Best Bourbons Under $50 for Mint Juleps on Kentucky Derby Day

Best Bourbons

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Best Bourbons for Mint Juleps
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House of Bourbon

It's tradition to celebrate the Kentucky Derby with free-flowing mint juleps. Whether making a classic version or putting a spin on it, you'll still want to stock up on bourbon. The corn-based American whiskey is one of the most beloved spirits worldwide and, luckily for all its fans out there, comes in plenty of good options under $50, with some under $30. Any one of these bourbons is a great foundation for derby day drinks — and for a well-stocked home bar.


Prices and availability are subject to change.


Related: Spirits and Mixers Every Home Bar Should Have

Heaven's Door Straight American Bourbon
Flaviar

Heaven's Door Straight American Bourbon

$30 from Flaviar

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At 44 percent alcohol by volume, this bourbon is a little higher in alcohol than many standard examples. This means cocktails will be potent — especially useful when using the usual crushed ice.


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Noble Oak Double Oak Bourbon
Flaviar

Noble Oak Double Oak Bourbon

$40 from Flaviar

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This double-oaked spirit picks up satisfying sweet and caramelized flavors from extended wood aging. It's ideal for those who like drinks on the sweet side, or for recipes that use otherwise tart or even spicy flavors. 


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Jim Beam Single Barrel Bourbon
Total Wine

Jim Beam Single Barrel Bourbon

$45 from Total Wine

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This single-barrel release offers unique flavors that are distinct to the particular barrel selected for bottling. Cocktails where the nuances of the bourbon will shine are ideal. 


Related: Best Whiskey Under $50

Woodford Reserve Bourbon
Flaviar

Woodford Reserve Bourbon

$37 from Flaviar

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A tried and true classic that's extremely affordable, and a favorite among many bourbon drinkers for its smooth body. Useful in any recipe, or just for sipping on its own, this is a solid choice.

Maker's Mark Bourbon
Courtesy of makersmark.com

Maker's Mark Bourbon

$22 from Total Wine

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Another reliable classic, and a favorite that is easy to find across the country. A safe bet, especially when looking for a bourbon that is easy to mix with. 

1792 Full Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Total Wine

1792 Full Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon

$47 from Total Wine

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Full proof means the bourbon hasn't had any water added to bring down the alcohol by volume. With nearly 63 percent ABV, this is a powerhouse of a whiskey that could benefit from mixing with other low- or no-alcohol ingredients.

Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon
Flaviar
Four Roses Bourbon
Total Wine

Four Roses Bourbon

$17 from Total Wine

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Well known by bourbon drinkers for its incredible value and well balanced flavors, Four Roses' signature bottling is delicious and affordable. Many of its other special bottlings are also reasonably priced. 

Old Forester 100 Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Flaviar

Old Forester 100 Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon

$28 from Total Wine

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This 50 percent ABV bourbon comes from Kentucky, the state most steeped in bourbon history. The added strength creates full-flavored drinks for those who like to taste the booze in their cocktails. 


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Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Flaviar

Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon

$40 from Flaviar

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One of the most renowned bourbon producers, Buffalo Trace knows a thing or two about good whiskey. Its entry-level, namesake whiskey is a standard among bourbon fans and hands-down offers incredible value. 

William Wolf Bourbon
Total Wine

William Wolf Bourbon

$36 from Total Wine

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Hailing from South Carolina, this bourbon shows off some of the newer distilling efforts of the east coast. It may be a bit tricky to find in every state, but it has national distribution, which means it should be available across the country.