It’s tradition to celebrate the Kentucky Derby with free-flowing mint juleps. Whether making a classic version or putting a spin on it, you’ll still want to stock up on bourbon. The corn-based American whiskey is one of the most beloved spirits worldwide and, luckily for all its fans out there, comes in plenty of good options under $50, with some under $30. Any one of these bourbons is a great foundation for derby day drinks — and for a well-stocked home bar.
Prices and availability are subject to change.
Related: Spirits and Mixers Every Home Bar Should Have
Heaven’s Door Straight American Bourbon
At 44 percent alcohol by volume, this bourbon is a little higher in alcohol than many standard examples. This means cocktails will be potent — especially useful when using the usual crushed ice.
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Noble Oak Double Oak Bourbon
$40 from Flaviar
This double-oaked spirit picks up satisfying sweet and caramelized flavors from extended wood aging. It’s ideal for those who like drinks on the sweet side, or for recipes that use otherwise tart or even spicy flavors.Related: The Best (and Worst) Costco Liquor to Buy
Jim Beam Single Barrel Bourbon
$45 from Total Wine
This single-barrel release offers unique flavors that are distinct to the particular barrel selected for bottling. Cocktails where the nuances of the bourbon will shine are ideal.
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Woodford Reserve Bourbon
A tried and true classic that’s extremely affordable, and a favorite among many bourbon drinkers for its smooth body. Useful in any recipe, or just for sipping on its own, this is a solid choice.
Maker’s Mark Bourbon
$22 from Total Wine
Another reliable classic, and a favorite that is easy to find across the country. A safe bet, especially when looking for a bourbon that is easy to mix with.
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1792 Full Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Full proof means the bourbon hasn’t had any water added to bring down the alcohol by volume. With nearly 63 percent ABV, this is a powerhouse of a whiskey that could benefit from mixing with other low- or no-alcohol ingredients.
Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon
Another iconic bourbon, the namesake pioneer of the brand is often credited with being the first to age his whiskey in charred oak barrels. A highly awarded yet still affordable option, this is also easy to find around the country.
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Four Roses Bourbon
Well known by bourbon drinkers for its incredible value and well balanced flavors, Four Roses’ signature bottling is delicious and affordable. Many of its other special bottlings are also reasonably priced.
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Old Forester 100 Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon
$28 from Total Wine
This 50 percent ABV bourbon comes from Kentucky, the state most steeped in bourbon history. The added strength creates full-flavored drinks for those who like to taste the booze in their cocktails.For more great guides to spirits and other beverages, please sign up for our free newsletters.
Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon
$40 from Flaviar
One of the most renowned bourbon producers, Buffalo Trace knows a thing or two about good whiskey. Its entry-level, namesake whiskey is a standard among bourbon fans and hands-down offers incredible value.
William Wolf Bourbon
Hailing from South Carolina, this bourbon shows off some of the newer distilling efforts of the east coast. It may be a bit tricky to find in every state, but it has national distribution, which means it should be available across the country.
