10 Budget Scotch Whiskies Under $50 in the US

If you have spent any time on my channel, you’ll know I’ve built a bit of a reputation as the cheapest guy reviewing whiskies, which I proudly wear as a badge of honour.

Whisky should be for everyone. Not just for people with deep pockets or collectors chasing hype bottles. However I kept seeing in the comments that the bargains I find here do not always translate across the pond. Prices in the US can be wildly different. Sometimes double if not more.

So I set myself a challenge. Find 10 Scotch whiskies you can actually buy in the United States for $50 or less. It certainly was a lot harder than I expected!

If you want the full breakdown make sure you check out the full video. But here is a taste of what made the list.

Blended Scotch Bargains That Punch Above Their Price

Naked Malt is one of the best value sherry bombs out there. Matured in first fill Oloroso casks, it delivers sweet notes like raisins, toffee, and stewed fruits. At around $30, it is an easy win. You also have Maclean’s Nose, a favourite among whisky fans. With a high malt content and a coastal edge, you get a balance of chocolate, citrus, and a hint of smoke. At roughly $35, it feels far more premium than it should. Also if you are a fan of fruit driven whisky, Compass Box Orchard House lives up to its name. Think apples, pears, and a touch of waxy texture. It is bright, fun, and dangerously easy to drink.

Affordable Single Malts Worth Your Shelf Space

Glenfiddich 12 is often overlooked by us whisky nerds, but there is a reason it sells by the caseload worldwide. It is light, fresh, and full of green apple notes. A great entry point and still solid for the price. Loch Lomond 12 steps things up with higher strength and a more natural presentation again with orchard fruits with a slightly funky edge. Then there is Glencadam 10, which I have praised constantly since trying it. It is clean, creamy, and spirit driven with soft vanilla from bourbon casks. Of course there is Arran 10, a fan favourite for a reason. Natural presentation, great balance, and packed with orchard fruit, malt, and a touch of coastal character.

Islay Picks From Creamy to Smoky

Of course no Scotch whisky list would be complete without Islay. Bunnahabhain Stiuireadair offers a more gentle side of the island. Rich sherry influence with salted caramel and a slight coastal touch. Bruichladdie Classic Laddie is another standout. Bright, floral, and full of character, showing that unpeated Islay whisky can still be complex and exciting. Of course for peat lovers, Ardbeg Wee Beastie brings the smoke. It is young, bold, and packed with flavours like charred meat, treacle, and grilled fruit. A proper punchy dram at around $50.

Hopefully this list proves you do not need to spend big money to drink good Scotch. While prices will always vary depending on where you live, this gives you a solid starting point if you are buying in the US.