Best BUDGET Bourbon - Battle of the Budget Bourbons!

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  • čas přidán 24. 06. 2024
  • Suggested quantities are just that, suggestions. Feel free to increase or decrease quantities in order to cater to your personal tastes. Enjoy!
    If you like me and want to support the show, check out our Patreon!
    / slbdrinks
    CONTENT:
    0:00 Intro
    1:35 Very Old Barton
    2:58 Jim Beam
    4:14 Heaven Hill White Label
    5:16 Evan Williams Black Label
    6:35 Benchmark Small Batch
    7:56 Rankings
    9:45 Outro
    TOOLS I USE:
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    Bell Jigger: amzn.to/34l3WGv
    Shaker: amzn.to/3FW7A7M
    Bar spoon + Muddler: amzn.to/3ER3xbi
    Hawthorn strainer: amzn.to/3eNm3H3
    Mixing Glass: amzn.to/3mUL5Z9
    Fine Mesh Strainer: amzn.to/3HO30ZR
    Julep Strainer: amzn.to/3JBNpy7
    Juicer: amzn.to/3qOFaGn
    Peeler: amzn.to/3sPfyf8
    Tweezers: amzn.to/3FUkpzp
    Syrup bottles: amzn.to/3FXAq7B
    Garnish picks: amzn.to/3JE7rIh
    As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. I get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.
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    #bourbon #whiskey #cocktails

Komentáře • 671

  • @VincentVader
    @VincentVader Před 2 lety +85

    The Evan Williams B.I.B. for $2 more than the black label is pretty darn good for what it is.

    • @texaswhiskeyplus2973
      @texaswhiskeyplus2973 Před 2 lety +22

      In my area The B.I.B. and the black label can be found for the same price. So my daily sipper is the E.W. B.I.B.

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +20

      I have had the bib in the bar and agree. Wanted this video to be intro bottles only. Good call!

    • @Shadx27
      @Shadx27 Před 2 lety +11

      @@slbdrinks Evan Williams Small Batch is very good as well. Just changed the bottle and slight change to recipe, now 90 proof from 86.

    • @michaelpotter3311
      @michaelpotter3311 Před 2 lety +1

      Agreed

    • @shpfro
      @shpfro Před 2 lety +10

      I don't like when people say " it's good for what it is" BiB finishes pretty well I'm blind tastings against other BiB at 3 or 3 times the price. Most people associate quality to price, and that's definitely not the case.

  • @OswaltDave
    @OswaltDave Před 2 lety +12

    I am a huge Evan Williams fan as a daily drinker. Another budget bourbon by Evan Williams that I absolutely love is Evan Williams 1783. This is my go to daily drink. I’m a new subscriber and am really enjoying your content!

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      Appreciate you joining us! Had quite a few recommend the 1783. I need to give that a try!

  • @WTNall
    @WTNall Před 2 lety +14

    Thanks for the memories. Fall semester 1982, my freshman year, Very Old Barton was the official (koff koff) bourbon of the University of Kentucky Marching Band trombone section. The next year we upgraded to Maker's Mark. Still not sure how we successfully navigated our shows.

  • @josephthomas2226
    @josephthomas2226 Před rokem +3

    Love the channel. I just changed my favorite budget bourbon from EW 1783 to EW BIB. I was surprised how much I liked the BIB. Your channel (and others) made me realize I HAD to try it. What a bargain!

  • @stevezane68
    @stevezane68 Před 2 lety +20

    Best budget bourbons for me is Wild Turkey 101 followed by Old Forester Signature.

  • @badgerjeff6081
    @badgerjeff6081 Před 2 lety +12

    Loved the Beam reaction! I agree on the tasting notes - works OK with some ice and soda water. I really appreciate your tasting notes and honest reactions. Congrats on eclipsing the 12,000 subscribers mark!

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +1

      Certainly appreciate that!

    • @noahdoyle6780
      @noahdoyle6780 Před 2 lety +2

      Jim Beam flavored bourbons are far better than the basic bottle. Red Stag (cherry) and Coke is... dangerous.

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +1

      Huh good to know!

  • @hollyjhj3732
    @hollyjhj3732 Před 2 lety +4

    I always enjoy your videos, Kurt. I've honestly have never tried any of these, but it's great to hear your take on some budget-friendly bottles. Sometimes there's a diamond in the rough out there.

  • @joekidd6432
    @joekidd6432 Před 2 lety +52

    Lmao. I love this dude. A leather belt soaked in pepper water! Hilarious!

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +7

      Couldn’t help myself
      😂😂😂

    • @eddavis5085
      @eddavis5085 Před 2 lety +3

      Couldn't have said it any better @Reel Kidd. I'm new to the channel but here to stay... love this guy!🤣

    • @markknister6272
      @markknister6272 Před 2 lety

      He’s so right. 😄

  • @JimiHendrix67
    @JimiHendrix67 Před 10 měsíci

    Awesome video ! Wow thanks for showing that adventure, a fan from Rhode Island. Subscribed

  • @johnclements921
    @johnclements921 Před 2 lety +9

    Great idea for a video. I do enjoy the Evan Williams as well, solid product choice.

