In my series of articles on frugal hobbies, I break down an individual hobby for people who want to have fun without breaking the bank. The overview will include the details of the hobby itself, how to go into it with a frugal mindset, and the best ways to make use of your money. Not all of the hobbies covered are cheap or easy to get into, but I find ways to help you save money while still being able to partake in your favorite pastimes.
Whiskey
I like whiskey. I mean, really like whiskey. What’s not to love about it? It tastes great, there are tons of great bottles out there, and you can still find great value in the modern marketplace. Moderation, as with everything, is still key. The easiest way to save money on whiskey is to just not overdo it. Enjoy it, but don’t take it to unhealthy levels. Now, if you’ve got that little moderation part down, there are still tons of things to cover to make this hobby more affordable.
What Are The Categories Of Whiskey?
First up, I just want to clarify what I mean by whiskey. Whiskey and whisky are different. Since they’re different – and each covers an overwhelming amount of products – I’ll just focus on whiskey in this article. That includes bourbon, rye, and good ol’ Irish!
The Key To Sustaining A Hobby With Constantly Increasing Prices
One of the biggest hurdles in this hobby is that prices are always increasing. Yes, inflation rears its head in most markets and niches, but I’ve found that it’s especially nasty with liquor. On a good year, there may be only small increases in pricing. In a bad year, you could see massive increases of 20-50% or more! Unfortunately, there is nothing you can really do about it. Just focus on which bottles and brands are still a good value for the price. It will change, and brands you once loved may be outrageous now – laughably so.
Focusing On Value Instead Of Being Cheap
I’m not saying to be cheap. Don’t skimp on the things you love. However, it pays to be value-minded. Find what you like, stick to it, but make sure you pay attention to the whiskey in your selection that is a true value for what it is. For example, if a certain whiskey costs $45 and is the best you can find for $50 or less, then that whiskey has a great value – whether you consider it “cheap” or not.
Let’s Get The Accessories Out Of The Way
As with any luxury item, there are bound to be tons of accessories out there for you. Let’s go over the primary ones people use for whiskey.
Glassware
There are a multitude of options for glassware – in fact, there may be too many. The main one is the old fashioned glass. This is probably the standard glass you think about when you imagine someone drinking whiskey. They can be priced high, but you can also get them incredibly cheap. This will probably be your mainstay glass, an easy go-to, and you should be able to find them on sale or clearance with relative ease. By a large pack, it will save you money.
If you fancy yourself a connoisseur, then you may prefer a Glencairn glass to an old fashioned glass. I mean, I get it. Glencairn glasses rock! They make nosing and tasting the whiskey so much better. The sad reality is that they’re expensive though. When you buy them as singles, they can be prohibitively overpriced. In my opinion, the best deals are usually found when you buy them in packs of 2 or 4. Of course, if you have no interest in this glass and the expense – just skip it.
Ice Molds
Ice molds and stones, in my humble opinion, are unnecessary. However, if you do like them, they are honestly pretty affordable. If you’re scared of taking the plunge, you could always include them in a wish list and hope someone gives you one as a gift.
Water – Yes, Seriously
This is one area where people go overboard all the time with whiskey. I’m sorry, but buying a $20 bottle of water just because it comes from the same area as the distiller is a bit much. For the times where you need a splash of water, keep it simple.
Books
Whiskey books can be nifty, but they’re more for coffee table décor. If you want to learn more about whiskey, the internet offers a cheaper solution with a much grander wealth of information. Well, for the most part. If you’re reading about common brands and cocktails, just browse the web. If you’re looking for specialized information, then a book may be more suitable, but hard to find.
Bourbon
I’m not here to go into the details of bourbon or give detailed reviews. Other people have already covered what makes bourbon a bourbon, Irish an Irish, or rye a rye. With that said, I will cover some common bourbons that people love – which also provide a good value.
Four Roses
I’m sure you’ve heard of Four Roses before. They’re becoming a popular brand, and for good reason. They have many cheap and mid-tier options that offer excellent value given the pricing. The higher tier stuff is debatable, it just depends on if you like their style. If you want some good bourbon, perhaps with a hint of fruit and spice, give them a shot.
Buffalo Trace
There is no way for me to talk about bourbon without at least mentioning Buffalo Trace. It’s not the best bourbon by any means, but it is the quintessential bourbon. It’s sweet, delicious, and usually perfect for the price. Unfortunately, you may not be able to find this year round everywhere – so stock up when you get the chance.
Old Barton’s
I’m not sure what the consensus is on Old Barton’s, but it has to be underrated. I’ve barely heard anyone talk about it, and they probably avoid it because of the price. At $10-15 this can be a scary purchase, and many assume it is bottom shelf. The fact of the matter is that Old Barton’s may be the best value I’ve gotten on any bourbon – ever. It’s cheap, yes, and there are cons with that. It has the sweet quintessential bourbon profile, like Buffalo Trace, with a few rough edges. Those rough edges are more than made up with the 50% reduction (if not more) in the price compared to Buffalo Trace, so I deem this one a win.
Wild Turkey
Wild Turkey is one of the most common “budget” bourbon picks out there. It’s not my cup of tea, but I’d still say it may be worth a shot. If nothing else, it could be a great mixer!
