From the Top 5 Bourbons $25-$50 list...

Kicking off the top 5 rankings is Old Grand Dad (OGD) 114.  This is an excellent pour produced by Jim Beam and is widely known by whiskey enthusiasts as a top-tier bottle that doesn't get a lot of hype.  An interesting note about the Old Grand Dad brand is that it was created by Raymond B. Hayden and named for his Grandfather, Meredith Basil Hayden Sr., the same person the Basil Hayden brand is named for.  Other bottlings of OGD include an 80-proof and 100-proof bottled-in-bond which is also considered a fantastic budget bottle.  OGD uses a high-rye mashbill and is generally considered a cinnamon-forward profile.  There have been rumors in the past about Beam discontinuing this product but it has ultimately survived those, thankfully!

Stats: NAS (rumored 4-6 yrs); 63% Corn, 27% Rye, 4% Malted Barley; 114 proof; $30

Verdict: I just recently learned that this is technically bottled at barrel-proof due to Beam's process of producing this whiskey which is different from the other OGD and Basil Hayden products.  That being said, it definitely drinks like a barrel-proof bourbon but not overbearing.  It may be a little much for a newbie but an experienced whiskey drinker could handle this on their palate easily and possibly perfect for someone looking to get into higher-proof or barrel-proof bottles.  As stated earlier, it's definitely baking spice-forward, particularly cinnamon.  But it is well-balanced with earthy notes of oak, nuts, and grassy flavors.  There are light hints of sweetness but they don't play much of a role.  If you prefer sweeter profiles, this probably isn't for you but if you like a challenge and bold, earthy, spicy flavors you are going to fall in love with this!  And for $30, it's the cheapest bottle on this list and a steal at that price!  Grab this one up and share it with your friends!  This will be your new secret bourbon weapon to impress your friends!