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +1

      Thank you!

    • @SpicyRok7482
      @SpicyRok7482 Před 2 lety +1

      It is hard to beat E. Williams' BIB.

    • @2TEN90
      @2TEN90 Před 2 lety +1

      Agreed John, and the bottled in bond white label for $17 is an even better steal! Cheers!

  • @v3z6kc
    @v3z6kc Před 2 lety +2

    Another killer video, thank you. You hit the bullseye again. I so much appreciate videos that don’t waste my time with bourbons impossible to find (Michigan is a not mail order available state) or basically just a collectible for the rich and famous. 100s of good to great bourbons in the $25 to $100 range that are available in many places.😀

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +1

      💯 correct! Planning on several more of these type of videos!

  • @woutervannuil3420
    @woutervannuil3420 Před 2 lety +1

    Thank you for your great reviews Kurt, thumbs up from the Netherlands!

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      Thank you so much and welcome!

  • @patrickcronin6829
    @patrickcronin6829 Před 2 lety +4

    I totally agree, the Evan Williams is a staple for me on ice or as a mixer.
    Jim Beam, though, is also a staple for me. It was the first whiskey I ever had on a long walk home on a cold night with a bunch of my college buddies sharing a bottle and cementing a friendship for a lifetime. Thirty years later, we can all recall that time with a sip of that leather pepper concoction. Thanks for reminding me.

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      That’s awesome you have a connection and history with a specific bottle! Thanks for sharing with me.

  • @anthonyberry1131
    @anthonyberry1131 Před 2 lety +2

    I love reviews like these definitely like the channel im a new subscriber but loving the content so far

  • @jaddison3027
    @jaddison3027 Před 2 lety +2

    Heaven Hill is what I was using to make Manhattan's for my friends that don't like whiskey or bourbon neat. They love it. Thanks for you videos. I'm a little over a year into my journey tasting dark spirits and there is a lot of good advice throughout the channel

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      So much appreciated, thank you!

  • @nicholaskinser1739
    @nicholaskinser1739 Před 2 lety +2

    Love this video! One of my best buds and I worked at a liquor store in Bowling Green, KY while we were in college. We had no money and Very Old Barton was our best friend! That same friend now works for Heaven Hill and his union is fighting for better pay and benefits for themselves and their families. Keep up the content, but maybe consider holding off on purchasing Heaven Hill products until the men, women, and families who worked so hard to make Heaven Hill's products during the pandemic are treated fairly and given their health insurance back. Love the content still and hope you'll keep making great videos for everyone!

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +1

      Thanks so much! Also, wishing nothing but the best for your buddy and all the employees at Heaven Hill!

  • @503golf
    @503golf Před 2 lety +21

    Fun stuff. I did a budget exploration over the summer and found that I really like Early Times BiB and Old Granddad BiB. They both do well neat and in cocktails, and no one can complain about the price point at ~$20.

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +1

      Both excellent choices!

    • @jakobchristensen2845
      @jakobchristensen2845 Před 2 lety +2

      I wish, I was able to get Early Times here, where I live - I have only heard good things about their products 😊

    • @imoffthegrid2158
      @imoffthegrid2158 Před 2 lety +3

      I don't believe they are producing the early times BIB anymore . The brand was sold a while back . I hope that the BIB will get resurrected .

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +1

      What a shame!

    • @503golf
      @503golf Před 2 lety +1

      @ImOffTheGrid Brown-Forman sold the brand and existing stock to Sazerac, which will shift production to the Barton distillery. We’ll see how it changes as they run through the existing B-F stock. I’ll be doing my part to help get through it.

  • @janeyres5576
    @janeyres5576 Před 2 lety +1

    My husband and I are new to bourbons and whiskeys. I’ve been watching your videos and I’m very happy with the education and looking forward to jumping in with two feet. I know wines very well (I grew up in Napa Valley) but I’m looking forward to improving my bar cart. Thank you so much!

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +1

      Thank you for joining us! We should get together sometime because I know nothing about wines lol

    • @janeyres5576
      @janeyres5576 Před 2 lety +1

      @@slbdrinks it would be my pleasure!

  • @johnb3948
    @johnb3948 Před 2 lety +1

    Great breakdown!

  • @sourdoughdougyukon
    @sourdoughdougyukon Před 2 lety +6

    I agree ! Evan Williams is what I use in my sours from time to time ! Not a fan of Jim Beam really at all. Great vid , thanks again Kurt

  • @furstlahst860
    @furstlahst860 Před 2 lety +1

    I’m new to this channel but not new to loving bourbon and good cheer. Kurt’s got some great content!

