Well, it appears that Jack Daniels, as some Tennesseans have told me, is not a Bourbon after all. I always claimed it to be a bourbon. I will admit that Jack Daniels is not the same as it was when it was 90 proof. But, it is still a big seller. I prefer it over Jim Beam regular bottled bourbon. Which I like too.
10 місяців тому
Lol bourbon, jack daniels has all the requirements of a bourbon the only thing that makes it « tenessee whiskey » just because of their charcoal filterîg, they invented « tenessee whiskey » becaus bourbon is everywhere jack daniels then can demark itself sayin no it’s not bourbon but it is lol just did go trough a layer of maple charcoal ^^ so for me it’s the sae i love bourbon and i wouldn’t chiose bourbon vs tenessee whiskey ^^ cheers from France anyway colleagues bourbon enthusiats
I'm glad Evan Williams black label made the list. It's my favorite bourbon mixer. Love it with ice and zero Pepsi. The white label bottled in bond 100 proof is also a good choice. Another one I like is Jim Beam rye, also mixed with ice and zero Pepsi. These all are delicious night caps.
I used to work security at Wild Turkey, back before they tore down the old distillery buildings. If you knew the stuff I saw floating in those fermentation tanks, you'd think twice about drinking it. Bugs, dead birds, a dead kitten, etc. They all fell in there and drowned. I never heard anything about them being removed, they'd float and then sink out of sight. Jimmy, the master distiller, was also one of the biggest a-holes I've ever met. I had an emergency at the facility and he was the only member of management that bothered to answer his phone. Treated me like I was a scumbag for disturbing his majesty.
Old Forester 86 is a great 86, like VOB and a bunch of others. OF 86 is the well bourbon for a lot of better bars. I have tried to get a bottle of VOB for a while without luck. The bottom shelves around here are stocked with a lot of paint thinner. I found Benchmark 8. It's ok. Not my set up, but I can see how others would like it. I prefer the BT mashbill no. 2. I tend to like everything from that. I also miss Ancient Ancient Age 😞 You won't see bourbon that old for that price ever again. Best out of the bottle whiskey I ever had under a king's ransom.
I agree with your selections. It's always interesting to compare prices to what I pay in the Kansas City Market. WT101and WT101 Rye I can usually get on sale for $20-$23. Evan Williams BiB runs me.$18-19, although just a couple of years ago I was getting it for $14-15. I picked up my first bottle of Very Old Barton 100 proof last week for $15. It's a decent bourbon, but I prefer other higher proof options for a few bucks more.
Evan Williams black label is my go to mixer, preferred over JD. I also like the 1783, but more as a sipper, the White Label BiB as both a mixer and sipper. The JTS Brown, also a Heaven Hill product, is another favorite of mine, and just recently discovered Fighting Cock, another Heaven Hill product, that I think compares very well to Wild Turkey 101. Loved this comparison, looking forward to more like this.
I'm happy there are a lot more reviews now for the $20, $30, and $40 prices for 750 ml. The only time I will spend more than $40 is for Thanksgiving to New Years, blowing my usual budget.
As a fellow VA resident I've gone in this direction rather than chasing the allocated stuff. EWBiB, Old Forester 100, and Old GrandDad Bonded are now my go-to's and they're all under that $25ish price point. Ezra Brooks 99 is really good too - but I think it's $28ish so a little over the price limit. For whatever reason, I just haven't been a fan of Wild Turkey but might have to give it another chance.
Absolutely agree with EWBiB, OF 100, and OGD bonded. But wild turkey 101 is my ultimate go-to. Also, a little more expensive than the point of this UA-cam review, but Old Grand Dad 114 is worth including.
Agreed 100%. I can get OGD BIB and Benchmark Full Proof for less than JD #7. Both are way better. The JD #7 is drinkable. It’s just not worth the price they are asking now.
I was just in the Philippines for 3 weeks and I brought a few $30 bourbons with me. You cannot get American bourbon there so this was quite the treat for my buddies there. Any of your listed “better than Jack” bourbons would have sufficed for enjoying bourbon in the Philippines. After 20 hours or flying and 4 hours of driving I arrived home at 0315 am. What bourbon did I reach for on my shelf? I had about 4 fingers of Basil Hayden left and I grabbed it and finished it. I was glad to be home in the land of great bourbons! We are very lucky here to have the bourbons we have. Even the bottom shelf stuff we have here is NOT that bad!
As of a couple weeks ago the Very Old Barton 86 proof was on the list of bottles that you can have shipped to your store in Virginia, which was a surprise to me since it is never in my local ABC store. It took about a week to show up. I would have put the 3 Old Forester options in this group as well, even though one of them is a rye.
I don't know what they might cost in your area, but old Forester 86 and 100 are both substantially better and cheaper bourbons than jack #7 in every state that I've traveled to. That being said, I can say that the rest of the list is spot on. Some of the cheaper ones might not necessarily be better but are for sure cheaper.
Rebel Yell is the bomb! It was like $11.00/750ml and tastes like what JD wants to be when it grows up. It's like $20 or so now, because people are catching on.
Evan Williams BIB and Wild Turkey 101 is all I drink anymore, I tried branching out for a while trying alot of others but nothing compared so I'm sticking with my 2 favorites.. Happy drinking everyone..
I agree with the quality of the two new Jacks but at $30-35 they don't fit with the rest of these and actually I wish they were both $10 less. Then they absolutely would. I think if they were $10 less they would be taking more of a share of the bottled in bond market, but I'm sure they're happy with how they have done.
@@BigBadJerryRogers Totally agree a bit steep in price for only 700ml. I’m a longtime Jack Daniel’s fan so I had to try them, I love their Single Barrels too!
Just bought my first bottle of Very Old Barton on a whim several weeks ago, priced at ~$20 and was amazed at how good it was as a mixer with coke (the soft drink!) Definitely will by again for the economy, but also for the taste. A real gem!
