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100 Proof and Lower, Under $100: 6 Whiskies for Summer Sipping
Barbecue, citrus, red berries, peach, and more seasonal flavors abound in these whiskies
July 21, 2025 –––––– Whisky Advocate
During summertime, a whisky with sky-high proof doesn’t always fit the bill. But there are plenty of expressions with lower proofs (and price tags) that deliver big flavor and refreshing results. We’ve rounded up a selection of six whiskies to fit the season, all priced under $100 and bottled at or below 50% ABV.
Andalusia Triple Distilled American Single Malt, 50%, $55
Triple distillation is usually for the Irish whiskey set, but this Texas distiller pays homage to the Emerald Isle, begetting a lighter-profile American single malt. A barbecue lover’s dream, redolent with hints of sweet barbecue sauce and char, with plenty of lemon meringue and stone fruit to keep things complex.
Glendronach Ode to the Embers Sherry & Smoke Highland Single Malt Scotch, 48.4%, $91
Part of Glendronach’s The Master’s Anthology, this peated single malt is aged in both oloroso and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks. A delightful array of sweetness, spice, mesquite, and herbal flavors makes for a symphony in each sip.
New Riff Bottled in Bond Balboa Kentucky Straight Rye, 50%, $55
Depth, texture, and flavor all aligned in this bottled in bond rye from New Riff, which is made from an heirloom grain varietal. Rye spice is supported by caramel, candy corn, red berries, orange peel, and coffee ice cream.
Old Fitzgerald 7 year old Bottled in Bond Bourbon (2025 Release; Spring 2018 Vintage), 50%, $60
The newest release from Old Fitzgerald is a core expression that should be far easier to find than its Decanter Series counterparts. Plenty of fruit—red berries, peach cobbler, banana split—meld with baking spice, caramel, maple syrup, vanilla, and bubble gum.
Old Pulteney 12 year old Highland Single Malt Scotch, 40%, $55
A coastal delight that’s part of Old Pulteney’s core range, this Highland single malt brings fruit, spice, and a hint of salt to the table.
Templeton Straight Rye, 45%, $30
This is the Iowa brand’s new flagship rye, made from a (sourced) 95% rye and 5% malted barley mashbill. A viscous mouthfeel is buoyed by orange peel, licorice, candied nuts, coffee bean, and strawberry jam.
