Ten High, $7.99, 80 Proof, BSBB Rating: 3 Stars

After last week’s Old Crow I wasn’t too eager to try Ten High. It’s actually cheaper than Old Crow and I've never even heard of it (whereas with Old Crow at least I heard some bad things beforehand.) I twisted open the bottle and took a whiff…and I was pleased by what I found.

Ten High: It's worth the 8 bucks

 Not especially flavorful at first, but with a very pleasant aftertaste.

It’s hard to describe how happy I am that this bourbon isn't complete shit. I was terrified after last week’s entry that I found an economic limit, and that any bourbon under $10 would be as bad as the Crow. My first sip of Ten High gave me nothing to complain about besides it being a little watery (there’s definitely a trend here in the cheap bourbons so far.) This bourbon is a lot like the Ezra Brooks as it’s smooth and easy to get down with a decent bourbon flavor aftertaste. Both bourbons have very little burn to them so newer whiskey drinkers shouldn't mind them too much, and both taste pretty decent. The Ten High ends with a sweet nutty flavor that I’m starting to really crave; this could easily become a regular on my shelf.

I’m only drinking this delicious soldier neat, but I’m going to recommend people use it as a mixer as well. It has some bourbon flavor but it isn't overbearing, and the watery character of it should make it slide right into your coke and down your gullet faster than you can say “Will Gordon likes shitty whiskey.” So if you’re new to the game and looking for something to ease you into bourbon on a budget, this is a great way to try something that doesn't suck. It’s drinkable, it has the taste (aftertaste really) of decent bourbon, and it’s wet enough that even bourbon amateurs can sip it without gagging.

PROS

• Cheapest whiskey so far ($7.99 for a fifth in Philly)
• Minimal burn (could be a negative for more experienced bourbon enthusiasts)
• Sweet aftertaste that makes you want another sip

CONS

• Very light initial taste (watery)
• Nothing really special about it

AND?

            For the cost of a cheap bottle of wine or a single craft beer at the bar, you can get so much drunker.