Best bourbon whiskey in South Africa: 10 bottles under R750
South Africa
2024-03-17
If you have been searching for the best bourbons available in South Africa, you've reached the right place.
Let's explore 10 bottles of bourbon ranging from R230 to R700 and a little bit about each one to give you an insight into their flavours and aromas, production insights and importantly - pricing!
Read on to find out more. Join our community for more recommendations on bourbon and whiskey available in South Africa.
Best bourbon whiskey in South Africa: 10 bottles under R750
South Africa
2024-03-17
If you have been searching for the best bourbons available in South Africa, you've reached the right place.
Let's explore 10 bottles of bourbon ranging from R230 to R700 and a little bit about each one to give you an insight into their flavours and aromas, production insights and importantly - pricing!
Read on to find out more. Join our community for more recommendations on bourbon and whiskey available in South Africa.
Best bourbon whiskey in South Africa: 10 bottles under R750
South Africa
2024-03-17
If you have been searching for the best bourbons available in South Africa, you've reached the right place.
Let's explore 10 bottles of bourbon ranging from R230 to R700 and a little bit about each one to give you an insight into their flavours and aromas, production insights and importantly - pricing!
Read on to find out more. Join our community for more recommendations on bourbon and whiskey available in South Africa.
Key Takeaways
For those looking to splurge a little, premium bourbons such as Woodford Reserve, Maker's 46, 1792 Small Batch Bourbon and Knob Creek are great choices.
On the budget-friendly side, Jim Beam, Buffalo Trace and Makers Mark original, deliver remarkable flavours at a more budget-friendly pricepoint.
Best bourbons available in South Africa under R750 (ranked from lowest to highest)
To help you decide on the right bourbon to suit your budget preferences and palette, we've collected a list of both budget-friendly or more premium bourbon options to help you build your collection or try something new.
We've provided a short description of each bourbon and we've also taken the time to research some of the best prices from a select number of online stores.
*Prices were collect on 17 March 2024. so please be aware that some prices may be subject to change, especially in relation to promotional periods.
Best bourbons available in South Africa under R750 (ranked from lowest to highest)
To help you decide on the right bourbon to suit your budget preferences and palette, we've collected a list of both budget-friendly or more premium bourbon options to help you build your collection or try something new.
We've provided a short description of each bourbon and we've also taken the time to research some of the best prices from a select number of online stores.
*Prices were collect on 17 March 2024. so please be aware that some prices may be subject to change, especially in relation to promotional periods.
Best bourbons available in South Africa under R750 (ranked from lowest to highest)
To help you decide on the right bourbon to suit your budget preferences and palette, we've collected a list of both budget-friendly or more premium bourbon options to help you build your collection or try something new.
We've provided a short description of each bourbon and we've also taken the time to research some of the best prices from a select number of online stores.
*Prices were collect on 17 March 2024. so please be aware that some prices may be subject to change, especially in relation to promotional periods.
1. Jim Beam Bourbon
Jim Beam, produced in Clermont, Kentucky, by Beam Suntory, is arguably the world’s most famous bourbon.
It features a classic bourbon flavour profile with sweetness, wood, and hints of vanilla and spice, offering a straightforward, reliable bourbon experience.
Jim Beam has an affordable price range of R229 to R319. We found it online at at Makro for R229 or via Whisky Shop for R315, making it an excellent entry point for those exploring bourbon.
1. Jim Beam Bourbon
Jim Beam, produced in Clermont, Kentucky, by Beam Suntory, is arguably the world’s most famous bourbon.
It features a classic bourbon flavour profile with sweetness, wood, and hints of vanilla and spice, offering a straightforward, reliable bourbon experience.
Jim Beam has an affordable price range of R229 to R319. We found it online at at Makro for R229 or via Whisky Shop for R315, making it an excellent entry point for those exploring bourbon.
1. Jim Beam Bourbon
Jim Beam, produced in Clermont, Kentucky, by Beam Suntory, is arguably the world’s most famous bourbon.
It features a classic bourbon flavour profile with sweetness, wood, and hints of vanilla and spice, offering a straightforward, reliable bourbon experience.
