1 | Spirits | Bourbon, $10 to $20, 750 ml

The classic Jim Beam Bourbon in a shatterproof plastic bottle.

"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.

"Copper color. Deep aromas of pecan toffee, dried peach and orange, and sweet baking spices follow through on a supple entry to a dry-yet-fruity medium-full body with layers of spiced nuts and caramel fudge. Finishes with a long, smooth vanilla and mineral accented fade. A great sipper or mixer with fantastic flavor and balance." Gold Medal.

"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."

"The early fragrance emits subtle, almost floral/fruity scents of banana, matted rose petals, field grasses and marzipan; aeration releases deeper aromas, especially oaky vanillin, sautéed butter, deep-fried pork rind and buttered sweet corn. Palate entry is semisweet, oaky and honeyed; at midpalate, toffee and light caramel tastes merge with the gentle bite of spirit. Finishes lean, off-dry and regal. The best whiskey value in the world, bar none. Best Buy." 96-100 pts.

"The somewhat sloppy bouquet features undirected caramel corn and marshmallow scents with moderately complex aromas of nut paste, pastry dough, yeast and dry breakfast cereal. Entry improves matters as appetizing tastes of bacon fat and corn meal dominate; the midpalate improves even further as the oak balances the grain tastes. Ends with a dash of fire." 85-89 pts.