The 10 Best Bourbon Whiskeys Under $50 to Enjoy This Fall
Fall is the perfect time to savor rich, warming bourbon whiskeys. With the air turning crisp and the leaves changing color, there’s nothing quite like sipping a glass of bourbon to complement the season. The good news is that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy high-quality bourbon. Plenty of excellent options exist under $50 that bring out those quintessential caramel, vanilla, and oak flavors.
Here are 10 of the best bourbon whiskeys under $50, and a classic bourbon cocktail recipe to enjoy this fall.
1. Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage
Price: ~$30
ABV: 43.3%
Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage is a masterclass in value. Aged for nearly a decade, this bourbon offers a deep, complex profile with notes of caramel, vanilla, and dried fruits. Its rich and slightly spicy finish makes it a perfect sipping companion for the cooler fall months.
Why it’s perfect for fall: Its toasty, vanilla-forward character pairs beautifully with autumn evenings.
2. Buffalo Trace
Price: ~$45
ABV: 45%
Buffalo Trace is widely known for its consistent quality and balance. With sweet toffee, ripe fruit, and subtle spice notes, this bourbon is versatile enough to sip neat, mix into cocktails, or enjoy alongside hearty fall meals like roasted pork or caramelized vegetables.
Why it’s perfect for fall: Its sweet and spicy balance complements the flavors of seasonal pies and roasted foods.
3. Four Roses Small Batch
Price: ~$40
ABV: 45%
Four Roses Small Batch is crafted from four distinct bourbon recipes that result in a perfectly balanced whiskey. On the nose, you’ll find cinnamon and ripe berries, while the palate brings honey, vanilla, and a hint of oak. It’s smooth and flavorful, making it an ideal fall sipper.
Why it’s perfect for fall: Its warm spice notes and sweet finish complement the season’s flavors, like baked apples and cinnamon.
4. Old Forester 100 Proof
Price: ~$28
ABV: 50%
Old Forester 100 Proof is a bold bourbon that packs plenty of punch for its price. With deep flavors of caramel, chocolate, and toasted oak, this full-bodied bourbon is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of strength in their whiskey.
Why it’s perfect for fall: The higher proof and robust flavors make it the perfect choice for warming up on a cool night.
5. Wild Turkey 101
Price: ~$25
ABV: 50.5%
Wild Turkey 101 is a classic bourbon known for its strong rye content and bold, spicy character. With flavors of cinnamon, toffee, and a touch of vanilla, this bourbon offers a warming, spicy kick that is great for cooler temperatures.
Why it’s perfect for fall: The rye-forward spice is ideal for pairing with savory fall dishes or sipping around a bonfire.
6. Maker’s Mark
Price: ~$35
ABV: 45%
Maker’s Mark is made with wheat, which gives it a soft, smooth sweetness. Notes of caramel, honey, and a hint of fruit make it easy to sip, and its slightly lower proof ensures a mellow, enjoyable drinking experience.
Why it’s perfect for fall: The smooth and sweet profile is great for pairing with lighter fall desserts like pumpkin pie or shortbread cookies.
7. Knob Creek Small Batch
Price: ~$45
ABV: 50%
Knob Creek Small Batch is known for its big, bold flavors. With rich notes of toasted oak, maple syrup, and a hint of nutmeg, this bourbon brings warmth and depth to any glass. It’s perfect for those who like their bourbon full-bodied and flavorful.
Why it’s perfect for fall: The dark, rich flavors pair beautifully with fall dishes like roasted meats and savory pies.
8. Woodford Reserve
Price: ~$40
ABV: 45.2%
Woodford Reserve is a well-balanced bourbon with notes of dried fruit, vanilla, and a hint of spice. Its smooth, creamy texture makes it an ideal sipping bourbon, while its layered flavors work wonderfully in cocktails.
Why it’s perfect for fall: The dried fruit and spice notes mirror the season’s flavors, making it a great pairing for baked goods or spiced dishes.
9. Elijah Craig Small Batch
Price: ~$35
ABV: 47%
Elijah Craig Small Batch stands out in the under $50 category, offering rich caramel, vanilla, and oak flavors with a touch of spice. It’s well-rounded, smooth, and ideal for both sipping and mixing.
Why it’s perfect for fall: The caramel and vanilla flavors make it a comforting choice for autumn evenings, especially when enjoyed with seasonal dishes.
10. Larceny Small Batch
Price: ~$30
ABV: 46%
Larceny is a wheat bourbon, similar to Maker’s Mark, but with a slightly higher proof and richer flavor profile. With notes of butterscotch, honey, and warm spices, this bourbon is smooth, sweet, and ideal for those who enjoy softer, sweeter bourbons.
Why it’s perfect for fall: The honeyed sweetness makes it ideal for sipping while watching the leaves change or enjoying a fall dessert.
Make this delightful Maple Old Fashioned as a perfect companion to the season's flavors!
Classic Fall Cocktail: Maple Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is a bourbon classic, but this fall-inspired version adds a touch of maple syrup to bring in the season’s sweetness. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
2 oz bourbon (Buffalo Trace, Woodford Reserve, or Knob Creek work great)
1/2 oz pure maple syrup
2 dashes of Angostura bitters
Orange peel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Combine bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters in a mixing glass.
2. Fill the glass with ice and stir until well-chilled.
3. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
4. Express the oil from the orange peel over the drink, then use the peel as a garnish.