Right on with very old Barton. I would put it up against Evan Williams, 1783 or any of the other Evan Williams bourbon. It is hard to find, but worth the search in my opinion. It’s not invisible, but you have to look for it, and you will be rewarded!
I saw the 750 ml bottle of JTS Brown in my store I'm south side of Richmond. That's not to say they always have them. But JTS Brown I've seen pretty often. Didn't know it was such a good bourbon
I was never JD fan but I did find a Jack Daniels Whiskey I do like. I'm on my 3rd bottle of it. It's Jack Daniels single barrel, Barrel proof. This bottle is 130 proof. I've found out the last couple of years I really like a high proof bourbon/Whiskey. I drank Crown Reserve for many years. I drink my bourbon straight up I don't like anything mixed with it.
I agree 100% with your list, and I have all those bottles you listed and they are cheaper in my area. Surprised you didn't mention 1783, and benchmark and VOB 86 are my go to for mixers and easy sippers. Also the VOB 86 is better than the VOB 100 IMO, but you might like it because it has the rye spice you like . 🥃🥃🥃
From what i see, Buffalo Trace is in all the stores here in Brooklyn. But its more expensive than JD, selling for $39 for 750ml. Theres a few of them though, they also have a Buffalo Trace Kosher Rye, and Kosher Wheat. With a promo from Uber Eats i just ordered a bottle for $33, and itll be here in 20 minutes. Im glad i watched this, and excited to try it out.
Thanks for a really helpful video! I buy liquor as gifts for my drinking friends and knowing a bit more about it makes it much easier to get something they will actually enjoy. I like a sip now and then myself but not often enough to make an informed decision. This list will be very handy indeed.
JD quality dropped big time in the 80s when they watered it down to 86 than yet again until I didn't care for it at all, when I was young it was WT 101 or JD I still love anything WT except the 81 proofs, you have some great picks I can't disagree with any of them, The VOB 100 which was temporarily marked as a BIB is really good especially considering I can get it for around 15 bucks.
wild turkey 101 and buffalo trace are wonderful at the price, the jim beam extra is a little sweet (well at least the bottle I have is) and I don't like it for sipping as much. Also pendlton, I think I spelt that correctly is about the same price in Cali and is a decent sipper. If you want value and like Scottish whiskey hard to go wrong with the gallon of 12 year from Costco brand, very nice.
Good product comparisons, completely agree with all. I prefer the WT 101, (rye and straight,) ET and OF group for sippers, rocks or straight up. EW white and black for cocktails, Jack Daniels never. JD actually has a somewhat disagreeable taste for me, even with the very common Coke mix the others listed suit my palate better. An old friend with a very knowledgeable palate drinks JD, it's his preferred bourbon, so it has appeal for many bourbon fans and I can't knock that. Nice video, thanks.
I know you can't list EVERYTHING - but I just picked up another bottle of EW 1783 Small Batch - the PX where I live in Virginia has it for $12 and change! Wild Turkey 101 is $23 and change this month too.
Love the video. I have a few of these and like most very much. However I have to say Jack Daniels is a sour mash and for some reason I just do not like sour mashes. I have tried quite a few and for some reason they are kind of heavy and a different kind of chewy to me. Either way, one of my favorites of the one's you presented is Jim Beam Black, which to me, has a totally different flavor profile than regular Jim Beam. Thanks for the video.
Back in the 90's, Evan Williams black was the go to budget substitute for Old No. 7! Very Old Barton 90 and 100 are both great for the price. These days, Wild Turkey 101 is my go to daily drinker. I can sip it neat and on ice, and its cheap enough to justify in a cocktail.
It's crazy to me how many people sleep on EW BiB. It has been on my go to list for so long if you keep your eyes open I have seen the handles on sale at the virginia abc for under 25 and I pick one up every time I see that.
Great video! I love hearing about good daily sippers that are affordable and available. A couple I like that are close to the same price are Johnny Drum, and Evan Williams 10 year which is around $30. I've been lucky finding BT for $27 and Eagle Rare for around $50 frequently enough to keep me stocked for the last several months, as my two fave go-to bottles!
I like a smooth drinking bourbon, but I haven't tried very many. Many many Years ago I tried Jack Daniels and I wasn't a fan. But lately I tried regular Evan Williams and regular Jim Beam here in NC. I preferred the Jim Beam, drinking it at a very cold temperature neat as shots. It also fit a price range I could afford on my low income in the 1.75 liters for about 30 bucks. I would really appreciate any recommendations for a better bourbon or a higher proof one at the same smoothness at about the same price point. I know that's leaves very little wiggle room to work with, but I'm disabled on low income. Believe me I'm gonna save this video in case I have the chance to try one of the better bourbons someday.
GIT!!!! Here in the UK I had to pay just over £30 for the EW black label, that's close to US$40!!!!! I do however prefer it to JD, I find it easier to drink neat with more and more pleasing notes on both the nose and pallet!
No expert, just started drinking bourbon in September 2022. No concept of good or bad so I just grabbed the on one sale with my name in it. REBEL BOURBON, for me it was a great experience with the first sip so it’s my go to bourbon. Did get a Jim bean mid December as there was no Rebel in that store. Scottish born and raised but whiskey and I never got on well together. I went for Vodka and Bacardi in Europe, and Rye when I ended up ln Canada. Any comments on “Good, Bad, and or Ugly” appreciated. 🏴🇨🇦
I got the benchmark 8 recently after watching this video and I really like it and am having some now. Good price too here in Australia where liquor is stupidly taxed.
