Updated July 2026.
“Affordable sipping whiskey” is store English, not a TTB class. Straight whiskey is aged at least two years and bottled at ≥80 proof. A 1.5-ounce 40% pour is one NIAAA drink; 43% is 1.08; 45% is 1.13. Jim Beam White is 80 proof. Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 is 80. Evan Williams Black commonly prints 86, read the neck. This is not a 15-bottle ranking.
Related: whiskey under $30, cheap bourbon, should whiskey be chilled.
Class and drink math
| Reading tool | What it is |
|---|---|
| Straight | ≥2 years, ≥80 proof |
| Bourbon | ≥51% corn, new charred oak |
| 80 proof pour | 1.00 drink / 1.5 oz |
| 86 / 90 proof | 1.08 / 1.13 drinks |
| Sticker | That day, not MSRP |
A 750 mL 40% bottle is about 17 drinks. Four 80-proof pours are four drinks. NIAAA binge pattern is a health line, not a target. Pour math: whiskey drinks.
Sources
- TTB 27 CFR 5.143 (bourbon / straight). 5.74 age statements.
- Beam 80 and JD 80 from prior official/US sheets. EW Black 86 common labeling.
- NIAAA December 2025.