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +1

      Appreciate that! That’s exactly what we like to do here, enjoy whiskey, spirits, and cocktails and spread good cheer!

  • @BrianThorstad
    @BrianThorstad Před 2 lety +1

    Great review. I’m subscribing!

  • @kathy2trips
    @kathy2trips Před 2 lety +1

    I'm a new bourbon drinker and really appreciated this. Thank you!

  • @Paul-bf7nj
    @Paul-bf7nj Před 2 lety +1

    Love your videos. As a collector and a general lover of bourbon O was extremely interested in your comments I know Turkey 101 may not be a " bargain " bourbon but I have to go with that as an everyday smoke a cigar friends sipping bourbon. What I find in these lower priced bourbon is exactly what you kept saying is that leather taste.

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      I hear you on that. I wanted to start at the very entry end level and work my way up. WT 101 is a def hitter!

  • @PJBHolden
    @PJBHolden Před 2 lety +6

    Nice review, I enjoy your content. Curious though, would it make sense to cleanse the palate prior to tasting a new bourbon?

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +6

      I hear that for sure but I didn’t on this video primarily because I knew the whiskey itself would be somewhat thin and easily identifiable. Well noted though, thank you!

  • @rustyharvey4557
    @rustyharvey4557 Před 2 lety +1

    Awesome video. I cant wait to try Very old Barton

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      I think you will be pleasantly surprised. Make sure you get the 100 proof bottle.

  • @mywhiskeyden-davidelliott

    I've been having fun with my Bottom Shelf Battle videos I've been doing... I love the regular Benchmark and Very Old Barton is a mainstay in my whiskey den... can't find it in Ohio, but when I run to Kentucky I always come back with a few bottle... the 86 proof is awesome. I was surprised by the Quality House- to me it is a lot smoother than some of the other bottom shelfers I've tasted. A really decent budget bourbon and just did a video on that one that will air next week. And I agree with you on the Jim Beam. You're paying for the name...

  • @stevenolkie8615
    @stevenolkie8615 Před 2 lety +4

    Love this! Please try VOB 86 proof, that’s my staple everyday pour. Not as thin as the 80 proof. Also, curious to get your take on their 100 proof. A bit harsh for everyday for me.
    Keep up the great content!!

  • @alp3081
    @alp3081 Před 2 lety +1

    Luv yah man nice job great vids. My go to is Evan Williams keep up the good vids u do

  • @jonvalderrama2538
    @jonvalderrama2538 Před 2 lety

    Great video sir! Love the honest feedback. What state are you buying these in? I can't find at least 3 of these.

  • @garywaters1672
    @garywaters1672 Před 2 lety +2

    I like his videos I have always liked Jim Beam but have been trying other brands now so this helpful

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +1

      Nothing wrong with what you like. We def can’t all be the same that’s for sure. Happy to have you with us!

  • @whiskeylino5669
    @whiskeylino5669 Před 2 lety +1

    Great episode!

  • @terrymoore4933
    @terrymoore4933 Před 2 lety +1

    Enjoyed the video!

  • @krazmokramer
    @krazmokramer Před 2 lety +1

    Another good episode. In the 1970s I was a bartender for an upper end chain steak and seafood restaurant (Reuben's). Jim Beam was the well bourbon. No wonder we poured so many call bourbon cocktails! Corporate were brilliant. The nice thing about a $9 bottle is that if it sucks, you expected it and you aren't out much $$$. If it's decent, you found a bargain! $750 - $1000 (I saw you bought some) if it sucks you get smacked twice. If it's great, big deal. That was to be expected. Thanks! SUBSCRIBED

  • @2TEN90
    @2TEN90 Před 2 lety +3

    First off amazing job being a CZcams Creator of the rise! And secondly love the channel and topics of your videos. Now the Very Old Barton 100 proof is amazing and actually won blind taste test for us against some much more extensive whiskeys. Cheers and Rock On!

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +1

      Thank you for the kind words! Appreciate you checking in! All the best to you as well, I will be sure to check it out!

    • @2TEN90
      @2TEN90 Před 2 lety

      @@slbdrinks appreciate that buddy! Cheers!🥃

    • @cebailey5920
      @cebailey5920 Před 2 lety +2

      VOB 100 is my go to

    • @2TEN90
      @2TEN90 Před 2 lety +1

      @@cebailey5920 great choice!!

