14 Bourbons That Aren't Worth Your Money

Kentucky Gentleman

Kentucky Gentleman is a budget bourbon, often selling for less than $13.50 for a 1.75-liter bottle. Most buyers don’t expect world-class quality at this price, but many are still surprised at just how disappointing it is. Critics and whiskey writers have pointed out that it barely has any aroma. On the palate, this 80-proof bourbon tastes mostly of chemical sweetness. It feels watery and a bit harsh, lacking any complexity or balance.

The reason Kentucky Gentleman tastes so one-dimensional comes down to how it’s made. Technically, it’s not a true bourbon—it’s a blended whiskey, made up of 51% straight bourbon and 49% neutral grain spirits. This high percentage of neutral spirits adds little more than alcohol and dilutes the flavor and aroma of the bourbon, leaving behind a bland final product.

Compared to other straight bourbons at a similar price—like Very Old Barton 80 proof or Evan Williams Kentucky Straight Bourbon—Kentucky Gentleman’s weaknesses stand out even more. In short, it’s not worth buying, even at this low price.