The Best Wheated Bourbons Under $50, Ranked Worst To Best

Wheated bourbons are known for their smoothness and distinctive flavor profile. The problem for many enthusiasts is that popular wheated brands such as Pappy Van Winkle and Weller can be extremely expensive. Thankfully, for those looking for a great affordable wheated bourbon, there are still plenty of options. Here, I'm taking a look at the best available for under $50. As long as it's under that price mark, is a bourbon, and has wheat in its mash bill, then it's eligible for this list.

With all these expressions having a similar price tag, the rating is almost exclusively based on tasting notes. Where I found it hard to split them, accessibility was also considered. I've had plenty of personal experience with a wide range of wheated bourbon, and this experience has allowed me to see which expressions excel in using this grain and which fall short; see the end of this article for more information on my methodology. The result is a list you can rely on when you purchase your next bottle of wheated bourbon.

Kentucky dominates the bourbon market, but there are still plenty of brilliant bottles that can be found further afield. One such expression is this whiskey, produced in New York by Finger Lakes Distilling. It pays homage to the Bottled in Bond Act of 1897, which was brought in to ensure whiskey standards and prevent counterfeiting. Part of those laws this McKenzie bottle abides by requires this whiskey to be at least four years old and bottled at 100 proof. That higher proof helps make this a robust bourbon, while still having the softness you want from a wheated bottle.

It has an enticing aroma, with the most distinctive smell being a subtle char. Taste-wise, it offers delicate notes of honey and butterscotch. They sit on a bed of cinnamon and nutmeg, giving the drink an enjoyable warmth. The texture is pleasing too, with a decent finish. It doesn't quite have the balance of others on this list, and the notes on the palate aren't as well-rounded, however. Its lesser availability outside New York and the fact that it's at the top of this price bracket also affects its standing. If you want a non-Kentucky wheated bourbon, this bottle will satisfy your curiosity and would be a nice addition to your collection. But it doesn't deserve to be any higher on this list.

This whiskey is named after a legendary distiller who first made bourbon in the back of his grocery store in St. Louis. Now made by Lux Row Distillers, David Nicholson 1843 has all the smoothness that fans of wheated bourbon love. Bottled at 100 proof, it's a good whiskey with a great price. It's also nicely presented with a classic bottle design and a vintage-inspired label that will strike a chord with those nostalgic for the golden age of bourbon.

Once poured, a buttery aroma lingers in the background and transfers to a rich mouthfeel. Upon tasting, the sweet notes stand out against the whiskey's mellow character, with honey being the most delicious of all. There is a warmth, too, which comes from some mild spice and oak. These flavors aren't quite as developed as they are in other expressions, though, and some regions have limited availability. There are better wheated bourbons on this list, but this will appeal to anyone looking for something a little different.

When it comes to having a great selection of affordable wheated bourbons, no brand does it better than Maker's Mark. All four bourbons from Maker's Mark's core lineup qualify for this list. However, not wanting to flood the list with just one brand, I settled for highlighting two expressions. Maker's Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon is not just many enthusiasts' first wheated whiskey, but their first bourbon entirely, including myself. Many a bottle has been drunk since, partly due to its fantastic taste but also its exceptional value for money. Known for its iconic wax seal. Marker's Mark is further renowned for its handcrafted traditions and consistently smooth tasting profile.

The brand used a high proportion of red winter wheat in the mash bill, which helps make the whiskey both sweet and approachable. Tasting notes of vanilla and toffee shine brightest, but there is also a foundation of earthy flavor that comes from toasted wood and cinnamon and some fruity notes. Thus we get to the point in the list where bourbons start to have a little more depth. The finish is mellow and satisfying, helping to leave a lasting impression. Its wide availability makes it an easy choice for those new to wheated bourbons. Its flavor profile may be relatively straightforward compared to more mature options, but this whiskey more than deserves its spot here.

Wheated bourbons typically use wheat in the mash bill instead of rye. This is accompanied by corn and barley. A few expressions, such as Frey Ranch Straight Bourbon, use all four grains. The aim is to get the best of all worlds, but it often doesn't work out that way. This expression, though, shows how it should be done: You get the luxurious feel of wheat and the warmth of rye in Frey Ranch Straight Bourbon. What's more, all of these grains are grown on-site. Produced in Fallon, Nevada, this bourbon is also presented in what I think is the most beautiful bottle on this list. The package makes this an intriguing expression before you've even twisted off the cork.

Once poured, you get to enjoy its enticing aroma. It has a few unique notes, including citrus and orange. These are underscored with more subtle hints of oak and spice. The palate gives you a tapestry of flavors including banana, and added complexity that comes from cedar and pepper. With the distillery's emphasis on growing its own sustainable grain, it's perfect for those who care about the environment. Even if you don't, it's simply great bourbon. The only slight negative is that availability can be an issue, and its flavors may be too mellow for those who prefer robust whiskey.

I've given some love to niche brands here, but here's one that's a little more well-known. This small batch expression has a bold flavor profile, which is helped by its 110 proof, befitting Rebel Bourbon's adventurous spirit. As with the David Nicholson bourbon mentioned above, this expression is crafted by Lux Row Distillers in Bardstown, Kentucky. The recipe used dates back to 1849 — there's no point changing a winning formula, after all.

In terms of tasting notes, there isn't anything too unique here, but there doesn't have to be. Rebel Small Batch Reserve does the basics extremely well, providing you with plenty of rich flavor. Along with all the classic bourbon tasting notes, syrup, dark fruits, and cinnamon are present. The high proof gives it a warm finish, but with that soft wheated style. It's a bold and unapologetic bourbon that still has a sensitive side. Some may find it a little too intense, which is understandable. But for those who crave both power and depth from their bourbon, this is excellent value for money.

As I said above, no brand does affordable wheated bourbon quite like Maker's Mark. Finding cask-strength whiskey for under $50 is extremely difficult, but this expression just sneaks under that mark. It has the bold flavor you expect from a high-proof bourbon, but its use of red winter wheat gives it a pleasant sophistication as well. As all great bourbons do, it beautifully rides the line between a robust tasting profile and being easily drinkable. Once you pour yourself a glass, its enticing aroma hints at its depth, boasting a range of spices and dark fruits.

There is an explosion of flavor on the palate upon first sip. The oak influence is instantly noticeable, as is the fact that it's spicier than most other wheated bourbons. Along with these tastes, there is rich toffee and an earthy, nutty flavor. With it being cask strength, the proof can vary slightly, but is usually around the 110 region. Drinking it with a few drops of water can help develop its flavor and further showcase its intensity. There may be better wheated bourbons out there, but not at this price. It has a complexity you'd expect from more expensive bottles and a full-bodied character seasoned bourbon drinkers will love. The only possible downside is that its high proof may be a little much for the casual drinker. However, if you're an enthusiast wanting to explore wheated bourbons on a budget, Maker's Mark Cask Strength is the standout choice.