  • @tonybrannen1740
    @tonybrannen1740 Před 2 lety +1

    Loved this one

  • @arashefi
    @arashefi Před 2 měsíci

    I love your reviews. ❤🥃

  • @kevinerickson2595
    @kevinerickson2595 Před 2 lety +1

    Cheers 🥂 , awesome videos 🤙🏾

  • @bryanthompson6678
    @bryanthompson6678 Před 2 lety +4

    Ya know Sir, I appreciate this one! What we’re experiencing in my neck of the woods are shortages on many of the, will call them, mid tier bourbons. There’s plenty of booze - if you’re not picky - but if you are trying to find something that isn’t offensive (to the pallet) and doesn’t cost entire too much of your pay check - It helps to have some insight like this. I’m not a big fan of Jim Beam (original) either. But the rest I hadn’t tried. Gonna get a bottle of Evan black label and Old Barton and give them a try. Again, I appreciate your insight, Sir!

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      Thanks so much! We have more similar shows in the works as well. Sure appreciate the kind words!

  • @GPosner8
    @GPosner8 Před 2 lety +11

    I’m a big fan of all the Evan Williams bourbons. Consistent quality at a very affordable price. Thanks for all your reviews👍👏🏻🥃🥃

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      Appreciate you! Thanks so much!

    • @2TEN90
      @2TEN90 Před 2 lety +1

      Agreed...what are your thoughts on the White Label? Think it's even better than the black label and for only a few dollars more, it's awesome!

    • @Johnr37us
      @Johnr37us Před 2 lety +1

      I’ve sample pretty much all of the reasonable priced Bourbons ( 55 dollars are less for the large bottle) and I must say that Evan Williams black ( large bottles is 25 dollars at my local package store) is a solid bourbon .Now my favorite which is a little bit more expensive …well actually quite a bit more expensive is Larceny. (Large bottle is 46 dollars . And I did taste some of the 18 and 20 year-old Irish whiskeys that were around $100 mark for .75 But that was iatva fundraiser for the American Cancer Society but I really did not get what I would say was a realistic amount to do a legitimate taste test.

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +1

      Hard to go wrong with EW black label.

  • @juanz4017
    @juanz4017 Před 2 lety +1

    Great review

  • @michaelward9880
    @michaelward9880 Před 2 lety +1

    I'm glad to see Evan Williams do well. I used to enjoy it when I was young. I may revisit it.

  • @inspectorwinship9538
    @inspectorwinship9538 Před 2 lety +10

    My go to budget bourbons are Early Times BIB and Evan Williams BIB. Always on the bottom shelf and absolutely exceed the price in quality. I can sip either neat, and I can use them in cocktails.

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      Excellent choices! Budget bib show in the works for sure!

    • @SpicyRok7482
      @SpicyRok7482 Před 2 lety +1

      BOTH of those are good cheap Bourbons.

  • @paulring4267
    @paulring4267 Před 2 lety

    Thank you, I like the Evan Williams bottle in bond

  • @frankbelt633
    @frankbelt633 Před 2 lety +1

    Thank you. Fun stuff.

  • @tonybeckman1774
    @tonybeckman1774 Před 2 lety +1

    One that I would recommend is Bluegrass Distillers in Lexington. Toured there last spring, was impressed and ended up buying a bottle of their Blue Corn barrel strength at 128 proof. Can definitely taste the proof but I thought it had great taste. Keep up the great videos, Tony

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      Thanks for the recommendation!

  • @steveclauter6802
    @steveclauter6802 Před 2 lety +1

    Evan Williams! Thanks! Good evaluation!

  • @podunk87
    @podunk87 Před rokem

    Couldn't agree with your list more. Evan Williams is my go-to budget bourbon. Always keep a big bottle in the cabinet.

  • @bigscofan
    @bigscofan Před rokem

    Thanks for helping with the budget! Do some more bargain tastings, very entertaining. Tried Old Barton in a blind test with some other good stuff for comparison in…it lost but not by much… 12 bucks here in So Cal. Thanks for sharing!

  • @Norton590
    @Norton590 Před 2 lety +1

    I love your videos! Whats the glass your using?

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      Those are called glencairn whiskey glasses. They are designed to enhance nosing or smelling the scents of the whiskey

  • @DustinMikkelsen
    @DustinMikkelsen Před 2 lety +1

    I completely agree with your assessments of Jim Beam and Even Williams but I really like Benchmark 8; I'm not sure how it's different - or if it is - from the Benchmark that you tasted. I'm new here but budget bourbons is all I drink, so thanks for the video and I'm now subscribed.

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      Appreciate you joining us! I didn’t have the Benchmark 8 on the show but it was recommended to me by other comments. I agree with you. The Benchmark 8 has to be the best of the Benchmark group.

  • @Berserk2099
    @Berserk2099 Před 2 lety +1

    Yeah! Evan Williams is my favorite too! Evan Williams Battled In Bond and Wild Turkey 101 are my daily drinkers

  • @johncarlisi3701
    @johncarlisi3701 Před 2 lety +1

    Great review. I'm glad you decided to check out the inexpensive Bourbons. I discovered Evan Williams black label about nine months ago and found it to be an excellent bourbon for the money. I've realized you don't have to spend $100 on a bottle of whiskey to have a good whiskey. I learned this when I paid $95 for a bottle of Rock Hill. Thanks Keep them coming.

