Few things:
Bernheim Original is straight wheat Whiskey. It’s not a “wheated bourbon”.
Ancient age is the best/cheapest bourbon in existence. That, or JTS Brown BIB
In the 20-30 range. WSR, Elijah Craig, rebel yell 100, 1792, old Bardstown, and old forester rye 100 are all great prospects.
The best 30 dollar bottle used to be Henry McKenna 10yr. It’s not 50 and still worth it. Also, the lux row ezra brooks 7 year BP (117pf) is the best bourbon under 50 bucks.
But.... in summary... you may have noticed.... or not.... a lot of what I touted came from Heaven Hill!!!
JTS brown
Elijah Craig
Ezra brooks 7 BP
Henry McKenna 10
Rebel Yell 100
All HH juice ^^^
Oh, so is bernheim^^^^