Last Updated on March 1, 2024 by Lydia Martin
While some bourbons may be rare or more difficult to find, many easy to find options are widely available at most liquor stores and online.
Some of these bourbons are known for their smooth taste and easy drinkability, making them great choices for both novice and experienced bourbon drinkers.
If you’re outside Kentucky or far enough from the state, don’t worry, we’ll give you the best easy to find bourbons. Let’s start.
Top 15 Easy To Find Bourbons To Try
15. Rabbit Hole Cavehill
Average Price: approx. $59.95 per 750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 47.5% ABV
Why We Like It: This is a great entry for those looking for something more interesting but afraid to go too far on the line.
It’s readily available, so you can always try its interesting flavors.
The not-too-sweet flavor combination with traditional spice and finish makes it an approachable drink.
This may not wow you at first, but its clean and bright profile will surely intrigue you.
14. Russell’s Reserve 10 Year
Average Price: approx. $39.99 per 750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 45% ABV
Why We Like It: We like the smooth and complex flavors of Russell’s Reserve 10 Year, complemented by a great finish.
Its enticing aroma features a sweet and distinct pumpkin pie flavor.
A smooth and creamy finish follows its vanilla and maple syrup notes on the palate.
If you want to savor its profile, we recommend drinking it neat than mixing it in a cocktail.
13. Bardstown Bourbon Company Fusion #5
Average Price: approx. $60 per 750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 47.45% ABV
Why We Like It: As you sniff, expect the aroma of butterscotch with hints of vanilla and caramel. Its high-corn ratio with malt brings out the pudding flavor.
It develops a tasty finish with canned fruit notes. Beginners may find the flavors odd initially, but it becomes great the more you sip.
Overall, it’s a decent choice of bourbon you can easily grab.
12. Wild Turkey Longbranch
Average Price: approx. $40 per 750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 43% ABV
Why We Like It: This bottle could’ve been a standard Turkey 101 under $25, but it did something different.
It has a distinct theme that works well and is the perfect summer drink.
The combo of Christmas spices and creamy vanilla creates a rich and satisfying blend.
The palate adds hints of orange oil and butter toffee, finishing with a satisfying sweet smoke note.
11. Old Forester 100
Average Price: approx. $26.99 per 750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 50% ABV
Why We Like It: The aroma of this old-timer is rich and layered with cocoa and fresh cornmeal.
It’s full of bourbon, packed with dark chocolate, sweet cornbread, and cinnamon– a powerful and refined expression.
It’s undeniably delicious with a creamy mouthfeel; you’ll find yourself wanting some more sips. Overall, a great value bourbon.
10. Jim Beam Black Extra-Aged
Average Price: approx. $22.99 per 750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 43% ABV
Why We Like It: Exceptional and easy-to-find expressions? Definitely, Jim Beam Black Extra-Aged.
You can easily purchase a bottle, it’s affordable, and it doesn’t disappoint.
The aroma features a combination of soft oak and vanilla; on the palate are refined addition of popcorn and caramel.
The finish lingers with the tobacco and cherry flavors.
9. Michter’s US*1 Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Average Price: approx. $39.99 per 750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 45.7% ABV
Why We Like It: Another widely available bottle is Michter’s US*1– a Kentucky Bourbon we highly recommend to anyone who loves Scotch but wants to try something different.
It’s the kind of whiskey that gets people hooked on the American way.
There’s no over-the-top or fussiness in this drink due to its nice layers of vanilla, maple, cedar, and tobacco.
8. Maker’s Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky
Average Price: approx. $21 per 750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 45% ABV
Why We Like It: Available in most liquor stores, this is a great bottle for a great price.
While not as impressive as some of the world’s best whiskeys, it still manages to get the job done with its impeccable on-the-rocks [1] pour and Manhattan-base character.
The mellow hints of sour cherry and dried grains are followed by salted caramel with a dash of spice on the palate.
The finish is a bit lighter, with notes of dark cherry and soft spices.
You may also want to check out this bourbon taste and flavor chart here.
7. Hudson Baby Bourbon Whiskey
Average Price: approx. $40 per 375ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 46% ABV
Why We Like It: You’re probably surprised to see this bottle, but Huson Baby Bourbon can give a unique experience worthy of a place on this list.
“Hudson Whiskey is the original innovator, a whiskey as bold as New York. It shook things up when it started a movement here, and now, once again, we will set the tone for what New York whiskey can be.”
— Paul Coffey, Hudson Whiskey Senior Brand Manager.
Aside from the fact that it’s easily available, it’s also an easy drink. We like the well-balanced flavors and the smoothness of every sip.
It’s light, sweet, and beginner-friendly but a little pricey.
6. Knob Creek 9-Year Bourbon
Average Price: approx. $36 per 750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 50% ABV
Why We Like It: This classic is an easy-going drink elevated with a serious amount of depth and nuance.
A balanced blend of cinnamon, bourbon, and popcorn brings a hint of cherry to the nose.
The palate is filled with orange oils and almond shells, combining cinnamon rolls and vanilla icing.
The finish has a hint of old leather that wraps around a cherry tobacco leaf.
Also Read:
5. Four Roses Small Batch
Average Price: approx. $30 per 750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 45% ABV
Why We Like It: Not just easy to find, but also an easy sipper. This is very simple to drink and perfect for making simple yet delicious cocktail recipes.
The aroma is filled with sweet and juicy apple and cherry woods, followed by salted notes with hints of berries and sweetgrass on the palate.
It finishes with a touch of vanilla tobacco and a good dose of winter spice.
4. Evan Williams Small Batch
Average Price: approx. $19.99 per 750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 45% ABV
Why We Like It: This expression lets you experience the combination of leather and vanilla, bringing forth warm and fresh-looking cornbread touched by oak.