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      Appreciate your support!

    • @joshuasteele5108
      @joshuasteele5108 Před 2 lety +2

      I'm at the point where I'll only pay over 50 dollars if the bourbon is cask strength. Everything else is for the birds.

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +2

      Good for you to stick to a plan when purchasing!

  • @RobotHasAHeart
    @RobotHasAHeart Před 2 lety +2

    This is the episode I have been waiting for! I'm curious about your thoughts on Ezra Brooks.

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +1

      I have an Ezra Brooks and feel like it’s very solid for the price!

    • @2TEN90
      @2TEN90 Před 2 lety

      Have you ever tried the Very Old Barton 100 proof? Awesome juice and beat a bunch of higher priced bourbons in a blind we did on a live stream. Cheers!

    • @RobotHasAHeart
      @RobotHasAHeart Před 2 lety +1

      @@2TEN90 I have not, I don't see that around here where I am in Missouri.

    • @2TEN90
      @2TEN90 Před 2 lety +1

      @@RobotHasAHeart Very Old Barton is produced by Sazerac so it should be in Missouri. Hope you get a chance to try it. Cheers friend!🥃

  • @granville-hamlinhouse6132

    I’m new to the bourbon world. Woodford Reserve was my gateway into whiskey and so far, Blantons is my favorite for its smoothness and flavor. Your channel has peaked my interest in trying new stuff. I was wondering if you would be interested in comparing whiskeys sold at club stores, like Costco?

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      That has been a topic of conversation for us. Lots of my friends swear by Kirkland!

  • @ThisIsNeccessary
    @ThisIsNeccessary Před 2 lety +5

    Your description of the Jim Beam ("Leather belt soaked in black pepper water") is spot on.

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +1

      I know we have to have some Beam fans but ya that’s about what it is! To me anyway lol

    • @ThisIsNeccessary
      @ThisIsNeccessary Před 2 lety +1

      @@slbdrinks I usually prefer a leather-forward flavor, but Beam is just bleh

    • @mikemundwiller9116
      @mikemundwiller9116 Před 2 lety +2

      You might like Jim Beam Black better.

  • @kelvingoliday9245
    @kelvingoliday9245 Před 2 lety +1

    Thanks for the video. I have watched a few of yours recently in preparation for my man cave. I wasn't sure if I should get a couple of options (one for neat/rocks and one for mixing) or if I should get something that's good for both. I can already foresee this as a the start of a small collection. For your pool playing friends, what would you use as a man cave starter? Thanks again for your knowledge. I'm learning a lot more than I expected about bourbons and whiskeys.

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +1

      Lots of great options at around 20.00. Wild Turkey 101, old grandad bottle in bond. More in the 30s with Evan Williams single barrel, Coopers Craft 100 proof. In just getting started my splurge bottle would be Russels Reserve single barrel. Outstanding bottle for 50-60. Good luck, sounds awesome!

    • @kelvingoliday9245
      @kelvingoliday9245 Před 2 lety +1

      @@slbdrinks Thank you for the advice. Wild Turkey 101 was exactly what I was thinking for mixing. I kept going back and forth between Old Forester 1920 and Russell Reserve. I'll probably do both. Thanks again.

  • @Keithicc1
    @Keithicc1 Před 2 lety +3

    Loved your spot review. Interesting. EW BL is my go to for an afternoon “Old Fashioned” on the patio. I have found an OF mix that I really like… Daniels Broiler Old Fashioned Cocktail Mixer on Amazon ($17). Makes a delicious OF. But I have been a EW fan for many years now.

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      Def was top of the list lol for me!

  • @allensams1773
    @allensams1773 Před 2 lety +1

    Watched your video w/ interest then went to my liquor cabinet and poured myself two fingers of Evan Williams, my daily drinker, Salute!

  • @greasyghost
    @greasyghost Před 2 lety

    but I'm not complaining sir..thanks for your videos. I appreciate them

  • @jamessowards8329
    @jamessowards8329 Před 2 lety +6

    I'm curious about some of these myself. Love watching your reviews and trying to gauge how your pallete and flavor preferences match up to mine since each person tastes things slightly differently. Do you generally prefer high rye or traditional bourbons? What are a few of your favorite $50-75 bourbons? I've found myself to be a brown Foreman fan. I like woodford double Oaked and old forester alot. Cheers!

    • @jamessowards8329
      @jamessowards8329 Před 2 lety

      Brown Forman*

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +2

      Thanks so much! My palate is a bit all over the place. Anything Wild Turkey and I am in. Some rye whiskeys with high rye mash bills I love! Some bourbon with low rye I love. Not a big fan of leather notes only if done in balance. Sorry not a good answer for you 😕

    • @2TEN90
      @2TEN90 Před 2 lety +2

      James we blinded the Very Old Barton 100 proof against some much more expensive whiskeys on one of our live shows and it won out! Such a great pour for the price! Cheers!

