In 2017, Kentucky’s bourbon production reached 1.7 million barrels, the highest it’s been since 1972. There are currently more bourbon barrels residing in Kentucky than there are human inhabitants.

Of course, even though 95 percent of America’s bourbon production takes place in Kentucky, the oak-aged, distilled-corn spirit can legally be produced anywhere in America. Small-batch and single-barrel productions are surging state- and nationwide.

For those less familiar with the style, however, choosing which bourbon to buy can be confusing. We surveyed the landscape to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Whether you’re taking your first steps into Kentucky bourbon, or you’re a brown spirit aficionado who wants to try something new, we’ve compiled this guide. Here are the best bourbons for under $50. To see the full list for the best bourbons at other price points, including those under $25, click here.

MAKER'S MARK

Maker’s Mark stands out with its iconic, wax-coated bottle. Inside, things are a little more straightforward. The bourbon is caramel- and vanilla-heavy, with subtle hints of orchard fruits. The finish is long and dry with honeyed corn notes, and additional caramel and oak. Average Price: $29.

ELIJAH CRAIG SMALL BATCH

Some credit Elijah Craig as the first person to mature bourbon in charred oak barrels, calling him “The Father of Bourbon” whiskey. In a nod to the late Baptist minister, this small-batch bourbon receives a minimum of 12 years aging, giving it a spicy, fruity, and nutty complexity. Average Price: $30.

WOODFORD RESERVE DISTILLER’S SELECT KENTUCKY STRAIGHT

Woodford began producing its first bourbons back in 1882. This well-balanced, small-batch iteration has dried fruits and tobacco spice on the nose, followed by a silky smooth caramel palate. A refined sipping bourbon, enjoy this neat or on ice. Average Price: $35.

I.W. HARPER STRAIGHT BOURBON WHISKEY

I.W. Harper was one of just 10 distilleries granted permission to make medicinal bourbon during Prohibition. Despite surviving that difficult period, the distillery fell out of popularity in the ‘90s and ceased operations for two decades. It’s back now, and we’re thankful because this bottle is one of our favorite sweet, corn-rich bourbons. It’s full of buttery, cookie dough notes, with shortbread, nutmeg, and crisp orchard fruit. The oaky finish is well balanced and lasting. Average Price: $35.

HENRY MCKENNA SINGLE BARREL 10-YEAR-OLD

Henry McKenna’s 10-year-old Single Barrel whiskey is the longest-aged bottled-in-bond bourbon. The extended period in oak adds warm, spiced notes and a smoky, leathery character. This is perfect for drinkers who enjoy bold baking spices like cinnamon, cloves, anise, and allspice. Average Price: $37.

KNOB CREEK

Knob Creek takes its name from the small water source that allegedly ran through President Abraham Lincoln’s family farm. With notes of toasted cashew nuts, hay, and used oak, Knob Creek has plenty for the experienced palate to appreciate, but it’s balanced and smooth enough for even the newest bourbon drinker to enjoy. Average Price: $37.

BRECKENRIDGE BLEND OF STRAIGHT BOURBON

This Colorado company is home to the world’s highest-altitude distillery. Not all of the bourbon that goes into this bottling is distilled at altitude, though; Breckenridge also sources whiskey for this blend from Kentucky, Tennessee, and Indiana distilleries. The result is a toasty, nutty bourbon with pronounced banana and sesame notes. Average Price: $45.

FOUR ROSES SINGLE BARREL

Made from a rye-heavy mash bill (35 percent), Four Roses Single Barrel is spicy and has notes of cocoa and nutmeg. As its name suggests, every one of the 750 milliliters that make up each bottle is sourced from a single barrel, adding history and a unique flavor profile. Average Price: $46.

KOVAL SINGLE BARREL BOURBON