The 12 Best Low-Proof Bourbons To Buy

In the world of bourbon, many enthusiasts have long waxed lyrical about the delights of high-proof or cask-strength bourbon expressions. But in this quest for intense and bold bourbons, low-proof options often get overlooked, which we think is a great shame. Low-proof bourbons may not possess the robust qualities of their high-proof counterparts, but they are perfect for those who appreciate a mellower type of bourbon. They are also ideal for those new to whiskey who haven't overcome the burning sensation that some drinkers can struggle with.

There is no strict definition of what makes a low-strength bourbon. Some would say it's anything below 100 proof, but we don't think this is what you'll be looking for, which is why we've opted for offerings in the 80- to 89-proof region for an exploration of lower-strength bourbon. At this level, you'll find plenty of spirits that have subtlety and nuance, which may be a little more suited to your palate and experience. 

The following collection of low-proof bourbons were selected based on personal sipping experience, with the distiller's dedication to quality and popular opinion in mind. Whether you're new to the world of spirits or just looking for something more laid back, these bourbons prove that sometimes, less is more.

Here, we have another 80-proof bourbon, but one that has a significantly different mash bill from that of Old Grand-Dad. The corn content is similar at 68%, but the rest comprises 20% wheat and 12% malted barley. Produced by the Heaven Hill Distillery, it's a highly approachable bourbon, and Old Fitzgerald is known for its smoother and lighter drinking experience. In the glass, it has quite a dark color, which isn't too dissimilar to honey. On the nose, the lack of rye means you don't get much spiciness, but instead, you receive warm, sweet aromas of caramel and honey with a slight hint of oak.

Many love the palate of this whiskey for its smoothness and velvety mouthfeel. Beyond its texture, tastes of caramel and a touch of toffee and butterscotch come through. There is some spice there, but it's only very subtle, which is ideal for those seeking a milder whiskey. The finish is quite clean, too, adding to its appeal. For those who aren't sure whether they'll like bourbon or not, Old Fitzgerald is a good acid test because of its mild palate. Due to that versatility, it's a great bourbon to use as a mixer or in cocktails.

Old Crow has a few similarities with Old Grand-Dad. The two are 80-proof whiskeys made by the Jim Beam Distillery. Another similarity is its use of rye in the mash bill, but the makeup is much different, with 75% corn along with 13% rye and 12% malted barley. Old Crow is known for being a budget-friendly whiskey, but there's nothing wrong with that, as it proves cheap doesn't automatically mean low quality.

Old Crow has a storied history, but production problems in the late 20^th century led to a decline in quality and eventual takeover by Jim Beam. The whiskey made under its name today is still highly enjoyable, even if it is a little light on the nose. The aromas are quite tame, but you get some nice citrus smells along with corn, honey, and oak. The flavor profile is straightforward, with some mild sweetness from the corn and nice hints of vanilla, toffee, and oak. Relatively short and surprisingly spicy, the finish will creep up on you. Is this the nicest bourbon you've ever going to taste? No, it's not, but we still think it's good value for money, given its budget price tag. While it may not be the Old Crow of, well, old, it's the perfect whiskey for anyone looking to pick up a cheap bourbon with an enjoyable taste profile.

Jim Beam White Label, also simply known as Jim Beam bourbon, ranks as the most well-known bourbon on this list. It's an iconic whiskey that is not only popular in America but also around the world. It's a great representation of Kentucky straight bourbon and will be the first whiskey that passed the lips of many enthusiasts. Part of the reason for its popularity is just how approachable it is, with this being an 80-proof expression. It has the same mash bill as the Old Crow above, but differences in its maturation and storage help to impart a higher level of quality.

On the nose, you get some inviting vanilla and caramel aromas along with toasted oak. The stage is set for a classic bourbon experience with a golden amber color that sits pretty in any glass you pour. On the palate, the White Label offers a well-balanced combination of flavors. The sweetness of the corn comes through initially, followed by caramel. Deeper in, you get some subtle spiciness and nutty notes. There's nothing deeply complex here, but that's the beauty of it. While there are nicer low-proof bourbons out there, the history of Jim Beam with White Label, its affordability, and its quality means this is a must-buy for anyone starting their whiskey journey. It has stood the test of time and is a great gateway whiskey to higher-strength expressions.

Created by actors Ian Somerhalder and Paul Wesley, most commonly known for their roles in "The Vampire Diaries," this is a relatively new player in the bourbon scene. Its celebrity backing would have meant little if this whiskey didn't deliver, but instead, it stands on its own and has gained a host of admirers. The mash bill here is quite interesting, as four grains are used. The level of corn is 65%, with rye at 22%. The rest comprises wheat and barley, but exact percentages aren't given. High wheat and high rye bourbons have varying characteristics, leading to a blend of the two developing an interesting, unique taste profile.

The nose gives you familiar caramel, vanilla, and spice notes before you get on to the complex flavor. What's impressive with Brother's Bond is that you get that depth of flavor that some think only high-proof bourbons are capable of. Toasted sugar hits the palate before tasting some oak and an impressive undercurrent of cinnamon and nutmeg. It's an impressive combination but one that doesn't overwhelm, especially considering this is an 80-proof bourbon. A little more expensive than a few other offerings in this list, it's easy to see why. Brother's Bond certainly holds its own and is more than just a celebrity-backed spirit.

We found Tincup Fourteener the hardest to place on the list, as it's a newcomer to the world of whiskey and also quite expensive. However, this 84-proof Colorado bourbon has quickly gained attention due to its fine taste and unique story. The bourbon's name is a double entendre as it not only references the age of the whiskey but also the 58 peaks in Colorado above 14,000 feet, commonly referred to as Fourteeners. 

Of course, the uniqueness of a Colorado whiskey means little if it falls short of a taste test. Starting in the glass, you not only notice the deep amber hue of the whiskey but also the rich legs it has. It has an intriguing mix of vanilla and toasted oak on the nose, with a hint of citrus. It is made with a rye composition of 32%, and you get the warmth that is provided in both the nose and on your first taste.

The profile of Tincup Fourteener is well-balanced in honeyed sweetness harmonizing with the rye minerality. The more subtle influences come from dried fruit and baking spices, like cinnamon. The finish is long and lingering, leaving you with a great first impression. For those looking for something different, a bourbon made with Rocky Mountain water and matured at high altitude ticks all the right boxes.

Not quite as cheap as the Evan Williams but still highly affordable, Old Forester 86 is our number one pick. This 86-proof whiskey comes from the renowned Brown-Forman distillery, known for its rich history of producing quality whiskey, including Jack Daniel's. The brand also has a fascinating history, as we can thank Old Forester's founder for first bottling bourbon. The 86 is its most accessible entry, and if you like this, you'll enjoy sampling all of its other offerings.

The mash bill here is 72% corn, 18% rye, and 10% malted barley, which gives you a nose of caramel and vanilla with more subtle hints of oak. It sets the scene for an enjoyable drinking experience. You'll get some initial sweetness of caramel and butterscotch before this is complemented by gentle spice from the rye. There is an oak influence that adds depth to the whiskey but without overpowering the overall taste. It's a bourbon that perfectly balances sweetness and spice that many other expressions struggle with.

At 86-proof, it provides a mellow experience but still offers some of the heat you get with high-proof whiskeys. It does that without being overwhelming, making it perfect for whiskey novices. All the bourbons in this list are approachable for those looking for a less intense sip. However, with its affordable price tag and well-balanced palate, the Old Forester 86 claims our top spot on the best low-proof bourbons you can buy.