  • @enricojaun2880
    @enricojaun2880 Před 2 lety +2

    Love the channel! The only budget bourbon for me is Evan Williams BIB. $15 give or take... after that its wt101 for me. Cheers!

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      Hopefully going to do a bib budget video!

  • @jshicke
    @jshicke Před 2 lety +5

    The Evan Williams Black label (86 proof I believe) also surprised me as a budget bourbon. It is almost always on my bar somewhere. The green label (80 proof) is a bit weak and watered down flavor. Its dramatically different when you step over to the black label.

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +1

      Haven’t had the green label but the black label is pretty darn good!

  • @kennethgibson7483
    @kennethgibson7483 Před rokem

    Been in my bourbon journey for awhile now and I've experienced alot of different flavors. But I do love a good budget bourbon and I will say that the two you picked are always on my bar(very old Barton 80 proof is hard to come by)nevertheless I enjoy them both....nice review.

  • @Myke_Lemons
    @Myke_Lemons Před 2 lety +1

    "A leather belt soaked in pepper water". Best tasting note ever!

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      Sorry but that’s all I can think of lol

  • @barryrickert6544
    @barryrickert6544 Před 2 lety +1

    great vid.

  • @billb410
    @billb410 Před 2 lety +1

    I have only had the Jim Beam and way back when I was a young buck. I was not drinking for taste BTW. For me Wild Turkey 101 is under $20 and its good straight or for mixing. For myself I cant see looking for a solution to a non existent problem. Love your reviews and keep up the great work!

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +2

      Thanks so much! For me the WT 101 would hit the next bracket in price structure. Hopefully we can keep going with these type of videos!

  • @wafarris
    @wafarris Před 2 lety +1

    I don't drink bourbon often but keep a bottle around. I prefer rye and Jim Beam rye is one of my favorites. I haven't tried their bourbon so I was surprised at their low rating that seems to carry on over into the comments. I love these kind of videos. Thanks!

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      Appreciate that thank you! Rye whiskey is a different animal altogether. Very possible the JB rye is a step above what I tasted in the video.

  • @DMBall
    @DMBall Před 2 lety +1

    I've been a teetotaler all my life, but I enjoy listening to a man who knows his subject.

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      Thank you! I prefer a person to drink responsibly or not at all rather than in excess.

  • @dennismhac23
    @dennismhac23 Před 2 lety +12

    I'm not gonna lie Kirk, when you got down to the second bottle Jim Beam...I started laughing when you said I'm not very fond of that one! LOL!!!!!!!! I've been meaning to try Benchmark for a while now due to coming from Buffalo Trace but was afraid it'll go down the drain. I've had the others except Old Barton, we've tried them once and we've never touched the bottles again.
    I held on them them for over a year hoping we'd use them for cocktails....nope. had to get rid of them, gave them to these guys I always see down the road. At least they weren't wasted.
    Thanks for sharing.
    You thought about doing bottom shelf battle of Bottled in Bonds?

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +1

      I did yes! I feel those are next step up from budget bottles so maybe a future video!

  • @michaelgraham7316
    @michaelgraham7316 Před 2 lety +1

    Evan Williams is my daily drinker. I like it alot. Right now I am working on Scotches about $30 + on some of your recommendations and ones from other videos. Having fun. Thanks.

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +1

      That’s the best thing anyone can say to me! You have a plan financially in your whiskey journey and your having fun! That’s what it’s all about!

    • @michaelgraham7316
      @michaelgraham7316 Před 2 lety +1

      @@slbdrinks Thanks for your comment. I have watched quite a few videos and I like yours the best. They are spot on on the bottles that I have been able to find. I hope to try others as I can find them. Thanks for your thoughts.

  • @basilbaker6025
    @basilbaker6025 Před rokem +3

    I'm the biggest fan of the regular Benchmark just the Old No. 8, hard to beat it for the price

  • @r8tr273
    @r8tr273 Před 2 lety +1

    I wanted one to mix so I didn’t want an expensive bottle for that. After trying a few I settled on Evan Williams Black Label. I have others that are nicer and mainly for sipping, but I really like the Black Label as an everyday drink bottle.

  • @Glock2201
    @Glock2201 Před 2 lety +2

    Love the reaction to the JB. That is how I was introduced to for bourbon and I steered clear of bourbon for years because I thought that was what all bourbon tasted like. It is awful and IMO only good for adding to marinades.

  • @donelmore2540
    @donelmore2540 Před 2 lety +1

    I haven’t seen Benchmark small batch, but the standard Benchmark I discovered within the past year and I like it. Evan Williams BIB, as mentioned below, is reasonably priced and fine. Buffalo Trace is a staple at my California Fresh Market and is frequently on sale.