Jim Beam has an affordable price range of R229 to R319. We found it online at at Makro for R229 or via Whisky Shop for R315, making it an excellent entry point for those exploring bourbon.
2. Maker's Mark Original Kentucky Straight bourbon whiskey
Maker's Mark, produced in Loretto, Kentucky, remains a stalwart in the bourbon industry with its handcrafted approach.
Its taste is marked by smooth, sweet flavours of wheat, barley, and caramel, making it a go-to for bourbon lovers who favor a softer, smoother profile.
The price for Maker's Mark ranges from R389 to R459, although recently it has been on special more often and you could snag a bottle for even less. We found it at Makro for R389 and via WhiskyShop for R450.
2. Maker's Mark Original Kentucky Straight bourbon whiskey
Maker's Mark, produced in Loretto, Kentucky, remains a stalwart in the bourbon industry with its handcrafted approach.
Its taste is marked by smooth, sweet flavours of wheat, barley, and caramel, making it a go-to for bourbon lovers who favor a softer, smoother profile.
The price for Maker's Mark ranges from R389 to R459, although recently it has been on special more often and you could snag a bottle for even less. We found it at Makro for R389 and via WhiskyShop for R450.
2. Maker's Mark Original Kentucky Straight bourbon whiskey
Maker's Mark, produced in Loretto, Kentucky, remains a stalwart in the bourbon industry with its handcrafted approach.
Its taste is marked by smooth, sweet flavours of wheat, barley, and caramel, making it a go-to for bourbon lovers who favor a softer, smoother profile.
The price for Maker's Mark ranges from R389 to R459, although recently it has been on special more often and you could snag a bottle for even less. We found it at Makro for R389 and via WhiskyShop for R450.
3. Buffalo Trace Bourbon
Buffalo Trace, crafted in Frankfort, Kentucky, by the Buffalo Trace Distillery, is a cornerstone of American bourbon.
This bourbon is celebrated for its complex blend of vanilla, caramel, and fruit notes, with a smooth finish that hints at its deep, aged roots.
Buffalo Trace is priced between R349 and R480. We found it at Makro for R349 or via Whisky Shop for R480.
3. Buffalo Trace Bourbon
Buffalo Trace, crafted in Frankfort, Kentucky, by the Buffalo Trace Distillery, is a cornerstone of American bourbon.
This bourbon is celebrated for its complex blend of vanilla, caramel, and fruit notes, with a smooth finish that hints at its deep, aged roots.
Buffalo Trace is priced between R349 and R480. We found it at Makro for R349 or via Whisky Shop for R480.
3. Buffalo Trace Bourbon
Buffalo Trace, crafted in Frankfort, Kentucky, by the Buffalo Trace Distillery, is a cornerstone of American bourbon.
This bourbon is celebrated for its complex blend of vanilla, caramel, and fruit notes, with a smooth finish that hints at its deep, aged roots.
Buffalo Trace is priced between R349 and R480. We found it at Makro for R349 or via Whisky Shop for R480.
4. Woodfood Reserve Bourbon
Woodford Reserve, distilled in Versailles, Kentucky, represents the height of craftsmanship from the Woodford Reserve Distillery.
Its rich flavour profile includes notes of dried fruit, chocolate, and spices, layered over a smooth, creamy base. It's an exemplar of balance and sophistication in bourbon.
Woodford Reserve's price ranges from R429 to R510. At Makro it was available for R429 and via Mothercity Liquor for R489.
4. Woodfood Reserve Bourbon
Woodford Reserve, distilled in Versailles, Kentucky, represents the height of craftsmanship from the Woodford Reserve Distillery.
Its rich flavour profile includes notes of dried fruit, chocolate, and spices, layered over a smooth, creamy base. It's an exemplar of balance and sophistication in bourbon.
Woodford Reserve's price ranges from R429 to R510. At Makro it was available for R429 and via Mothercity Liquor for R489.
4. Woodfood Reserve Bourbon
Woodford Reserve, distilled in Versailles, Kentucky, represents the height of craftsmanship from the Woodford Reserve Distillery.