Great video. I have only tried the BT, EWBIB, and WT101 and I could not agree with you more. I think all 3 blow JD away especially the BT and EWBIB. I have not tried the EW black label. You said it was similar to JD and I do not like JD so not sure if I want to try it. It has been a while since I have tried JB black but I am pretty sure I liked it so might try it again. I am pretty sure the BM8 is on the shelf at our local store so I might not try that as well. I do not think I have seen any of the other ones. The EWBIB is a great value. I think it is around $16 here. I am fairly new to bourbon because years ago when I first tried whiskey people were drinking JD and JB white label and I do not like either so it turned me off from bourbon. A couple of years ago when I discovered that there was much better bourbon it got me to drink it more often. I am not sure if they are less in your neck of the woods but I would add Old Forester 86, Buillett, and Four roses to the list.
I was hoping you would rate Benchmark. I bought a bottle just to marinade stake in a few years ago and it became my go to. It is an absolute VALUE in my opinion best whisky for the price
I was fortunate today and was able to pick up 3 bottles of Buffalo Trace and 3 bottles of Weller Special Reserve at 3 different Binny’s in northern Illinois. 1 bottle limit at each location.
Here in New Brunswick Canada we cannot get jts Brown or very old bartons. JD is 35.99 taxes in . It's weird how different every thing else is wild turkey 101 is 40.29 Buffalo trace is widely available at 42.99 Jim beam black is 32.99 ( devils cut is on special this month for 30.99) Evan Williams bib is 36.99 so one dollar more & black is 28.50 so almost 8.00 cheaper than jd. Benchmark is scarce here. But 28.00 . The Canadian dollar is weak and such but crazy now much the prices vary
Buffalo Trace is $49.99 in Pa, but currently out of stock. Can you tell me a reputable place with a good price to pick some up. Would greatly appreciate it. Love the channel. Thanks
I wish you could show the label or say the name again at the end. Thanks, my former husband used to say"That Jack Daniel's ought to be paying us child support!" Thanks for the video, I shared it!!!
Probably the first list of seen from anyone that I completely agree with, outside of Benchmark and Barton, not available in my area. My only gripe is that No7 receives so much hate for no reason. It serves it purpose, and it's low proof makes it ideal for those "f" it let's drink all day kind of days. JD has really good products if you look past No7
Not that I’m defending JD, nor is it on my shelf, but what is the deal with the attitude of “certain” bourbon drinkers towards it? If you are reading this and don’t know what I mean by “certain”, you are likely one of them. The best bourbon is the bourbon you like, the way you like to drink it.
@@Schneids71 IMO it's because of its low proof, and fairy light flavors, and just overall size of the brand. It serves its purpose, makes a hell of a whiskey and coke with the banana notes.
Evan Williams Black is my go to for Manhattans. It's ~$22 for the handle at Costco. Of the others you mentioned, Wild Turkey 101 and Evan Williams White Label are available in my area, Charleston, SC. I have been wanting to try the Wild Turkey 101. I can get Buffalo Trace in bars here and I bought a bottle in New Mexico last year. I like it. I don't like it enough to pay more than MSRP. $25 for a 750 is a lot when I am used to paying that for a 1.75. I think Makers Mark is as good as BT, I can get it at Costco, and it is a better buy that BTin many cases. We also have Woodford available that I would like to try.
Ironically Buffalo Trace is readily available in Jacksonville FL, but goddamn does the price vary. I got a bottle for $29.99, and I’ve seen a 750ml as high as $54.99.. it’s funny bc Buffalo Trace came in dead last place in our blind of Wild Turkey 101, Elijah Craig SB, 1792 SB, and Buffalo Trace. Trace had the most perceived burn of them all being the lowest proof. I’m wayyy out on BT especially with the price fluctuations (currently sipping the Old Forester 1920)
Just to start. I love old number 7. love it. Down here in Perth W.A according to your pricing on the video, it is almost double for us. That makes being a connoisseur too damned expensive to try something different just in case it's crap.
The more time I spend searching for impossible to find bourbons, the less Time I have to drink. My collection right now: 1/4 bottle of wild 101, 1/2 bottle of EWBIB. And whatever I pick up on the way home tonight. I don't know how people have collections. If I like it, I drink it.
I like Knob Creek & Wild Turkey. I will try the Buffalo Trace. I see it at Rite Aid store (Northern California). Great video. Thank you for the suggestions.
Old Grandad 100 pr I used to buy when I was in the Army in Germany for $3.45 a QUART, in 1974, 1975. That I always thought was the premium bourbon. One time I bought Southern Gentleman for giggles. Not bad for a cheap bourbon. Mixed or on the rocks.
I live in central Missouri. For years we enjoyed Buffalo Trace and WL Wellers at a reasonable price. I cannot remember the last time I saw a bottle for sale in a liquor store. Unicorns.
liked and subscribed. i'm drinking the evan williams black right now, and loving it with coke. i prefer the george dickel in a slightly higher price range--maybe about ten dollars more for two handles than 2 handles of the evan williams. my store offers a ten percent discount when you buy two. prices seem to fluctuate and i usually go for the bargain. gotta have old grandad from time to time.
Being very budget minded (i.e. "a cheap B......"), I am always looking for less expensive variations of old favorites. Benchmark is a staple in my house as are Evan Williams white and black labels. I prefer Beam to Jack, but both are great choices, though I honestly find some of these cheaper offerings to be their equal or better. In my neck of the woods Wild Turkey 101 is only a pinch more than JD and as you noted, well worth it.
At my store here in Florida, I get WT 101 for $21.99, BT for 19.99(when they have it), Also while I was there I picked up two bottles of MM brt-01 for $59. I left six more on the shelf 😊
I'm 64 and have been drinking whiskey from about 1978 but I have been around this world and have tried whiskey from Ireland, Japan Even some rotgut German and just about every kind of whiskey from the United States and Canada so to agree with you I can't. But as with truth you have the right of your opinion and I do respect that but I believe JD has the best sipping whiskey there is. Sorry but that is my opinion. A 3 shot glass with nothing but ice is the best. Keep sipping friend.