    • @joeyjohnson4826
      @joeyjohnson4826 Před 2 lety

      ROT GUT 😁

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      Good choices! Because of recommendations I found Benchmark 8 is pretty good.

  • @njparady
    @njparady Před 2 lety +5

    Evan Williams is a great value and pretty good. Also, always on the shelf.

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +1

      Always!

    • @2TEN90
      @2TEN90 Před 2 lety +1

      Agreed and the White Label at $17 is also a steal. If you ever get a chance the Very Old Barton 100 is awesome! It beat a bunch of higher priced bourbons in a blind taste test on our love show. Cheers!

  • @jls0129
    @jls0129 Před 2 lety +1

    You are good, I like your style and judgment. Evan Williams is one of my favorite Bourbons. Good value and smooth flavors on each bottle. J. C. Jackson it's also really good! Both are a great without paying up too much, especially if you're going to mix your cocktail. I don't drink my Bourbon straight any way!

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      There you go! Great bourbon good for anything!

  • @kennethgrutter9406
    @kennethgrutter9406 Před 2 lety +2

    I agree with your judgement on Jim Beam, and Evan Williams. Jim Beam is just nothing to write home about. Don't understand the fascination with it. If there was a generic bourbon, that you could buy in the liquor store, Jim Beam would be it, and just have a white label, with the word "bourbon" on it. Evan Williams Black is a very good bourbon for the money. Haven't tried the rest, and don't plan to.

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      If your happy with EW than that’s good enough!

  • @llaccm1
    @llaccm1 Před 2 lety +5

    I haven’t seen Benchmark small batch in my area but the regular Benchmark 80 proof is the best bourbon for the money, out there. Turned on to it by a liquor store clerk and everyone I’ve told about it loves it. It’s $10 for a fifth, 17.99 for a handle.

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +2

      Others have said the same. I don’t believe we have that one up here.

    • @stevedunn8024
      @stevedunn8024 Před 2 lety +2

      Agree. I have some very high end bourbons on my bar and reach for benchmark more than any other.

  • @waynemontpetit8181
    @waynemontpetit8181 Před 2 lety +2

    I just picked up a bottle of the Very Old Barton last month in Tennessee because I had heard it was legit - haven't opened it yet.
    I guess it also comes in an 86, 90, and 100 proof versions, none of which I've ever seen in my travels.
    Great video and congrats on the 10,000+ !!

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +1

      Man thanks so much! Hard to believe! I really was pleasantly surprised with the VOB!

    • @waynemontpetit8181
      @waynemontpetit8181 Před 2 lety +2

      @@rick5221 #LuckyDuck

  • @davidschweibold256
    @davidschweibold256 Před 2 lety +7

    Thanks for the review! I’ve always enjoyed Evan Williams Black label and used to enjoy Jim Beam white label, but in the last couple of years their quality has gone way down. WT101 in the new bottle is another where I think the quality has gone down too. Great job!

  • @billwakeford6004
    @billwakeford6004 Před 2 lety +1

    Love the shows. Can you do a show on what bourbons not to buy?

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      Yes! Hopefully another one of my regret shows coming soon!

  • @unclealand
    @unclealand Před 2 lety +1

    Don’t apologize for having different preferences and tastes. Jim Beam is popular, but there’s no law that says you must like it. You can always use bourbons that you don’t like as bases for mixed drinks.

  • @mikaelutley8435
    @mikaelutley8435 Před 2 lety +9

    Evan Williams Black label has been my go-to budget bourbon for most of my adult life.

    • @JC_Chappy
      @JC_Chappy Před rokem +1

      I'm a fan of all the Evan Williams bottles. BiB and 1783 are probably my more likely go to pics but I'll never turn down EW!

  • @RStaub10
    @RStaub10 Před 2 lety +1

    Subbed and liked and have a quick question. What’s your criteria for a daily drinker? Would any budget bourbon make the list for you? I’ve been buying the handle of bulleit and that suits me fine at $52. Would love to get your thoughts and recommendations. Or maybe a comparative daily drinker video?

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      Good idea on the daily drinker!
      Truly none of these on this video would be my daily drinker. A daily drinker for me would probably be in the 25 dollar range. No disrespect intended with that comment. Folks have to decide what’s the right choice depending on budget. Early Times bib, old grandad 114, lot to choose from in the next price bracket!

  • @pross6525
    @pross6525 Před 2 lety +1

    As for Jim Beam I am a fan of the Black label Devil's cut and Legent Bourbon. With Evan Williams bottled and bond 100 proof is good I do have some Benchmark 8 I haven't had yet. I will have to look for very old Barton

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      That Benchmark 8 was recommended a few times. Supposed to be pretty sweet on the palate.