Its rich flavour profile includes notes of dried fruit, chocolate, and spices, layered over a smooth, creamy base. It's an exemplar of balance and sophistication in bourbon.
Woodford Reserve's price ranges from R429 to R510. At Makro it was available for R429 and via Mothercity Liquor for R489.
5. Bulleit Bourbon
Distilled in Kentucky, USA, by Bulleit Distilling Co., Bulleit Bourbon is known for its bold, spicy character that stands out in the crowded bourbon market.
Its flavour profile is rich with notes of oak, rye, and vanilla. These are complemented by subtle hints of maple and nutmeg, making it a favourite among those who appreciate a bourbon with depth and complexity.
Priced between R589 and R615, Bulleit Bourbon offers great value. We found it at Makro for R599 or Whisky Shop (R615) for a taste of Kentucky tradition.
5. Bulleit Bourbon
Distilled in Kentucky, USA, by Bulleit Distilling Co., Bulleit Bourbon is known for its bold, spicy character that stands out in the crowded bourbon market.
Its flavour profile is rich with notes of oak, rye, and vanilla. These are complemented by subtle hints of maple and nutmeg, making it a favourite among those who appreciate a bourbon with depth and complexity.
Priced between R589 and R615, Bulleit Bourbon offers great value. We found it at Makro for R599 or Whisky Shop (R615) for a taste of Kentucky tradition.
5. Bulleit Bourbon
Distilled in Kentucky, USA, by Bulleit Distilling Co., Bulleit Bourbon is known for its bold, spicy character that stands out in the crowded bourbon market.
Its flavour profile is rich with notes of oak, rye, and vanilla. These are complemented by subtle hints of maple and nutmeg, making it a favourite among those who appreciate a bourbon with depth and complexity.
Priced between R589 and R615, Bulleit Bourbon offers great value. We found it at Makro for R599 or Whisky Shop (R615) for a taste of Kentucky tradition.
6. 1792 Small Batch Bourbon
1792 Small Batch, from the Barton 1792 Distillery in Kentucky, USA, offers a distinct take on traditional bourbon.
This bourbon charms with a balanced mix of caramel, fruit, and peppery spice flavours, leading to a finish that's both smooth and inviting. Its small batch status signifies careful selection and blending.
When researching online, its price ranged from R449 to R679, for example R449 at Makro or R675 at WhiskyShop.
6. 1792 Small Batch Bourbon
1792 Small Batch, from the Barton 1792 Distillery in Kentucky, USA, offers a distinct take on traditional bourbon.
This bourbon charms with a balanced mix of caramel, fruit, and peppery spice flavours, leading to a finish that's both smooth and inviting. Its small batch status signifies careful selection and blending.
When researching online, its price ranged from R449 to R679, for example R449 at Makro or R675 at WhiskyShop.
6. 1792 Small Batch Bourbon
1792 Small Batch, from the Barton 1792 Distillery in Kentucky, USA, offers a distinct take on traditional bourbon.
This bourbon charms with a balanced mix of caramel, fruit, and peppery spice flavours, leading to a finish that's both smooth and inviting. Its small batch status signifies careful selection and blending.
When researching online, its price ranged from R449 to R679, for example R449 at Makro or R675 at WhiskyShop.
7. Sazerac Straight Rye Bourbon Whiskey
Distilled in Kentucky, USA, by the Sazerac Company, Sazerac Rye plays a pivotal role in the iconic Sazerac cocktail, adding a layer of history to its appeal.
Its flavour profile is characterized by a bold spicy, peppery punch with sweet undertones of vanilla and honey, making it not just a bourbon but a journey into American whiskey heritage.
For Sazerac Rye, expect to pay between R449 and R569. We found it at Makro for R449 or Mothercity Liquor for R569.
7. Sazerac Straight Rye Bourbon Whiskey
Distilled in Kentucky, USA, by the Sazerac Company, Sazerac Rye plays a pivotal role in the iconic Sazerac cocktail, adding a layer of history to its appeal.
Its flavour profile is characterized by a bold spicy, peppery punch with sweet undertones of vanilla and honey, making it not just a bourbon but a journey into American whiskey heritage.
For Sazerac Rye, expect to pay between R449 and R569. We found it at Makro for R449 or Mothercity Liquor for R569.