Old Grand-Dad
This is another brand that offers some great cheaper whiskies that crowds love. Unfortunately, where I live, I’ve never been able to obtain a bottle. It is what it is, but considering the crowd appeal, I felt that I had to mention it.
Old Forester
This is a frequent favorite. Most people love Old Forester. Those who don’t love it at least like it. They have some cheap stuff and some not-so-cheap stuff. Try out their cheaper options. If you like that, then the higher priced items may be perfect for you!
Rye
I admittedly have less experience with rye, but for the sake of my audience I did some intensive research! Let’s dive into some of the best picks.
Rittenhouse
This is a phenomenal rye, especially for the price. It competes with most of the top tier rye whiskies, if only a notch below. However, it’s a quarter of the price! This is a great bottle to keep in your collection or to get your feet wet while trying out rye.
Old Overhold
This is similar to Rittenhouse Rye in a lot of ways. It’s a cheaper whiskey, but it’s still quality. There are a couple options, one being the same price as Rittenhouse and the other being slightly cheaper. Overall, I’d say it’s a bit of a lighter option to Rittenhouse. If that is too much for you, try some of Old Overhold.
Dickel
Another great budget pick for rye. If you see it, don’t be afraid to give it a whirl – it’s a top pick for many.
Angel’s Envy
Angel’s Envy Rye is a coveted bottle, which many will pay an arm and a leg for. It’s good. Very good. Unfortunately, it isn’t necessarily worth the price. It’s worth a try, as it’s a rewarding experience, but it isn’t necessarily a go-to bottle. Rittenhouse is very similar, perhaps less sweet, and it’s a fourth of the price. Angel’s Envy has my stamp of approval, but it comes with severely diminishing returns.
An Unfortunate Selection
Rye seems to be less popular than its bourbon counterparts, but there is always good rye to be found. You can likely find some great rye in your area, but when it’s time to branch out you may have issues. Alas, this is one of the cons of certain whiskey niches! For those with more experience with rye, let us know in the comments what the great bottles are (the ones that can be found).
Irish
Last, but not least, is Irish whiskey. It’s a classic, a staple of many cocktails, and absolutely fantastic neat. Let’s go over some of your options.
Jameson
Jameson is the typical Irish whiskey that everyone thinks of. It is good, but there are better options out there, even for the price. However, Jameson can be found anywhere. So, when in doubt, Jameson is a safe pick. It’s quality, it won’t break the bank, and the availability can’t be denied.
Bushmills
Bushmills has some great whiskey, especially for the price. Bushmill seems to punch just above its weight class in most things. They’re a bit different from Jameson, so it’s worth a try to branch out. You may even find that you love it. On the cheaper side, when you’re first trying them, go for something like their Black Bush whiskey.
Slane
Slane offers a great value. It’s a bit more expensive than Jameson, but it completely outstrips it. It’s more refined, has layers, and seems to be an improvement on everything Jameson is. If you’re willing to pay a few more bucks, it’s well worth it.
Sexton
This is an interesting one. It’s priced above Jameson, usually right at or above Slane. People tend to love it or hate it. It’s a bit of a unique Irish whiskey, so I get why it can be a point of contention. It’s probably worth a try, if only to figure out which camp you’re a part of. After all, if you fall into the group that loves it, then this is a perfect go-to bottle.
Writers’ Tears
This is good, sweet, delicious Irish whiskey. When I first had it, it was the same price as Jameson. Unfortunately, those days are gone and it’s usually $10 more. At that price, I’d say it’s probably at the just right valuation. You won’t feel cheated by the price, but it’s not a steal either. Regardless, it’s a solid whiskey.
Teeling
Teeling is a common brand people enjoy as they get into the higher end Irish whiskies. In my opinion it’s good, but hard to recommend with its pricing. Your opinion (and finances) may differ, but once I get into this price range, I prefer to spend a little bit more and get the truly outstanding bottles.
Green spot
Green Spot is good. Very good. In fact, the whole Spot line is fantastic Irish whiskey, Green Spot is just the entry point. If you want good Irish whiskey elevated, then start here. It’s a bit expensive, but it is worth the price if your budget can afford it.
Redbreast
Redbreast is a bit of a buzzword in Irish whiskey. In fact, people are pretty divided between the Spot line and Redbreast, but I think the average consumer enjoys Redbreast more. I get it. Redbreast is another phenomenal Irish whiskey and is worth a try. Be wary though. Because of it’s increasing popularity, its prices have gone up as well. Usually, for the price of a bottle of Redbreast, there are better whiskies out there.
Costco Whiskey
Last, but not least, is Costco whiskey. I know a lot of people opt to try Costco whiskey when they’re on a budget. If you don’t know what I’m talking about, the bottle probably has the Kirkland logo on it.
Costco whiskey – as well as its other liquor and wine – usually isn’t bad. In fact, it can be quite surprising. However, it’s rarely good, and barely ever great. If you buy Costco whiskey, expect it to be at the “just right” point for its price. That’s not a bad thing. In fact, that means you can potentially try some good whiskey for a competitive price. The thing that will make it a steal is when it goes on sale. Costco whiskey doesn’t need to be avoided necessarily – just watch out for the deals!
Conclusion
Hopefully this set you up on the right track to enjoy your whiskey without breaking the bank. If you have extra tips or recommendations, be sure to let us know what they are. Think I missed something or made a mistake? Let me know!
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