In PA the price of Jack Daniels has skyrocketed. But I have never gotten a peanut note from it. The only whiskey that I get a distinct peanut note from is Jim Beam White Label and Jim Beam Old Tub. That being said, I never buy Jack becuase of how expensive it is. If I'm buying American whiskey it's either Jim Beam or Evan Williams or I will go with a blended Scotch whiskey. If I'm treating myself I will go Wild Turkey or Makers Mark, both which are still cheaper then Jack Daniels.
I've tried all except for Barton and JTS Brown and I agree totally. Wild Turkey would be tops followed by Beam black label then Evan Williams white label
The bourbon market has so may excellent options! It’s fun when you get an allocated at MSRP but knowing this midrange portfolio is fun as well.. I also enjoy educating someone who may not have experienced all that is out there. Thanks David!
So what do u guys think of Screwball? I make an old fashioned with 1 shot Screwball and 1 shot bourbon no sugar or syrup and everything else the classic recipe. I love it
I live in Los Angeles, and we can't get away from Buffalo Trace... Typical price is $22 to $26. I can find 7 or 8 places within 5 miles from my house that has it! If you can find it, "Old Tub" a bottled in Bond product from Jim Beam costs about $22 is a great option instead of Jack... I also found a bottle of Benchmark Full Proof for $19 which also blows Jack away!
Evan Williams bottled in bond ($), Wild turkey 101 ($), Jim beam extra aged ($), Elijah Craig small batch ($$), and old forester 1910 ($$$). All are good but have different tasting notes
Very accurate. 5 or 6 are available in Ontario, Canada. It puzzles me that Buffalo Trace is hard to find when it is every liquor store(LCBO)in Ontario. I guess if you are ever visiting Ontario you can pick up some Buffalo Trace. It runs about $42 CDN so probably $30 USD tax included.
I stopped to watch this just to see if you included BenchMark 8. I stupidly told too many people about it and now it gets hard to find it sometimes here in Virginia (Williamsburg area)
WOW... I'm living in Poland and you can buy JD Old No.7 for approx. 25 USD pe liter. So it's cheaper even though we have really high taxes for alkohol and additional taxes if its imported... I'm shocked.
Bourbon vs Tennessee Whiskey
thewhiskeywash.com/whiskey-styles/american-whiskey/tennessee-whiskey-and-the-question-of-calling-it-a-bourbon
Bourbon And Sour Mash
thewhiskeywash.com/lifestyle/sour-mash-whiskey/
Cheers!
Plastic bottle liquor or even colognes in plastic bottles, ruins the taste and smell.. Just saying IMO?
The same page said that Jack Daniel's is not a Bourbon.
Well, it appears that Jack Daniels, as some Tennesseans have told me, is not a Bourbon after all. I always claimed it to be a bourbon. I will admit that Jack Daniels is not the same as it was when it was 90 proof. But, it is still a big seller. I prefer it over Jim Beam regular bottled bourbon. Which I like too.
Lol bourbon, jack daniels has all the requirements of a bourbon the only thing that makes it « tenessee whiskey » just because of their charcoal filterîg, they invented « tenessee whiskey » becaus bourbon is everywhere jack daniels then can demark itself sayin no it’s not bourbon but it is lol just did go trough a layer of maple charcoal ^^ so for me it’s the sae i love bourbon and i wouldn’t chiose bourbon vs tenessee whiskey ^^ cheers from France anyway colleagues bourbon enthusiats
How dare you leave off Old Granddad BiB!
100%
OG BiB isn’t cheaper than JD in my town. (It is better, though!)
I'm glad Evan Williams black label made the list. It's my favorite bourbon mixer. Love it with ice and zero Pepsi. The white label bottled in bond 100 proof is also a good choice. Another one I like is Jim Beam rye, also mixed with ice and zero Pepsi. These all are delicious night caps.
Agreed, Evan is the best cheap traditional bourbon for a daily imo
I used to work security at Wild Turkey, back before they tore down the old distillery buildings. If you knew the stuff I saw floating in those fermentation tanks, you'd think twice about drinking it. Bugs, dead birds, a dead kitten, etc. They all fell in there and drowned. I never heard anything about them being removed, they'd float and then sink out of sight. Jimmy, the master distiller, was also one of the biggest a-holes I've ever met. I had an emergency at the facility and he was the only member of management that bothered to answer his phone. Treated me like I was a scumbag for disturbing his majesty.
Old Forester 86 is a great 86, like VOB and a bunch of others. OF 86 is the well bourbon for a lot of better bars. I have tried to get a bottle of VOB for a while without luck. The bottom shelves around here are stocked with a lot of paint thinner. I found Benchmark 8. It's ok. Not my set up, but I can see how others would like it. I prefer the BT mashbill no. 2. I tend to like everything from that. I also miss Ancient Ancient Age 😞 You won't see bourbon that old for that price ever again. Best out of the bottle whiskey I ever had under a king's ransom.
I'd rather watch a video of obtainable value bottom shelfers over top shelf overpriced tater bait. Much appreciated David!
Hear hear!
I agree with your selections. It's always interesting to compare prices to what I pay in the Kansas City Market. WT101and WT101 Rye I can usually get on sale for $20-$23. Evan Williams BiB runs me.$18-19, although just a couple of years ago I was getting it for $14-15. I picked up my first bottle of Very Old Barton 100 proof last week for $15. It's a decent bourbon, but I prefer other higher proof options for a few bucks more.
Evan Williams black label is my go to mixer, preferred over JD. I also like the 1783, but more as a sipper, the White Label BiB as both a mixer and sipper. The JTS Brown, also a Heaven Hill product, is another favorite of mine, and just recently discovered Fighting Cock, another Heaven Hill product, that I think compares very well to Wild Turkey 101. Loved this comparison, looking forward to more like this.