7. Sazerac Straight Rye Bourbon Whiskey
Distilled in Kentucky, USA, by the Sazerac Company, Sazerac Rye plays a pivotal role in the iconic Sazerac cocktail, adding a layer of history to its appeal.
Its flavour profile is characterized by a bold spicy, peppery punch with sweet undertones of vanilla and honey, making it not just a bourbon but a journey into American whiskey heritage.
For Sazerac Rye, expect to pay between R449 and R569. We found it at Makro for R449 or Mothercity Liquor for R569.
8. Knob Creek Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Crafted at the Jim Beam distillery in Kentucky, USA, Knob Creek is a premium small-batch bourbon with a rich heritage.
This bourbon features a robust flavour profile of toasted nuts, grains, and sweet vanilla, with a long, smooth finish that reveals layers of depth. Its 9 years of aging contribute to its pronounced character.
Knob Creek sits in the R579 - R649 price range. We looking online we found it at Mothercity Liquor for R649 and Makro for R579.
8. Knob Creek Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Crafted at the Jim Beam distillery in Kentucky, USA, Knob Creek is a premium small-batch bourbon with a rich heritage.
This bourbon features a robust flavour profile of toasted nuts, grains, and sweet vanilla, with a long, smooth finish that reveals layers of depth. Its 9 years of aging contribute to its pronounced character.
Knob Creek sits in the R579 - R649 price range. We looking online we found it at Mothercity Liquor for R649 and Makro for R579.
8. Knob Creek Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Crafted at the Jim Beam distillery in Kentucky, USA, Knob Creek is a premium small-batch bourbon with a rich heritage.
This bourbon features a robust flavour profile of toasted nuts, grains, and sweet vanilla, with a long, smooth finish that reveals layers of depth. Its 9 years of aging contribute to its pronounced character.
Knob Creek sits in the R579 - R649 price range. We looking online we found it at Mothercity Liquor for R649 and Makro for R579.
9. Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon
Elijah Craig, distilled in Kentucky, USA, by Heaven Hill, sets the standard for small batch bourbon with its meticulous production process.
It delivers a complex flavour spectrum ranging from sweet spice and vanilla to toasted oak and caramel, underscored by a smoky undertone. Its balance and depth are exemplary of fine bourbon craftsmanship.
Expect to pay between R590 and R699 for Elijah Craig Small Batch. We found it online at Mothercity Liquor for R699 or Whisky Shop for R590.
9. Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon
Elijah Craig, distilled in Kentucky, USA, by Heaven Hill, sets the standard for small batch bourbon with its meticulous production process.
It delivers a complex flavour spectrum ranging from sweet spice and vanilla to toasted oak and caramel, underscored by a smoky undertone. Its balance and depth are exemplary of fine bourbon craftsmanship.
Expect to pay between R590 and R699 for Elijah Craig Small Batch. We found it online at Mothercity Liquor for R699 or Whisky Shop for R590.
9. Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon
Elijah Craig, distilled in Kentucky, USA, by Heaven Hill, sets the standard for small batch bourbon with its meticulous production process.
It delivers a complex flavour spectrum ranging from sweet spice and vanilla to toasted oak and caramel, underscored by a smoky undertone. Its balance and depth are exemplary of fine bourbon craftsmanship.
Expect to pay between R590 and R699 for Elijah Craig Small Batch. We found it online at Mothercity Liquor for R699 or Whisky Shop for R590.
10. Makers 46 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Produced in Loretto, Kentucky, by Maker's Mark, Maker's 46 enhances the brand's signature style with a twist.
It boasts a rich palate of caramel, vanilla, and spices, with a special emphasis on toasted French oak notes. The unique finishing process adds complexity and a silky finish.
We found that Maker's 46 was available for R599 to R699 online, for example it was R599 at Makro or R699 via WhiskyShop.
10. Makers 46 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Produced in Loretto, Kentucky, by Maker's Mark, Maker's 46 enhances the brand's signature style with a twist.
It boasts a rich palate of caramel, vanilla, and spices, with a special emphasis on toasted French oak notes. The unique finishing process adds complexity and a silky finish.
