15 Best Whiskeys for Under $35

In the realm of whiskey, price doesn't always dictate quality. While there are certainly high-end bottles worth the splurge, there are also many affordable options that have exceptional flavor, complexity, and character that won’t break the bank.

Whether you're a seasoned whiskey enthusiast or just starting to sample this beloved amber spirit, here are some solid options under $35 that deserve a place on your shelf without jeopardizing your financial fitness.

Editor’s note: Prices are subject to change and may vary by location.

Price: $23.99

Named after the year Kentucky joined the union, 1792 Small Batch Bourbon is a staple whiskey in many collections. It’s characterized by rye, vanilla, and caramel throughout the smelling and sipping experience.

Fans enjoy it neat or mixing an Old Fashioned with this classic bourbon.

Price: $26.99

Buffalo Trace is well known for its limited edition products, but their flagship bourbon has layers of flavor, ranging from fruity notes like cherry to vanilla and caramel sweetness.

Aficionados recommend having it on the rocks for sipping and appreciate that it’s exceptionally smooth and consistent from bottle to bottle.

Price: $23.99

Bulleit is a daily sipping spirit for connoisseurs on a budget that doubles as a mixer for cocktails like Kentucky Mules and Spiked Arnold Palmers.

In addition to classic bourbon flavors like vanilla and oak, cinnamon stands out in the nose and flavor. It’s a solid, well-balanced spirit.

Price: $15.99
Early Times Bottled in Bond is truly a “bottom shelf king.” Its aroma is the best part, filled with woody, earthy notes, followed by a super warm sip. The finish lingers with a hint of licorice.

Reviewers say that for the price, it’s hard to believe it doesn’t burn more going down.

Price tag: $26.99

Nuttiness and oakiness are highlights of this whiskey, though, in taste and smell, there’s a good deal of grassiness along with more classic flavors like vanilla and caramel.

There’s a kiss of fruitiness at the finish, rounding out a sip that fans say is not complex but is satisfying.

Price: $17.49

This whiskey may be young, but its peanutty, caramel sweetness and baked vanilla flavor mask any graininess. For a bottle this cheap at this proof, aficionados ardently explain it’s a great deal.

It’s the workhorse you reach for when you want a mixed drink at the end of the day.

Price: $29.99

Four Roses is the Goldilocks of affordable whiskey, thanks to the balance of caramel, spice, oak, and fruitness that’s just right. The long finish stands out, too, encouraging you to keep sipping.

Customers love the quality you get for the price and enjoy it on the rocks or in an Old Fashioned.

Price: $25.99

Starting with a berry-forward aroma with floral notes and progressing into a strong and spicy maple flavor, George Dickel 8 Year is made like a classic Tennessee whiskey but skews bourbon.

Not surprisingly, fans say it’s smooth and warm and great neat or on the rocks.

Price: $19.99

Ages in not one but two charred white oak barrels, this spirit delivers on the promise of oakiness throughout. It also has a classic chocolaty caramel note in the nose with vanilla and fruit in the flavor.

Reviewers recommend using Jim Beam Double Oak in mixed drinks.

Price: $27.36 (1.75ml bottle)

The only reason Crown Royal didn’t make this list is because Costco’s Canadian whisky tastes just like the stuff and is significantly cheaper. The only difference is that it’s a bit spicier.

Fans speculate it’s made by the same folks, but the rumor has yet to be substantiated.

Price: $32.99

With a long history and esteemed reputation, Knob Creek arguably sets the standard for excellent yet affordable whiskey. It delivers all of the classic aromas and flavors beautifully — vanilla, caramel, oak, and spice — at 100 proof.

Whether you mix it or sip it, you’ll enjoy it.

Price: $28.99

This wheaty bourbon is often overlooked, but it’s a worthy addition to your bar thanks to its beautifully complex nose, sweet and nutty yet grassy and spicy flavor, and no-nonsense finish.

It’s a great daily sipper per aficionados, whether neat or on the rocks.

Price: $22.99

Maker's Mark is a true Kentucky classic, with a sweet and rich toffee aroma and flavor combined with deep, rich fruit. It’s wheaty due to the lack of rye in the recipe, as well as extra smooth.

Plenty of fans keep a bottle of this O.G. on the bar for Manhattans and Old Fashioneds.

Price: $32.99

From distillery O.G. Wild Turkey, Russel’s Reserve has a more refined body and smoother flavor than the flagship Wild Turkey offering. The profile has shifted a bit over the years, but it’s still a worthy contender.

Vanilla-forward, sweet, nutty, oaky, and spicy; enjoy it neat or on the rocks.

Price: $21.99

Most truly noteworthy Irish whiskeys have a higher price point, but this spirit has a fruity nose, smooth vanilla taste, and spicy citrusy finish worth trying.

Best enjoyed neat, reviewers point out it lacks the burn of comparable Jameson, giving it the edge.

This collection of affordable whiskey proves that great quality and affordability can go hand-in-hand. From classic Kentucky bourbons to mellow Canadian blends, there's a range of spirits to sample without exceeding your budget, so you can keep more cash in your wallet.

That said, we know you have some higher-end whiskeys in your cabinet that set the bar high. But everyone needs those more affordable staple bottles for that Thursday evening nightcap or hot toddy.