EW black! Yessir. Agree on the 1783. Good stuff.
Evan Williams blows away Jack Daniel's.
Evan is the best value in all of alcohol.
EW BIB + water ( a few drops) = Adventure * Satisfaction
I'm happy there are a lot more reviews now for the $20, $30, and $40 prices for 750 ml. The only time I will spend more than $40 is for Thanksgiving to New Years, blowing my usual budget.
EW BiB is an amazing pour for the money! Its a staple in our collection. Great video
Had my first glass last night - nice surprise coming off of OF100 (not so good).
As a fellow VA resident I've gone in this direction rather than chasing the allocated stuff. EWBiB, Old Forester 100, and Old GrandDad Bonded are now my go-to's and they're all under that $25ish price point. Ezra Brooks 99 is really good too - but I think it's $28ish so a little over the price limit. For whatever reason, I just haven't been a fan of Wild Turkey but might have to give it another chance.
How about Bulleit Frontier Bourbon and Knob Creek 9 yr both under $30
Completely agree. I finally jumped off the BT Distillery merry-go-round. There are just too many other great options.
Ezra! good vale there buddy!
@@nabeelrafique7166 Bulleit is a fav. You are correct sir!
Absolutely agree with EWBiB, OF 100, and OGD bonded. But wild turkey 101 is my ultimate go-to. Also, a little more expensive than the point of this UA-cam review, but Old Grand Dad 114 is worth including.
Agreed 100%. I can get OGD BIB and Benchmark Full Proof for less than JD #7. Both are way better. The JD #7 is drinkable. It’s just not worth the price they are asking now.
A liquor store owner turned me onto Benchmark. It's a lot better than the price would indicate
I was just in the Philippines for 3 weeks and I brought a few $30 bourbons with me. You cannot get American bourbon there so this was quite the treat for my buddies there. Any of your listed “better than Jack” bourbons would have sufficed for enjoying bourbon in the Philippines. After 20 hours or flying and 4 hours of driving I arrived home at 0315 am. What bourbon did I reach for on my shelf? I had about 4 fingers of Basil Hayden left and I grabbed it and finished it. I was glad to be home in the land of great bourbons! We are very lucky here to have the bourbons we have. Even the bottom shelf stuff we have here is NOT that bad!
As of a couple weeks ago the Very Old Barton 86 proof was on the list of bottles that you can have shipped to your store in Virginia, which was a surprise to me since it is never in my local ABC store. It took about a week to show up. I would have put the 3 Old Forester options in this group as well, even though one of them is a rye.
I don't know what they might cost in your area, but old Forester 86 and 100 are both substantially better and cheaper bourbons than jack #7 in every state that I've traveled to. That being said, I can say that the rest of the list is spot on. Some of the cheaper ones might not necessarily be better but are for sure cheaper.
Anything from Old Forester beats this list. JR
OF 86 tasted like paint stripper to me. Hands down the worst bourbon I've ever tasted. Different strokes for different folks I guess!
In VA 86 is $28 and 100 is $40
I'm a fan of Gentleman Jack .... Will have to check out some of these others. If I can find them in Northern Nevada
Rebel Yell is the bomb! It was like $11.00/750ml and tastes like what JD wants to be when it grows up. It's like $20 or so now, because people are catching on.
Isn’t Rebel Yell made by W.L Wellers? I love Wellers best.
Evan Williams BIB and Wild Turkey 101 is all I drink anymore, I tried branching out for a while trying alot of others but nothing compared so I'm sticking with my 2 favorites.. Happy drinking everyone..
Old Forester 86/100 proof also great! Jack Daniel’s Triple Mash/Bonded are really enjoyable, and worth the extra cost.
I agree with the quality of the two new Jacks but at $30-35 they don't fit with the rest of these and actually I wish they were both $10 less. Then they absolutely would. I think if they were $10 less they would be taking more of a share of the bottled in bond market, but I'm sure they're happy with how they have done.
@@BigBadJerryRogers Totally agree a bit steep in price for only 700ml. I’m a longtime Jack Daniel’s fan so I had to try them, I love their Single Barrels too!
I got some Old Tub at our ABC store here in Va Beach. It's really good for $25. Thanks for this list. I will have to try some of these!
Old Tub is great. Here in Oregon it's $23. It's a regular at my home.
Just bought my first bottle of Very Old Barton on a whim several weeks ago, priced at ~$20 and was amazed at how good it was as a mixer with coke (the soft drink!) Definitely will by again for the economy, but also for the taste. A real gem!
Don't you dare lie to us about your cocaine addiction, sir.
@@FakingANerve 🤣🤣
Right on with very old Barton. I would put it up against Evan Williams, 1783 or any of the other Evan Williams bourbon. It is hard to find, but worth the search in my opinion. It’s not invisible, but you have to look for it, and you will be rewarded!
Awesome vid!! I love high value bourbons and you listed many of my favorites. I also hate Jack Daniels no. 7 🍌
I saw the 750 ml bottle of JTS Brown in my store I'm south side of Richmond. That's not to say they always have them. But JTS Brown I've seen pretty often. Didn't know it was such a good bourbon
I was never JD fan but I did find a Jack Daniels Whiskey I do like. I'm on my 3rd bottle of it. It's Jack Daniels single barrel, Barrel proof. This bottle is 130 proof. I've found out the last couple of years I really like a high proof bourbon/Whiskey. I drank Crown Reserve for many years. I drink my bourbon straight up I don't like anything mixed with it.
I'm all in on the EW BiB, JTS Brown only 15 in PA and the Benchmark at the low end. Great list David.
