We Asked words: Published: illustration: Published: June 11, 2024 illustration: Sara Pinsonault Bourbon is the quintessential American spirit. The Kentucky whiskey can conjure up images of distillery tours, afternoon cocktails on the porch, or even just some eventful ragers — the last of which usually calls for more affordable bottles. It’s definitely possible to find bourbon that’s smooth, complex, and good enough to serve neat on a budget, and plenty of bourbon-makers are distilling spirits