15 Best Whiskeys for Under $30

It can be nice to wind down after a long day with whiskey or start the night with party drinks.

But whiskeys can come in a variety of affordable choices, from plenty of expensive bottles.

So, if you’re trying to keep more money in your wallet, check out these options. They're good straight-up or mixed with your favorite drink ingredients for the perfect cocktail.

Jameson Irish Whiskey has a clean, crisp taste after being aged in bourbon and sherry casks.

It also has nut, vanilla, and spice notes, leading to a smooth finish for straight whiskey drinkers.

Check out Redemption Rye to try a take on Indiana's rye whiskey. The bottle includes rye notes as well as citrus and light floral tones.

It can be a great mix-in for whiskey cocktails that do well with a hint of mint.

You may be surprised to see Costco’s store brand whiskey on a list of the best whiskeys.

Kirkland Signature Canadian Whiskey can be a good substitute for Crown Royal whiskey at a lower price point than the better-known brand.

The Rebel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey 100 Proof is a small-batch bourbon that may be a great option if you prefer a straight-sipping drink with wheat tones out of Kentucky.

If you want to try something from Tennessee, the George Dickel Rye may be a good option for your whiskey collection. The rye bourbon includes spice and fruit notes that lead to a smooth finish, making it a good-tasting option on a budget.

Pendleton Canadian Whisky is a blended whiskey using whiskeys distilled from northern grains and aged in oak barrels.

Its smooth finish makes it great for sipping after a long day or if you just need a relaxing nightcap.

Tullamore D.E.W. Irish Whiskey has a sweet streak with apple, vanilla, and spice notes. Drink it on its own or make a delicious Irish coffee with it.

Bulleit Rye Whiskey is one of the most affordable whiskeys on this list, and it works great on its own.

The bottle includes hints of black cherry, peach, and apricot, giving it a pleasing aroma and taste for whiskey fans.

The Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey includes notes of brown sugar and cinnamon along with other spices to give it a long, dry finish whiskey fans.

It may seem like an obvious choice, but there’s a reason Jack Daniel’s is known so well for being good and affordable.

It’s perfect for mixed drinks like a classic Jack and Coke, or add it to a glass with some bitters and simple syrup for the perfect Old Fashioned.

The Early Times Bottled In Bond may be a good option if you’re looking for a whiskey with some added sweetness.

The bottle includes notes of chocolate, cinnamon, spices, and even a hint of cookies, giving it a unique flavor and finish.

The small-batch Ezra Brooks 99 Proof Bourbon Whiskey shines with a spicy rye bourbon taste.

The bottle also has a stand-out flavor due to its high-proof content and smooth finish, which is ideal for straight bourbon drinkers.

Bottles of the small-batch WL Weller Special Reserve Bourbon include plenty of wheat instead of the traditional rye grain to give it a flavor with a smooth taste.

Each bottle has 90-proof bourbon that’s been aged for seven years.

The Evan Williams Single Barrel has spicy notes and a complexity you may overlook initially.

The bourbon is aged for nine years, giving it some great taste without the high price tag that other bottles in the category may carry.

Johnnie Walker is another classic name in whiskey. Like Jack Daniel’s, it is known for affordable bottles that also taste good.

Grab a bottle of the classic Johnnie Walker Red Label. Its distinctive flavor comes through even when added to whiskey cocktails.

These selections let you save money shopping for a good whiskey without breaking the bank. You might even find a bottle that will help you learn how to invest in whiskey. 

Enjoy these budget-friendly options, savor the experience responsibly, and discover the world of flavors this versatile spirit offers.