1 | Spirits | Kentucky, $10 to $20

"The nosing passes find distant scents of honey, baked bread, and corn meal. The palate entry is pleasingly balanced and not the least cloying; at midpalate the flavor profile features integrated tastes of honey, spice and lemon zest. Finishes clean, balanced and very enjoyable. The citrus element nicely counters the honey and the bourbon." 85-89 pts.

"A lovely, sophisticated bourbon bouquet comprising fruity, cornmeal aromas which are followed by a red fruit scent, all underpinned by an oaky vanilla quality. Entry is reserved, gently sweet and toffee-like; the midpalate features succulent tastes of light caramel, honeywheat bread, caramel corn and toasted almond. Concludes fruity and corny. The best value American whiskey in the marketplace." Best Buy. 85-89 pts.

"Pale amber color. Caramelized nut, mashed banana, corn bread and sweet brown spice aromas are attractive and follow through on a soft, supple entry to a dryish medium body with peppery spice and dried cherry notes. Finishes with a long vanilla nut fade. A solid bourbon for mixing."

The classic Jim Beam Bourbon in a shatterproof plastic bottle.

Moderately light bodied. Reminiscent of toasted oats, hazelnuts, lemon. Delicate, soft texture. Brisk and slightly tart on the palate. Easy on the lighter citrus notes as more seasoned grainy and nutty elements dominate. Quite pungent in the finish.

"Pale amber color. Honeyed grain and praline aromas. A brisk, supple entry leads to a a dryish medium body of sweet honeyed nuts, dusty spices, and wet grain. Finishes with a honeyed nut toast and delicate vanilla fade. A pleasant straight forward bourbon."