.
Here's a list, (not complete by any means), of very good bourbon, that will expand your bourbon horizon, and not break the bank. Most of them are under, or in the ballpark, of $30.00 and very solid. All of them are staples in our house.
Old Granddad Bottled-in-Bond
Old Granddad 114*
Wild Turkey 101
Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond**
Elijah Craig
You should also give ryes a shot, (pun fully intended). Rye whiskey is spicier and more savory than bourbon. Bourbon is sweeter and has a more caramel-like flavor. I really like rye whiskey and Mrs. Skinsfan loves 'em.
The reason for the difference is mashbill. For bourbon, the mashbill must be at least 51% corn and for rye, the mashbill must be at least 51% rye).
Here are few, that meet the same criteria as above. They're all very good and in the neighborhood, or South of $30.00.
Rittenhouse Rye Bottled-in-Bond
Old Overholt Bottled-in-Bond
Wild Turkey 101 rye***
High West Double rye
Elijah Craig rye****
If you're in the spending mood, our favorite is Pikesville Rye, but I've never seen it less than $54.00.
* this is the original barrel proof bourbon and is an absolute steal at around $30.00 It's often overlooked, as is the OGD Bottled-in-Bond, because it's cheap and it's "what my grandpa drank"
** This is also an exceptional bargain.....~ $15.00, or $27.00 for a 1.75l
*** This is a little harder to find, but not impossible.
**** I'm not a huge fan, but the Mrs. loves it, and she's a big fan of rye whiskey
There are a lot more choices out there, but everything that I listed is solid and very reasonably priced
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