Welcome to another special bonus episode of Film & Whiskey! Today, we’re tackling a topic that’s close to every whiskey lover’s heart: finding the best whiskey at every price point. We’ve sifted through our extensive catalog of reviews—over 400 episodes worth!—and broken down our recommendations by whiskey type and price range. Whether you’re a bourbon enthusiast, a Scotch aficionado, or just looking to add a new bottle to your collection, we’ve got you covered.
The Rules
For this episode, we set a few ground rules. We divided our selections into five price categories:
- Under $25
- $25 to $50
- $50 to $80
- $80 to $120
- Over $120
Within each category, we selected our top picks across different whiskey types: Rye, Irish, International, Scotch, and Bourbon. We aimed to provide a mix of everyday options and special occasion bottles, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Rye Whiskey
Under $25: Old Overholt 100 Proof
For a budget-friendly rye, Old Overholt 100 Proof is a solid choice. It’s an everyday sipper that punches above its weight class, offering a robust rye spice that’s hard to beat at this price.
$25 to $50: Michter’s US 1 Single Barrel Rye
Michter’s US 1 Rye is a standout in this category. Brad rates it as one of his all-time favorite ryes, and it’s easy to see why. It’s well-balanced, with a perfect mix of spice and sweetness.
$50 to $80: Hunting Creek Rye
Hunting Creek Rye is a hidden gem that delivers exceptional value. At around $50, it offers a rich, complex profile that rivals much more expensive bottles.
$80 to $120: Barrel Seagrass
This was an easy pick. Barrel Seagrass is not just the best rye in this price range—it’s one of the best ryes we’ve ever had. With its unique finishing process and explosive flavor profile, it’s a must-try.
Over $120: Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye
In the luxury category, Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye reigns supreme. This bottle delivers an unforgettable drinking experience, making it worth every penny.
Irish Whiskey
Under $25: The Sexton Single Malt Irish Whiskey
At just $25, The Sexton is a steal. It’s a single malt that offers depth and complexity rarely found at this price point, making it our top pick for budget Irish whiskey.
$25 to $50: Jameson
Jameson is a classic for a reason. It’s accessible, versatile, and consistently delivers a smooth, enjoyable experience. It’s the go-to choice in this price bracket.
International Whiskey
$50 to $80: Nikka from the Barrel
Nikka from the Barrel is an exceptional Japanese whiskey that packs a punch at around $70. Its balance of rich flavors makes it a standout in the international category.
$80 to $120: Amrut Fusion
Amrut Fusion from India is our pick for this range. Its unique blend of Indian and Scottish barley creates a whisky that’s rich, complex, and utterly captivating.
Scotch Whiskey
Under $25: Cutty Sark
Cutty Sark is our budget-friendly pick. Finding quality Scotch under $25 can be a challenge, but Cutty Sark is a standout in this category. Priced around $17, this blended Scotch is often overlooked. It’s a classic Scotch that’s perfect for mixing and surprisingly good on its own for the price.
$25 to $50: Monkey Shoulder
In the blended category, Monkey Shoulder takes the crown. It’s a versatile Scotch that’s great for both sipping and cocktails, offering smooth, malt-forward flavors. Brad highlights it as “the best blended Scotch in this price bracket,” offering a smooth, malty profile with hints of vanilla. Whether neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, it’s a great pick.
$50 to $80: Talisker 10
Talisker 10 is the clear winner in this price range. It’s a single malt that delivers a perfect balance of smoke, maritime character, and subtle sweetness. Brad notes, “Talisker 10 has a depth of flavor that I loved,” with its smoky, peppery notes balanced by a touch of sweetness. At around $70, it’s a prime example of what a great Scotch should be at this price point.
$80 to $120: Lagavulin 16
Lagavulin 16 is the quintessential Islay single malt. Priced at around $105, its rich, smoky profile is balanced with a complex sweetness that makes it worth every dollar. Brad describes it as “luxurious and perfect for special occasions.” Pair it with a well-seasoned steak, and it’s a match made in heaven.
Bourbon Whiskey
Under $25: Rebel 100
Rebel 100 If you're looking for bourbon under $25, Rebel 100 is a standout option. Priced around $20, this bottle offers excellent value with a rich, full-bodied flavor that balances spice and sweetness perfectly. As Brad puts it, “Rebel 100 is easily a 15 out of 10 in terms of value,” making it a great choice for those wanting a budget-friendly yet high-quality bourbon.
$25 to $50: Cooper’s Craft Barrel Reserve
Cooper’s Craft Barrel Reserve and Rebel Distiller’s Collection take the spotlight. Cooper’s Craft 100, as Bob notes, often flies under the radar despite offering great versatility. It’s fantastic neat or in cocktails, making it an excellent all-around choice.
On the other hand, Rebel Distiller’s Collection is Brad’s favorite. As he explains, “It elevates everything great about Rebel 100, presenting it in a more refined, premium version.” Priced at around $45, it delivers richer flavors and a smoother finish.
$50 to $80: Woodford Reserve Double Oaked
Woodford Reserve Double Oaked is a crowd-pleaser and a personal favorite. Brad recalls, “Woodford Double Oaked was the first whiskey that made me realize just how exceptional bourbon can be.” This bottle provides a complex flavor profile, combining vanilla, caramel, and toasted oak, making it a favorite among whiskey lovers. Its deep, sweet, and oaky profile makes it a must-have for any bourbon lover.
$80 to $120: Barrel Vantage
Barrel Vantage is our top pick in this range. It’s a beautifully crafted bourbon that showcases the art of blending at its finest. At around $90, Barrell Vantage offers a masterfully balanced bourbon with a complex array of flavors, reflecting the brand's blending expertise.
Over $120: Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel
Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel is the ultimate luxury bourbon. It’s bold, complex, and everything you could want in a high-end bottle. Bottled at barrel proof, this bourbon offers an intense, concentrated flavor that’s unmatched by most other bourbons. If you’re willing to spend the money, Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel is a remarkable choice.
Other high-end options include Bardstown Amrut Collaborative Series and Old Forester 150th Anniversary, both of which offer unique and luxurious experiences. However, Blanton’s Straight from the Barrel remains the top pick for its exceptional quality and flavor.
Conclusion
There you have it—the best whiskey at every price point. Whether you’re just starting your collection or looking to splurge on something special, these bottles represent the best value for your money. Now, we want to hear from you! What are your favorite whiskies at each price point?
Let us know on social media or join the conversation on our Discord. Cheers!
