When stocking up for a party or event, it‘s always convenient when you can get everything you need in one stop. Although best known for groceries and household essentials, in certain states, Walmart also carries a surprisingly wide selection of wine and spirits, including many excellent whiskeys. As a whiskey enthusiast and frequent Walmart shopper myself, I‘ve taken the time to scope out the best bottles to grab on your next superstore run.
But first, what makes a great whiskey? The answer involves a number of factors. Aging is a big one – most quality whiskeys spend several years maturing in oak barrels, which mellows the spirit and imparts notes of vanilla, caramel, spice, and wood. The type of grain used is also important, whether it‘s corn, rye, wheat, barley, or a blend. This grain bill forms the backbone of the whiskey‘s flavor.
The distillation process itself also plays a key role. Some whiskeys, like most Scotches, are distilled twice, which creates a smoother spirit and concentrates the flavors. Others, like most bourbons, are only distilled once. Where the whiskey is made, the water used, and other elements also impact the final product.
With those whiskey basics in mind, here are my top 10 picks for the best bottles you can find at Walmart, starting with the most affordable options and going up in price from there:
1. Evan Williams Black Label
At under $15 for a 750ml bottle, Evan Williams Black Label is one of the best budget bourbons out there. Aged for four years, it offers notes of vanilla, caramel, and a hint of cinnamon spice. The flavor is straightforward but satisfying, with a smooth texture that belies its low price. Enjoy it on the rocks or mixed in a classic cocktail like an Old Fashioned.
2. Old Overholt Straight Rye Whiskey
Spicy and bold, Old Overholt has been a bartender favorite since 1810. This is a great intro rye whiskey, with a high-rye mash bill that gives it a peppery kick balanced by notes of butterscotch, oak, and dried fruit. Priced around $17, it works well in Manhattans, Sazeracs, and other rye-forward cocktails.
3. Larceny Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon
A step up in price at about $25, Larceny is a very solid wheated bourbon from Heaven Hill, one of Kentucky‘s top distilleries. Aged 6-12 years, it has a soft, smooth profile with hints of honey, buttered bread, toffee, and ripe pears. This is a great choice to sip neat or on ice.
4. Benchmark Old No. 8 Kentucky Straight Bourbon
From the legendary Buffalo Trace distillery, Benchmark is a really impressive bourbon for about $10 a bottle. Expect flavors of corn, caramel apples, vanilla, and baking spices. While it may lack some complexity found in pricer bourbons, Benchmark drinks easy and makes a great affordable mixer.
5. Wild Turkey 101 Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Bold and spicy, Wild Turkey 101 delivers a lot of flavor for around $20 a bottle. At 101 proof (50.5% alcohol), it packs a punch, with a rich mouthfeel and notes of vanilla, caramel, cinnamon, pepper, and toasted oak. Try it in a Boulevardier or on the rocks.
6. Johnnie Walker Black Label
A classic blended Scotch, Johnnie Walker Black is aged at least 12 years and features whiskies from all over Scotland. It‘s very well-balanced, with flavors of toffee, dark fruits like figs and raisins, creamy vanilla, and a touch of smoke. Expect to pay around $30 for a 750ml bottle. Enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or in a Penicillin cocktail.
7. Buchanan‘s 12-Year Special Reserve Blended Scotch
Another excellent blended Scotch option, Buchanan‘s 12-year boasts a smooth, refined flavor with notes of citrus, honey, chocolate, and a whiff of smoke. Founded in 1884, the Buchanan‘s brand has a storied history and is popular in Latin American markets. A 750ml bottle goes for around $29.
8. Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon
My top mid-range bourbon pick from Walmart is Woodford Reserve, which will run you about $35. Triple-distilled and aged for at least six years, it has a complex nose and palate, with notes of dried fruits, cocoa, vanilla, cinnamon, toffee, and toasted oak. The texture is round and creamy. Savor this one in a Mint Julep or on its own.
9. Knob Creek 9-Year Small Batch Bourbon
From Jim Beam‘s acclaimed small batch collection, Knob Creek 9-Year is big, rich, and chewy, with intense flavors of charred oak, maple, burnt orange, and spice. Bottled at 100 proof, it‘s a bourbon lover‘s bourbon and a great value at around $35. I like it best with a big ice cube or a splash of water.
10. The Glenlivet 12-Year Single Malt Scotch
My final and priciest pick at around $50 is The Glenlivet 12-Year, a classic Speyside single malt that‘s great for sipping. Aged in both American oak and European oak casks, it offers enticing aromas of pineapple, pear, and vanilla, with flavors of honey, malt, almonds, and delicate florals. The smooth, elegant texture makes it a pleasure to drink neat.
When shopping for whiskey at Walmart, keep in mind that prices and selection can vary by location. It‘s always a good idea to check the store‘s website or app to see what‘s in stock before making a trip. Many Walmarts keep the liquor in a separate section from the main store area, so you may need to look around a bit or ask an associate for help.
Don‘t be afraid to try a brand you‘ve never heard of before, especially in the under $20 range. There are a lot of great budget whiskey options if you know what to look for. And while whiskey snobs may turn up their noses at a bottle from Walmart, I‘m a firm believer that good whiskey can be found anywhere. It‘s all about knowing your preferences and being willing to explore.
Whether you prefer a spicy rye, a sweet bourbon, or a refined Scotch, I hope these recommendations have given you some solid whiskey options to seek out on your next Walmart run. From budget-friendly daily drinkers to special occasion splurges, there‘s a bottle for every taste and budget. Cheers!