I agree 100% with your list, and I have all those bottles you listed and they are cheaper in my area. Surprised you didn't mention 1783, and benchmark and VOB 86 are my go to for mixers and easy sippers. Also the VOB 86 is better than the VOB 100 IMO, but you might like it because it has the rye spice you like . 🥃🥃🥃
I have also found that the 86 proof is my favorite VOB. The 80 and 100 just don't have the magic for my taste buds. 🤷♂️
From what i see, Buffalo Trace is in all the stores here in Brooklyn.
But its more expensive than JD, selling for $39 for 750ml.
Theres a few of them though, they also have a Buffalo Trace Kosher Rye, and Kosher Wheat.
With a promo from Uber Eats i just ordered a bottle for $33, and itll be here in 20 minutes.
Im glad i watched this, and excited to try it out.
Thanks for a really helpful video! I buy liquor as gifts for my drinking friends and knowing a bit more about it makes it much easier to get something they will actually enjoy. I like a sip now and then myself but not often enough to make an informed decision. This list will be very handy indeed.
JD quality dropped big time in the 80s when they watered it down to 86 than yet again until I didn't care for it at all, when I was young it was WT 101 or JD I still love anything WT except the 81 proofs, you have some great picks I can't disagree with any of them, The VOB 100 which was temporarily marked as a BIB is really good especially considering I can get it for around 15 bucks.
wild turkey 101 and buffalo trace are wonderful at the price, the jim beam extra is a little sweet (well at least the bottle I have is) and I don't like it for sipping as much. Also pendlton, I think I spelt that correctly is about the same price in Cali and is a decent sipper. If you want value and like Scottish whiskey hard to go wrong with the gallon of 12 year from Costco brand, very nice.
Good product comparisons, completely agree with all. I prefer the WT 101, (rye and straight,) ET and OF group for sippers, rocks or straight up. EW white and black for cocktails, Jack Daniels never. JD actually has a somewhat disagreeable taste for me, even with the very common Coke mix the others listed suit my palate better.
An old friend with a very knowledgeable palate drinks JD, it's his preferred bourbon, so it has appeal for many bourbon fans and I can't knock that. Nice video, thanks.
I would argue that the newer version of 1783 is way better as well.
I would agree with your argument. 😁👍
Absolutely….best under $20 bottle and not really close. Think I’ll pour some now!
Very true one of the best budget options. Beats BIB for me.
Truth
Agreed.
I know you can't list EVERYTHING - but I just picked up another bottle of EW 1783 Small Batch - the PX where I live in Virginia has it for $12 and change!
Wild Turkey 101 is $23 and change this month too.
Enjoyed this review, as I have a $40 limit. Like Jack, 101, EW bonded, and Bulleit. Just discovered JTS Brown. Thanks.
Old Grand-Dad BinB 100 proof. Include ODG BinB in a blind. Good selections, good video.
Love the video. I have a few of these and like most very much. However I have to say Jack Daniels is a sour mash and for some reason I just do not like sour mashes. I have tried quite a few and for some reason they are kind of heavy and a different kind of chewy to me. Either way, one of my favorites of the one's you presented is Jim Beam Black, which to me, has a totally different flavor profile than regular Jim Beam. Thanks for the video.
I'm all in on the WT 101 and would love to find and try the JTS Brown. Great review!
Back in the 90's, Evan Williams black was the go to budget substitute for Old No. 7! Very Old Barton 90 and 100 are both great for the price. These days, Wild Turkey 101 is my go to daily drinker. I can sip it neat and on ice, and its cheap enough to justify in a cocktail.
I would have added Four Roses Yellow label. $24 and a great mixer as well as a decent sipper
It's crazy to me how many people sleep on EW BiB. It has been on my go to list for so long if you keep your eyes open I have seen the handles on sale at the virginia abc for under 25 and I pick one up every time I see that.
Great video! I love hearing about good daily sippers that are affordable and available. A couple I like that are close to the same price are Johnny Drum, and Evan Williams 10 year which is around $30. I've been lucky finding BT for $27 and Eagle Rare for around $50 frequently enough to keep me stocked for the last several months, as my two fave go-to bottles!
Dude, where are you finding Eagle Rare for $50??? I need to visit there!
@@UrbanMiller There are some places in the Atlanta area where it's been available at that price, fairly often over the last year.
@@rawheadjim awesome, thanks! Maybe the next time I fly in through Hartfield-Jackson I’ll chose the flight with a longer layover! Haha
I like a smooth drinking bourbon, but I haven't tried very many. Many many Years ago I tried Jack Daniels and I wasn't a fan. But lately I tried regular Evan Williams and regular Jim Beam here in NC. I preferred the Jim Beam, drinking it at a very cold temperature neat as shots. It also fit a price range I could afford on my low income in the 1.75 liters for about 30 bucks.
I would really appreciate any recommendations for a better bourbon or a higher proof one at the same smoothness at about the same price point. I know that's leaves very little wiggle room to work with, but I'm disabled on low income.
Believe me I'm gonna save this video in case I have the chance to try one of the better bourbons someday.
GIT!!!! Here in the UK I had to pay just over £30 for the EW black label, that's close to US$40!!!!!
I do however prefer it to JD, I find it easier to drink neat with more and more pleasing notes on both the nose and pallet!
No expert, just started drinking bourbon in September 2022. No concept of good or bad so I just grabbed the on one sale with my name in it. REBEL BOURBON, for me it was a great experience with the first sip so it’s my go to bourbon. Did get a Jim bean mid December as there was no Rebel in that store. Scottish born and raised but whiskey and I never got on well together. I went for Vodka and Bacardi in Europe, and Rye when I ended up ln Canada. Any comments on “Good, Bad, and or Ugly” appreciated. 🏴🇨🇦
I got the benchmark 8 recently after watching this video and I really like it and am having some now. Good price too here in Australia where liquor is stupidly taxed.
