Texas Bourbon Under $50 – Are they Any Good?

Deep in the heart of Texas, beyond its sprawling ranches, iconic longhorns, and storied history, a different kind of magic is being distilled. The Lone Star State, known for its diverse landscapes and bigger-than-life attitude, has in recent years become a hotbed for bourbons that are as bold and characterful as Texas itself. And the best part? Many of these Texan treasures won’t burn a hole in your pocket. In this article, we’ll journey through the mesquite-filled plains and winding rivers of Texas to uncover the best bourbons produced in the state, all for under $50. Whether you’re a whiskey connoisseur or a curious novice, these selections promise a taste of Texas that’s both memorable and affordable.

The table below shows the results of my research.

One thing to note as you look at the different options and their “grades” as assigned by Liquid Lonestar, is that you are looking at the lowest cost bourbons in Texas. No different than what happens in Kentucky with their bourbons, there are good ones and bad ones, and there are cheap ones and expensive ones. The Texas Bourbon scene is no different. However, even if you buy an inexpensive bottle, you don’t want to be giving it away or pouring it out because you don’t like it. So, however, you can, get as educated as you can on these bourbons and increase your chances of finding a great bourbon that won’t break the bank.

One way I look at it is that if you can find them you can make the comparison of these bourbons with a few low-cost favorites from Kentucky, such as WL Weller Special Reserve or Buffalo Trace. You could even throw in a Four Roses Small Batch with them. These three all cost less than $40 for a 750ml bottle and represent the bourbon market with high quality and low cost. Frankly, this is what I am looking for in some of the Texas produced bourbons. Unfortunately, I generally can’t find that combination and find myself spending double the cost of the Kentucky versions to get comparable quality in a Texas bourbon. However, the Texas bourbon industry is still in its infancy and has room to grow.

Texas, known for its rich history and diverse culture, has ventured into the bourbon industry, producing a variety of bourbons that cater to different market segments. Lower-cost Texas-produced bourbons offer consumers a more affordable entry into the world of Texas whiskey, without compromising too much on taste and quality. While these bourbons might lack the depth, complexity, and age of their higher-end counterparts, many of them present palatable profiles suitable for both sipping and mixing. On the other hand, higher-cost Texas bourbons, often made with more refined processes and aged longer, showcase a depth of flavor and character that discerning bourbon enthusiasts appreciate. These premium offerings exemplify the state’s potential to compete on a national stage, delivering unique tasting notes influenced by Texas’ climate and terroir. Both segments, however, reflect Texas’ commitment to craftsmanship and innovation in the bourbon industry.

About the Author

A native of Texas, Ken “Texan” Pierce is a renowned alcohol aficionado with over 15 years of experience in the Texas wine, whiskey, and beer industry. With a vast number of alcohol production resources right in his back yard in the Texas Hill Country, Ken has made it his mission to promote and advance the Texas winemaking, distilling, and brewing industry across the country.  His uncanny ability to identify tasting notes and pairings makes him a respected authority within alcohol enthusiast circles. When he’s not reviewing the latest craft spirits, you can find Ken playing his guitar, trying to sing, and sipping on a Texas libation.