We like the sweet and creamy flavors of the caramel apple with a short yet sweet finish and a touch of brown spice.
3. Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon
Average Price: approx. $32 per 750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 47% ABV
Why We Like It: One of the most dependable pickups on the market is Elijah Craig. This small batch [2] bourbon is filled with flavors, delivering a great sweet spot drink.
Its smooth and complex character is a great addition to the all-time favorite cocktail– Gold Rush– but also an excellent sipper, whether neat or straight up.
2. Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon
Average Price: around $25 per 750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 50.5% ABV
Why We Like It: Widely available in 1L, 750ml, and minis, this high-proof, high-quality, yet budget-friendly bourbon is as impressive as premium expressions.
As one of the brand’s popular expressions, it delivers a consistently exceptional pour that’s smooth and flavorful you can enjoy in various ways.
Its classic flavors and versatile characteristics make it an ideal choice for any occasion.
1. Woodford Reserve Double Oaked
Average Price: approx. $49.99 per 750ml (MSRP)
Alcohol Content: 45.2% ABV
Why We Like It: The unique flavor of this double-barreled whiskey is created through the process of aging in new white oak barrels, producing a smooth, full-bodied bourbon with a long, creamy finish.
Imagine finding such an exceptional bottle almost anywhere at a reasonable price.
This is an easy grab, and you’re assured that you’re getting the best experience. Impressive, indeed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it easier to find rare bourbons in Kentucky?
You can find rare bourbons in Kentucky, but it depends on the expression you’re looking for. This state is called the bourbon market’s “ground zero,” where most bourbon is made [3].
Most distilleries keep some rare expressions in-state, so you can find better odds there.
What is the best state to buy bourbon?
The best state to buy bourbon is none other than its mother state, Kentucky. You can find almost any kind of bourbon there.
What is the best easy to find bourbon?
For an easily accessible and widely available bourbon, options like Buffalo Trace, Maker’s Mark, and Woodford Reserve are often recommended, providing a balance of quality, flavor, and affordability that appeals to a broad range of whiskey enthusiasts.
What is the No 1 bourbon in the world?
Determining the number one bourbon globally is subjective and depends on personal preferences, but bourbons like Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve, George T. Stagg, and William Larue Weller, often part of the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, are frequently regarded as some of the finest and most sought-after in the whiskey world.
What is a good bourbon drink for beginners?
For beginners exploring bourbon, a classic and approachable choice is the Bourbon Sour, made by combining bourbon with fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and ice, creating a balanced and refreshing cocktail that allows newcomers to appreciate the spirit’s flavors without overwhelming the palate.
What is the smoothest bourbon to drink straight?
The smoothness of bourbon can vary, but options like Blanton’s, Angel’s Envy, and Basil Hayden’s are often lauded for their smooth and mellow profiles, making them enjoyable choices for sipping straight without the need for additional mixers.
Is Jack Daniel’s a bourbon?
No, Jack Daniel’s does not qualify as bourbon. Although it shares some production similarities with bourbon, such as being a Tennessee whiskey and meeting the mash bill requirements, the additional charcoal filtering process known as the Lincoln County Process sets it apart, preventing it from meeting the specific criteria needed to be classified as bourbon.
What is the smoothest bourbon?
Determining the smoothest bourbon is subjective and depends on individual taste preferences, but options like Blanton’s, Angel’s Envy, and Maker’s Mark are often recognized for their smooth and mellow profiles, making them appealing to those who appreciate a gentle and easy-drinking bourbon.
What bourbon is John Wick drinking?
In the John Wick film series, the character John Wick, portrayed by Keanu Reeves, is frequently seen drinking Blanton’s Bourbon. The distinctive bottle design featuring a horse and jockey stopper has become iconic, contributing to the popularity of Blanton’s among fans of the movies.
Is Jack Daniel’s No. 7 bourbon?
No, Jack Daniel’s No. 7 is not classified as bourbon. Despite sharing some production similarities, such as having a mash bill with at least 51% corn, Jack Daniel’s undergoes an additional charcoal mellowing process known as the Lincoln County Process. This distinction places it in the category of Tennessee whiskey rather than bourbon.
Who is the king of bourbon?
The title of the “king of bourbon” is subjective and varies among enthusiasts, but iconic figures like Colonel Edmund Haynes Taylor Jr., recognized for his contributions to the bourbon industry, and revered brands like Pappy Van Winkle often hold esteemed positions in the bourbon world.
Which bourbons to buy?
Selecting bourbons to buy depends on individual taste preferences and availability, but popular choices often include Buffalo Trace, Woodford Reserve, and Four Roses Single Barrel for their quality and versatility. Limited editions like Pappy Van Winkle, Eagle Rare, and Blanton’s are highly sought after by enthusiasts willing to explore rarer and more collectible options. Exploring a range of mash bills, aging processes, and flavor profiles can help enthusiasts discover bourbons that align with their preferences and provide a diverse and enjoyable tasting experience.
Final Verdict: Best Easy To Find Bourbon
These bottles are sure winners when you need exceptional bourbons that you can find anywhere and are easily available.
Be it neat, straight up [4], or in cocktails, these bourbon selections assure you always have something eminent in your glass, regardless of the occasion.
While they’re easy to find, they are also easy on the budget as these bottles don’t cost that much, and you know you’re getting the quality and drinking experience you deserve.
References:
- https://www.thespruceeats.com/tips-for-serving-drinks-on-the-rocks-759946
- https://www.gearpatrol.com/food/drinks/a112982/8-basic-bourbon-terms-everyone-should-know/
- https://www.cnbc.com/2013/09/24/10-things-you-didnt-know-about-kentucky-bourbon.html
- https://www.thedailymeal.com/neat-straight-and-rocks-how-order-cocktail/42414