If you love the specific banana or nutty profile of JD how would these other offerings be better?
Great video. I have only tried the BT, EWBIB, and WT101 and I could not agree with you more. I think all 3 blow JD away especially the BT and EWBIB. I have not tried the EW black label. You said it was similar to JD and I do not like JD so not sure if I want to try it. It has been a while since I have tried JB black but I am pretty sure I liked it so might try it again. I am pretty sure the BM8 is on the shelf at our local store so I might not try that as well. I do not think I have seen any of the other ones. The EWBIB is a great value. I think it is around $16 here.
I am fairly new to bourbon because years ago when I first tried whiskey people were drinking JD and JB white label and I do not like either so it turned me off from bourbon. A couple of years ago when I discovered that there was much better bourbon it got me to drink it more often.
I am not sure if they are less in your neck of the woods but I would add Old Forester 86, Buillett, and Four roses to the list.
my grandmother would put wild turkey in her coffee sometimes.
I love Evan Williams bottled in bond but did not like benchmark 8. Thanks for a fast moving video
I was hoping you would rate Benchmark. I bought a bottle just to marinade stake in a few years ago and it became my go to. It is an absolute VALUE in my opinion best whisky for the price
I was fortunate today and was able to pick up 3 bottles of Buffalo Trace and 3 bottles of Weller Special Reserve at 3 different Binny’s in northern Illinois. 1 bottle limit at each location.
Here in New Brunswick Canada we cannot get jts Brown or very old bartons. JD is 35.99 taxes in . It's weird how different every thing else is wild turkey 101 is 40.29 Buffalo trace is widely available at 42.99 Jim beam black is 32.99 ( devils cut is on special this month for 30.99) Evan Williams bib is 36.99 so one dollar more & black is 28.50 so almost 8.00 cheaper than jd. Benchmark is scarce here. But 28.00 . The Canadian dollar is weak and such but crazy now much the prices vary
Buffalo Trace is $49.99 in Pa, but currently out of stock.
Can you tell me a reputable place with a good price to pick some up. Would greatly appreciate it. Love the channel. Thanks
Nice list! EW BIB is such a sleeper bottle, great call. .
I wish you could show the label or say the name again at the end. Thanks, my former husband used to say"That Jack Daniel's ought to be paying us child support!"
Thanks for the video, I shared it!!!
I just bought Very Old Barton 100 proof. It’s decent whiskey. Great video, thanks!
I really liked Evan Williams Green Label, triple charcoal filtered or some such. Local liquor store says it is no longer available. That right?
Probably the first list of seen from anyone that I completely agree with, outside of Benchmark and Barton, not available in my area. My only gripe is that No7 receives so much hate for no reason. It serves it purpose, and it's low proof makes it ideal for those "f" it let's drink all day kind of days. JD has really good products if you look past No7
Not that I’m defending JD, nor is it on my shelf, but what is the deal with the attitude of “certain” bourbon drinkers towards it? If you are reading this and don’t know what I mean by “certain”, you are likely one of them. The best bourbon is the bourbon you like, the way you like to drink it.
@@Schneids71 IMO it's because of its low proof, and fairy light flavors, and just overall size of the brand. It serves its purpose, makes a hell of a whiskey and coke with the banana notes.
Evan Williams Black is my go to for Manhattans. It's ~$22 for the handle at Costco. Of the others you mentioned, Wild Turkey 101 and Evan Williams White Label are available in my area, Charleston, SC. I have been wanting to try the Wild Turkey 101. I can get Buffalo Trace in bars here and I bought a bottle in New Mexico last year. I like it. I don't like it enough to pay more than MSRP. $25 for a 750 is a lot when I am used to paying that for a 1.75. I think Makers Mark is as good as BT, I can get it at Costco, and it is a better buy that BTin many cases. We also have Woodford available that I would like to try.
Wt 101 kin change yer religion.
@@rabokarabekian409 I tried the WT 101. I am no longer actively looking for Buffalo Trace.
Ironically Buffalo Trace is readily available in Jacksonville FL, but goddamn does the price vary. I got a bottle for $29.99, and I’ve seen a 750ml as high as $54.99.. it’s funny bc Buffalo Trace came in dead last place in our blind of Wild Turkey 101, Elijah Craig SB, 1792 SB, and Buffalo Trace. Trace had the most perceived burn of them all being the lowest proof. I’m wayyy out on BT especially with the price fluctuations (currently sipping the Old Forester 1920)
Just to start. I love old number 7. love it. Down here in Perth W.A according to your pricing on the video, it is almost double for us. That makes being a connoisseur too damned expensive to try something different just in case it's crap.
The more time I spend searching for impossible to find bourbons, the less Time I have to drink. My collection right now: 1/4 bottle of wild 101, 1/2 bottle of EWBIB. And whatever I pick up on the way home tonight. I don't know how people have collections. If I like it, I drink it.
BT in UE have 80 proof. Some prices are different in other place. Great picks and good short review of each bottle.
I like Knob Creek & Wild Turkey. I will try the Buffalo Trace. I see it at Rite Aid store (Northern California). Great video. Thank you for the suggestions.
Old Grandad 100 pr I used to buy when I was in the Army in Germany for $3.45 a QUART, in 1974, 1975. That I always thought was the premium bourbon. One time I bought Southern Gentleman for giggles. Not bad for a cheap bourbon. Mixed or on the rocks.
bought a bottle of Benchmark this weekend because I couldn't find Trace..... amazing! Hands down above Jack!
I live in central Missouri. For years we enjoyed Buffalo Trace and WL Wellers at a reasonable price. I cannot remember the last time I saw a bottle for sale in a liquor store. Unicorns.