We found that Maker's 46 was available for R599 to R699 online, for example it was R599 at Makro or R699 via WhiskyShop.
10. Makers 46 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Produced in Loretto, Kentucky, by Maker's Mark, Maker's 46 enhances the brand's signature style with a twist.
It boasts a rich palate of caramel, vanilla, and spices, with a special emphasis on toasted French oak notes. The unique finishing process adds complexity and a silky finish.
We found that Maker's 46 was available for R599 to R699 online, for example it was R599 at Makro or R699 via WhiskyShop.
Final thoughts on best bourbons available in South Africa
When looking for bourbons in South Africa, its best to think about your own preferences and your budget.
If you are more familiar with whisky, you might prefer a more entry level bottle such as Maker's Mark or Buffalo Trace to test the waters, and from there it might come down to taste when picking between the two.
Despite their budget-friendly pricing, these two bourbons are really amazing. In our review of Maker's Mark Original, we have a more in-depth look at this bottle and its background.
If you're looking to branch out from more entry level bourbon, we might suggest Maker's 46 which has more intense flavour profile.
If you're new to bourbon, you can learn more about bourbon in our posts comparing Kentucky bourbon and Tennessee whiskey, and exploring small batch bourbon.
You can also join our community to find out more about whisky in South Africa and whiskey from around the world.
Final thoughts on best bourbons available in South Africa
When looking for bourbons in South Africa, its best to think about your own preferences and your budget.
If you are more familiar with whisky, you might prefer a more entry level bottle such as Maker's Mark or Buffalo Trace to test the waters, and from there it might come down to taste when picking between the two.
Despite their budget-friendly pricing, these two bourbons are really amazing. In our review of Maker's Mark Original, we have a more in-depth look at this bottle and its background.
If you're looking to branch out from more entry level bourbon, we might suggest Maker's 46 which has more intense flavour profile.
If you're new to bourbon, you can learn more about bourbon in our posts comparing Kentucky bourbon and Tennessee whiskey, and exploring small batch bourbon.
You can also join our community to find out more about whisky in South Africa and whiskey from around the world.
Final thoughts on best bourbons available in South Africa
When looking for bourbons in South Africa, its best to think about your own preferences and your budget.
If you are more familiar with whisky, you might prefer a more entry level bottle such as Maker's Mark or Buffalo Trace to test the waters, and from there it might come down to taste when picking between the two.
Despite their budget-friendly pricing, these two bourbons are really amazing. In our review of Maker's Mark Original, we have a more in-depth look at this bottle and its background.
If you're looking to branch out from more entry level bourbon, we might suggest Maker's 46 which has more intense flavour profile.
If you're new to bourbon, you can learn more about bourbon in our posts comparing Kentucky bourbon and Tennessee whiskey, and exploring small batch bourbon.
You can also join our community to find out more about whisky in South Africa and whiskey from around the world.
Frequently asked questions about bourbon & bourbon in South Africa
What is bourbon whiskey?
Bourbon whiskey is a distinctive American spirit known for its rich, smooth flavours. By law, it must be produced in the U.S., made from a grain mix of at least 51% corn, and aged in new charred oak barrels. This unique combination of requirements ensures bourbon's unmistakable vanilla, oak, and caramel notes.
Beyond these basics, bourbon's character varies from one distillery to another, influenced by factors like ageing duration, distillation process, and regional characteristics.
What is bourbon whiskey?
Bourbon whiskey is a distinctive American spirit known for its rich, smooth flavours. By law, it must be produced in the U.S., made from a grain mix of at least 51% corn, and aged in new charred oak barrels. This unique combination of requirements ensures bourbon's unmistakable vanilla, oak, and caramel notes.
Beyond these basics, bourbon's character varies from one distillery to another, influenced by factors like ageing duration, distillation process, and regional characteristics.
What is bourbon whiskey?
Bourbon whiskey is a distinctive American spirit known for its rich, smooth flavours. By law, it must be produced in the U.S., made from a grain mix of at least 51% corn, and aged in new charred oak barrels. This unique combination of requirements ensures bourbon's unmistakable vanilla, oak, and caramel notes.
