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The Best Campfire Whiskeys For Under $40

Since we know A LOT of people have strong opinions about whiskey, we’re going to be up front and let you know what we considered when coming up with this list. 

  1. Sippability. When we’re camping, we need a whiskey that can be sipped straight or poured neat. No ice. No mixers. No water. Something that goes down smooth from a camp glass or straight out of the bottle and straight to our lips. 
  2. Price Point. We’re saving our nicest bottles for the house with a good glass, fancy ice, and craft made bitters. However, when we’re camping we need something that is affordable, can be bought at almost any location, and doesn’t break the bank when traveling. 
  3. Unpretentious. See numbers 1 and 2. When we’re camping we want to be relaxed enough to enjoy the moment. For us that’s a comfortable chair, a nice fire, and good conversation with friends and family. Anything that takes away from that is not something we’re interested in when camping.

These 3 things are what we used to make our list. It doesn’t make them right or make them wrong.

At the end of the day, drink what you like how, how you like, where you like. You don’t need some stuffy internet blog telling you what we drink is better than what you drink. These are just some of our favorites that we thought were worth sharing. Shoot us a message and let us know what you like. You never know, it may end up on a future list!

We recommend buying all of these options at a local store as they will be able to give you better, more contextual recommendations on their favorites. However, we have linked to the manufacturer’s website to give you a spot to read more about our recommendations.

Bulleit Rye Whiskey

This is about as close to a staple and everyday drinker as you can get for us. Bulleit Rye Whiskey is a celebrated and distinctive American spirit renowned for its rich history and bold flavor profile. Crafted by the Bulleit family, who have been perfecting their whiskey recipes for generations, this rye whiskey offers a unique blend of flavors that captivate the senses. It’s characterized by its high rye content, which imparts a spicy and robust character, complemented by notes of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of cherry. The smooth, yet assertive finish makes it a favorite among whiskey enthusiasts looking for a balanced and full-bodied experience. Whether enjoyed neat, in classic cocktails like the Manhattan, or sipped on the rocks, Bulleit Rye Whiskey continues to be a staple in the world of American whiskey, representing a testament to tradition and innovation in every sip.

DISTILLER INFO | PRICE $27

Four Roses Small Batch

Four Roses Small Batch Whiskey is a true testament to the artistry of bourbon craftsmanship. Known for its exceptional quality and distinct flavor profile, it is a carefully curated blend of four unique bourbon recipes, each crafted with precision and aged to perfection. This meticulous selection results in a whiskey that offers a harmonious balance of rich, caramel sweetness, and a robust, spicy character, creating a sensory journey that lingers with every sip. With its smooth, velvety texture and notes of ripe fruits and hints of toasted oak, Four Roses Small Batch Whiskey is a sophisticated and versatile spirit that can be savored neat or used to elevate classic bourbon cocktails. It embodies the essence of time-honored bourbon-making traditions, making it a cherished choice for connoisseurs and newcomers alike.
DISTILLER INFO | PRICE $35

Eagle Rare Bourbon Whiskey

Eagle Rare Bourbon is a revered and distinguished gem in the world of American whiskey. Produced by the Buffalo Trace Distillery, this Kentucky straight bourbon is celebrated for its exceptional quality and distinctive character. What sets Eagle Rare apart is its impressive age statement, typically aged for a minimum of ten years, allowing it to develop a remarkable depth of flavor and complexity. With its rich, deep amber hue and a nose that entices with notes of toffee, vanilla, and toasted oak, Eagle Rare promises a sensory journey like no other. Upon tasting, its palate delivers a symphony of flavors, including caramel, dark fruit, and a touch of spice, culminating in a long, satisfying finish. Whether enjoyed neat to appreciate its intricate nuances or used as the foundation for classic cocktails, Eagle Rare Bourbon exemplifies the artistry and dedication that goes into creating a truly exceptional bourbon whiskey.
DISTILLER INFO | PRICE $37

Redwood Empire Emerald Giant

Honestly any of the Redwood bottles are amazing but their Rye (you may have noticed a theme) is the best in our books. Redwood Empire Whiskey is a testament to the rugged beauty and natural splendor of Northern California. Crafted by the Graton Distilling Company, this bourbon whiskey is inspired by the towering redwood trees that grace the region’s landscape. It captures the essence of the outdoors, offering a smooth and harmonious blend of flavors that reflect the wilderness. With notes of honey, caramel, and ripe stone fruits, complemented by hints of spice and oak, Redwood Empire Whiskey delivers a balanced and approachable profile. It is a versatile spirit, equally enjoyable neat, on the rocks, or as a key ingredient in cocktails. Every sip of Redwood Empire Whiskey evokes a sense of adventure and pays homage to the majestic redwood forests, making it a unique and delightful addition to the world of American whiskey.

DISTILLER INFO | PRICE $36

Tin Cup American Whiskey

Tin Cup Whiskey embodies the spirit of the American frontier, offering a rugged and flavorful whiskey that pays homage to the adventurous heritage of the Rocky Mountains. Crafted in Colorado, this whiskey combines a high-rye bourbon with a dash of Colorado water, which is naturally filtered through the state’s mountain terrain. The result is a whiskey with a character as bold as the landscape it hails from, featuring notes of sweet corn, vanilla, and a peppery spice that lingers on the palate. Tin Cup Whiskey is aptly named after the iconic tin cups used by miners and explorers in the region, reflecting the pioneering spirit of those who sought their fortunes in the Rockies. Whether sipped neat, in cocktails, or enjoyed around a campfire, Tin Cup Whiskey captures the essence of the American West, offering a taste of adventure in every glass.
DISTILLER INFO | PRICE $26

High West Campfire

This is the most expensive bottle on our list but it’s a great one. High West Campfire Whiskey is a truly innovative and distinctive blend that pushes the boundaries of whiskey craftsmanship. Crafted by the High West Distillery in Utah, this unique spirit combines elements of bourbon, rye, and peated Scotch whisky, creating a delightful and unconventional flavor profile. Campfire Whiskey offers an intriguing and harmonious blend of sweet caramel, spicy rye, and a hint of smoky peat, reminiscent of a campfire in the rugged wilderness. It’s a whiskey that takes you on a journey through the American West and the Scottish Highlands, all in one sip. Whether enjoyed neat, in cocktails, or as a conversation starter among whiskey aficionados, High West Campfire Whiskey is a testament to the brand’s innovative spirit and commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional whiskey-making.

DISTILLER INFO | PRICE $65
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