Took a tour of Buffalo Trace this year & was FINALLY able to get a bottle. So hard to get where I live,!
liked and subscribed. i'm drinking the evan williams black right now, and loving it with coke. i prefer the george dickel in a slightly higher price range--maybe about ten dollars more for two handles than 2 handles of the evan williams. my store offers a ten percent discount when you buy two. prices seem to fluctuate and i usually go for the bargain. gotta have old grandad from time to time.
Here in AZ JD is only around 18$ for 750ml...the Evan Williams black label is around 9$...buffalo trace is 24$ ...wt101 is 22$
Being very budget minded (i.e. "a cheap B......"), I am always looking for less expensive variations of old favorites. Benchmark is a staple in my house as are Evan Williams white and black labels. I prefer Beam to Jack, but both are great choices, though I honestly find some of these cheaper offerings to be their equal or better. In my neck of the woods Wild Turkey 101 is only a pinch more than JD and as you noted, well worth it.
Ten high is a cheap good bourbon
That math is right up there with “50% off is basically free, because the 50% I saved is the 50% I spent, so I broke even” 😂
Very similar to Kohl's cash!
You can get paid for picking up your own delivery now.
At my store here in Florida, I get WT 101 for $21.99, BT for 19.99(when they have it), Also while I was there I picked up two bottles of MM brt-01 for $59. I left six more on the shelf 😊
What part of Florida? I’m in St Pete and had to pay a little more for BRT-02 when I found it
I’m just west of Jacksonville. I can’t find BRT-02 anywhere up here.
I prefer drier bourbons. Wild Turkey 101 is my go-to as a sipper. It’s $24 at my local shop right now.
I cannot disagree, it's fantastic!!!
I'm 64 and have been drinking whiskey from about 1978 but I have been around this world and have tried whiskey from Ireland, Japan Even some rotgut German and just about every kind of whiskey from the United States and Canada so to agree with you I can't. But as with truth you have the right of your opinion and I do respect that but I believe JD has the best sipping whiskey there is. Sorry but that is my opinion. A 3 shot glass with nothing but ice is the best. Keep sipping friend.
I appreciate the comment and so glad you found a bottle you love and how you enjoy drinking it! Thank you for sharing!
In Australia i drink 100 proof Old Number 7. What’s your opinion of the 100 proof?
In PA the price of Jack Daniels has skyrocketed. But I have never gotten a peanut note from it. The only whiskey that I get a distinct peanut note from is Jim Beam White Label and Jim Beam Old Tub. That being said, I never buy Jack becuase of how expensive it is. If I'm buying American whiskey it's either Jim Beam or Evan Williams or I will go with a blended Scotch whiskey. If I'm treating myself I will go Wild Turkey or Makers Mark, both which are still cheaper then Jack Daniels.
Drink Old Crow. Seriously it's perfect for mixing and I think it's just fine on ice too.
I think you forgot about Old Forester 100 which for me is at the same level of greatness as Wild Turkey 101 and is around $25 - $26 in Virginia
I used the Evan Williams Black in a glaze for my bacon. Maple Mustard Bourbon Bacon.
Big fan of Jack and Coke so I'll to try some of your suggestions. Always looking for something new but also worth the price.
I've tried all except for Barton and JTS Brown and I agree totally. Wild Turkey would be tops followed by Beam black label then Evan Williams white label
The bourbon market has so may excellent options! It’s fun when you get an allocated at MSRP but knowing this midrange portfolio is fun as well.. I also enjoy educating someone who may not have experienced all that is out there. Thanks David!
Buffalo Trace is easy to find here in Kansas City, Missouri. Every brand you've mentioned is easily accessible here.
So what do u guys think of Screwball? I make an old fashioned with 1 shot Screwball and 1 shot bourbon no sugar or syrup and everything else the classic recipe. I love it
My 3 go to bottles under $20.
1. EW 1783
2. JTS Brown BiB
3. Very Old Barton 100 proof
I agree
I suggest Deadwood Bourbon. My favorite sipper for $24. I always have a bottle on hand
Thanks for the video, buddy!
I love JD, WT101/Longbranch, and Maker's Mark. I'm happy with with those three. No need to throw my money around.
Were Knob Creek 9 or Elijah Craig too expensive to make the list? Those are my go to bourbons when someone asks me for a great affordable bourbon.
Where i live both of those are well over $30. Fine boubons though!
I live in Los Angeles, and we can't get away from Buffalo Trace... Typical price is $22 to $26. I can find 7 or 8 places within 5 miles from my house that has it! If you can find it, "Old Tub" a bottled in Bond product from Jim Beam costs about $22 is a great option instead of Jack... I also found a bottle of Benchmark Full Proof for $19 which also blows Jack away!
What’s a good entry bourbon for someone who has never had whiskey or spirits in general tbh.
Evan Williams bottled in bond ($), Wild turkey 101 ($), Jim beam extra aged ($), Elijah Craig small batch ($$), and old forester 1910 ($$$). All are good but have different tasting notes
I played this at 2x speed, and could still listen and comprehend everything you said 💯
It was fun watching this video.
Very accurate. 5 or 6 are available in Ontario, Canada. It puzzles me that Buffalo Trace is hard to find when it is every liquor store(LCBO)in Ontario. I guess if you are ever visiting Ontario you can pick up some Buffalo Trace. It runs about $42 CDN so probably $30 USD tax included.
No not always. It does quite often go out of stock.
yeah, agreed on the Benchmark 8! One of my dailies for sure!
I stopped to watch this just to see if you included BenchMark 8. I stupidly told too many people about it and now it gets hard to find it sometimes here in Virginia (Williamsburg area)
WOW... I'm living in Poland and you can buy JD Old No.7 for approx. 25 USD pe liter. So it's cheaper even though we have really high taxes for alkohol and additional taxes if its imported... I'm shocked.
TURKEY 101 is such a good deal. i'm loving the jack bonded....the liter is $47 in my neighborhood. i really enjoy the banana runts.