Best bourbon?


I noticed there are threads for scotch and vodka so we need one for bourbon too.
What do you think is the best bourbon? I can't pick just one but I think that buffalo trace and Elijah Craig are both very good, especially at ~$30 for a fifth.

Mark
mhedges
Actually, it does not have to be from Kentucky to be called Bourbon. It cannot be called "Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky" if made elsewhere - and there are now many bourbons being distilled all over the United States including here in good 'ol New York State. In order to be labeled "bourbon" all a distiller need do is have a mash containing a minimum of 51% corn no matter the state of origin. Koval from Chicago makes a superb bourbon along with many other whiskies AND all organic. Excellent Kentucky Straights (minimum 2 years old) Rowan's Creek, Willet Pot Still Reserve, Noah's Mill, J. R. Ewing, Redemption & Redemption High Rye Bourbon, Prichard's Double Barrel....
The small batch Bourbon business is totally out of control right now - every single label is experiencing difficulty keeping up with consumer demand - including the more commercial brands like Makers - and don't even try mentioning Pappy Van Winkle! Pappy at auction costs more than some equipment does!
While I do have a vested interest in the labels I mentioned above the paragraph above the second, I do have a keen interest in the category overall. Fortunately in my position I get to taste/sample hundreds of whiskies during the course of the year, unfortunately I have to BUY audio equipment and then decide!! Woe is me.
I managed to find a bottle of 18-year Sazerac Rye...whew! Stunning. Wish i could find more!
Got a chance to A/B Eagles Rare 10 and Woodford Reserve last weekend. Woody was the clear winner, not even close....glad someone took my keys away from me - next Bourbon shootout will be Makers Mark or Bullett against Woody Reserve.
Blanton's single barrel, Russell's Reserve Single Barrel, and Russell's Reserve 10-Year are probably at the top of my list. Tried the 12-yr Van Winkle once at a restaurant in Louisville and it was superb. Can't find a bottle anywhere and not sure I could afford it if I did (to say nothing of the Pappy's ...anybody know where people get the Van Winkle stuff?).

I have an unopened Rowan's Creek I have yet to try but I remember it as being nice at a tasting once.

For inexpensive everyday bourbon I prefer Wild Turkey 101. And 1792 Ridgemont Reserve is $21 at my local chain store. As good a $21 bottle as I've had.