  • @neildonaghy123
    @neildonaghy123 Před 2 lety +1

    Great channel, love from Nottingham, England... and yes I do know Robin Hood and the Sheriff

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      Welcome and thank you! Great to have someone in the family that is so well connected lol!

  • @NothingMaster
    @NothingMaster Před 2 lety +1

    Your honest opinions are greatly appreciated.

  • @BoozeandNewswithTimandDut

    Early Times BiB is my favorite budget bourbon.. Wild Turkey 101 is another great budget bourbon

  • @wantedtosay8428
    @wantedtosay8428 Před rokem +1

    New subscriber here. Surprised EW Black Label had not been tried before this tasting from last year

  • @GraceFamily1995
    @GraceFamily1995 Před 2 lety +2

    Try the Evan Williams Single Barrel. Delicious!!

  • @borgcutus5780
    @borgcutus5780 Před 2 lety +1

    I just tried another Evan Williams that is probably another tic up the quality stack, The 1783 Small Batch. At first I was thinking it was budget since even in PA I got it for under $20, but it may not qualify as "budget" like the 5 you just tried would. That said, I got it for use primarily as a mixer, but as I normally do I'll try a sip neat, and then try it on the cube. It was pretty decent neat, and as expected a bit smoother on the cube. It has a light but decent bourbon nose. Pretty tasty especially considering the cost. 90 proof, I made an old fashioned with it, and it held up ok.

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      Good to know! Others have liked the 1783 as well!

  • @scottbandy4070
    @scottbandy4070 Před 2 lety +1

    Will always preach the joy of early Times BiB..or just plain ol early times.

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      Soooo goood! Haven’t seen it in my area for quite a while now 🤷🏻

  • @tanner2238
    @tanner2238 Před 2 lety +2

    As somebody just getting into bourbon these are my favorite videos. I'm way more interested in getting the most bang for my buck under $100 than paying 200+ for a bottle of bourbon that you had to compete with hundreds of people also trying to buy the same limited supply

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +2

      Completely agree! More of these types of videos in the works! Thanks so much!

    • @danh9150
      @danh9150 Před 2 lety +1

      I recommend you try Early Times. It’s $20, a full liter, bottled in bond and 100 proof. Beats out many more expensive bourbons in blind taste tests. I heard they were bought by Buffalo Trace so I am not sure how long this will last. My sons and I have about 20 bottles each.

    • @jesusjones3014
      @jesusjones3014 Před 2 lety +1

      @@danh9150 saw a video discussing the difference of the old Early Times BiB label vs the new. Cant for the life of me remember how to tell the difference lol. Still got 2 bottles of the old ET BiB, great stuff!

  • @sweetlisa22
    @sweetlisa22 Před 2 lety +1

    Try the Very Old Barton 100 BIB for $12-14 and its very drinkable. Same with Even Williams BIB. I like the Benchmark Full Proof, but I like that BT mash bill. Never been a JB fan so I cant argue with you on that one. Great Video.

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety +1

      Thanks so much! I did look at some of these other bottles as well but at the end of the day I really wanted the show to be about true budget bourbons! Thank you for your suggestions!

  • @codymccollem4153
    @codymccollem4153 Před 2 lety +1

    I like the Very Old Barton's at 86 proof over the 80. Believe it was $13 last bottle I bought. Solid mixer.

  • @ChrisDoyle2112
    @ChrisDoyle2112 Před rokem +1

    WOW! JB is my go to. I found Benchmark an adequate substitute, same with EW. Never even heard of the other two. Still surprised how offensive JB was to your pallet. I always find it oaky and sweet!

  • @tonybeckman1774
    @tonybeckman1774 Před 2 lety +1

    I'm fairly new to bourbon tasting and to your videos, but very much appreciate your opinion. I have almost finished a Evan Williams bottled in bond that I think is pretty decent. Do you ever rate small craft distilleries? That would be interesting. Tony

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      I haven’t much as of yet but I do need to get into that subject.

  • @coreyjohnson567
    @coreyjohnson567 Před 2 lety +1

    I enjoy your videos.... It was interesting to me that you enjoyed the Evan Williams as it has been my every day bourbon for quite a while. My friends and I have been enjoying various bottles ranging from $25 to $75 per bottle. I am looking for a bottle, that for us, at $250 to $500 would be a special occasion bottle. Do you have a few recomendations? (I live in New England)

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      Honestly, any Bardstown discovery series will run you 120-140. Start there, they are delicious! If you like Irish Red Breast 21 yr.
      Past that you are looking at allocated choices which are very hard to find.

  • @michaelconnolly4109
    @michaelconnolly4109 Před 2 lety +1

    Jim Beam & Even Williams, one is always in the house.

    • @slbdrinks
      @slbdrinks  Před 2 lety

      You can’t beat that! I just tried some Jim Beam single barrel lately and thought it was excellent!