Beyond these basics, bourbon's character varies from one distillery to another, influenced by factors like ageing duration, distillation process, and regional characteristics.
Where can I buy bourbon online in South Africa?
In South Africa, there are several options for purchasing bourbon online.
During our research for this post, we found that Makro in particular had a very wide selection of bourbon and was typically cheaper than many other sources online.
In addition, we found that Mothercity Liqour's selection was also quite extensive and this source was a good option for when Makro or other platforms were out of stock in particular.
We will explore all options for buying bourbon in South Africa in an upcoming post, so stay tuned by joining our community to receive this update.
Where can I buy bourbon online in South Africa?
In South Africa, there are several options for purchasing bourbon online.
During our research for this post, we found that Makro in particular had a very wide selection of bourbon and was typically cheaper than many other sources online.
In addition, we found that Mothercity Liqour's selection was also quite extensive and this source was a good option for when Makro or other platforms were out of stock in particular.
We will explore all options for buying bourbon in South Africa in an upcoming post, so stay tuned by joining our community to receive this update.
Where can I buy bourbon online in South Africa?
In South Africa, there are several options for purchasing bourbon online.
During our research for this post, we found that Makro in particular had a very wide selection of bourbon and was typically cheaper than many other sources online.
In addition, we found that Mothercity Liqour's selection was also quite extensive and this source was a good option for when Makro or other platforms were out of stock in particular.
We will explore all options for buying bourbon in South Africa in an upcoming post, so stay tuned by joining our community to receive this update.
What are the bourbon whiskey regions in American Whiskey?
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What are the bourbon whiskey regions in American Whiskey?
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What are the bourbon whiskey regions in American Whiskey?
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What bourbon is available in South Africa?
In South Africa you can find a variety of bourbon expressions at different price points. Expressions range from wheated and high-rye to small batch and single barrel offerings.
Popular choices include Kentucky bourbons such as Maker's Mark (both the Original and Maker's 46), Buffalo Trace, and Evan Williams, each offering a unique heritage and flavour profile. Other popular choices include Blanton's Original Single Barrel, Bulleit Bourbon, and 1792 Small Batch Bourbon.
What bourbon is available in South Africa?
In South Africa you can find a variety of bourbon expressions at different price points. Expressions range from wheated and high-rye to small batch and single barrel offerings.
Popular choices include Kentucky bourbons such as Maker's Mark (both the Original and Maker's 46), Buffalo Trace, and Evan Williams, each offering a unique heritage and flavour profile. Other popular choices include Blanton's Original Single Barrel, Bulleit Bourbon, and 1792 Small Batch Bourbon.
What bourbon is available in South Africa?
In South Africa you can find a variety of bourbon expressions at different price points. Expressions range from wheated and high-rye to small batch and single barrel offerings.
Popular choices include Kentucky bourbons such as Maker's Mark (both the Original and Maker's 46), Buffalo Trace, and Evan Williams, each offering a unique heritage and flavour profile. Other popular choices include Blanton's Original Single Barrel, Bulleit Bourbon, and 1792 Small Batch Bourbon.
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Become a member of our whiskey community for free to get access to an exclusive range of curated content - from reviews of top drams, to unique whiskey tasting experiences, and insights into the latest industry trends—our mailing list content is a valuable source for whiskey enthusiasts looking to stay in tune with the world of whiskey.
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Copyright © 2024 Craft Cask
Join the craft cask whiskey community!
Become a member of our whiskey community for free to get access to an exclusive range of curated content - from reviews of top drams, to unique whiskey tasting experiences, and insights into the latest industry trends—our mailing list content is a valuable source for whiskey enthusiasts looking to stay in tune with the world of whiskey.
Don't miss out, join our community today.
Copyright © 2024 Craft Cask
Join the craft cask whiskey community!
Become a member of our whiskey community for free to get access to an exclusive range of curated content - from reviews of top drams, to unique whiskey tasting experiences, and insights into the latest industry trends—our mailing list content is a valuable source for whiskey enthusiasts looking to stay in tune with the world of whiskey.
Don't miss out, join our community today.
Copyright © 2024 Craft Cask