McAfee’s Benchmark Old No. 8 Brand Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

McAfee’s Benchmark Bourbon Whiskey Old No. 8: The Ultimate Guide to Buffalo Trace’s Entry-Level Gem

In the sprawling universe of American Kentucky whiskey, the journey often begins with a single, affordable, and approachable bottle. For countless bourbon enthusiasts, that bottle is McAfee’s Benchmark Old No. 8 Brand Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. As the foundational expression in the Benchmark portfolio from the legendary Buffalo Trace Distillery, this bourbon serves as an open invitation to the world of premium whiskey, offering a surprisingly smooth and flavorful experience without the premium price tag. In a market saturated with expensive options, this benchmark-bourbon truly lives up to its name, setting a high standard for what a value-priced straight bourbon whiskey can achieve.

At Rare Finds Liquor Store, we understand that every great collection needs a reliable, high-quality cornerstone. This guide is your definitive resource for McAfee’s Benchmark Old No. 8, providing an in-depth look at its accessible profile, its prestigious distillery heritage, and the undeniable value that has made it a beloved staple for both newcomers and seasoned drinkers alike.

The Benchmark Rebirth: A Tiered Strategy for Every Palate

The Benchmark brand has a history dating back to the 1960s, but it was the Buffalo Trace Distillery‘s strategic relaunch in 2021 that truly cemented its modern relevance. The distillery reimagined Benchmark as a tiered collection, a “ladder” of bourbons that allows drinkers to explore increasing levels of complexity and proof from the same core distillery character.

McAfee’s Benchmark Old No. 8 sits proudly as the base of this ladder. It is the gateway, the introduction to the Buffalo Trace flavor profile. From here, enthusiasts can climb to the Bonded, Single Barrel, and powerful Full Proof expressions. This thoughtful strategy makes the benchmark-bourbon review process a journey in itself, starting with the honest and unpretentious Old No. 8.

The Hallowed Home: Buffalo Trace Distillery

The most compelling aspect of McAfee’s Benchmark Old No. 8 is its prestigious origin. This affordable bourbon is a direct product of the Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky—a National Historic Landmark and the hallowed ground responsible for some of the world’s most coveted buffalo trace bourbons, including the namesake Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Eagle Rare, and the mythical Van Winkle line.

This shared lineage is the secret behind Old No. 8’s quality. It is distilled from the same pristine limestone water, fermented with the same proprietary yeast strains, and utilizes the same Mash Bill #1 (the low-rye recipe) as its more famous and expensive siblings. While it may not see the same extended aging, it benefits from the same foundational craftsmanship and quality control. When you drink Benchmark Old No. 8, you are tasting the authentic, approachable side of the Buffalo Trace DNA.

Bourbon Fundamentals: Understanding the Label

For those new to bourbon, the label on McAfee’s Benchmark-Bourbon tells a story of quality and tradition:

• Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey: This means it is produced in Kentucky, aged for a minimum of two years in new charred oak barrels, and contains no added coloring or flavoring.

• Sour Mash: The benchmark premium bourbon sour mash process uses a portion of a previous fermentation (the “setback”) to start the new one. This technique, used by most major bourbon producers, helps maintain consistency and control pH levels across batches. It does not mean the whiskey tastes sour.

• Old No. 8 Brand: This is the historic name of the expression, a nod to its original legacy and a designation that sets it apart within the broader Benchmark family.

Tasting Notes: The Profile of an Approachable Classic

A McAfee benchmark top floor bourbon review must judge the spirit on its own terms. This is not a complex, oak-laden bourbon meant for deep contemplation; it is a smooth, enjoyable, and versatile spirit designed for daily enjoyment.

Nose

The aroma is light, sweet, and immediately inviting. There is very little ethanol burn, making it exceptionally approachable. Notes of sweet corn and creamy caramel are dominant, followed by a gentle hint of honey and vanilla wafer. A very subtle, almost floral, scent lingers in the background, with just a whisper of oak to provide a soft foundation.

Palate

The palate is light-bodied and smooth, with a gentle mouthfeel. The flavor profile is straightforward and sweet, mirroring the nose. Flavors of caramel corn, light brown sugar, and a touch of honey lead the way. There is a faint fruitiness, reminiscent of green apple, and a very mild, barely-there peppery note that provides just a hint of structure. The benchmark-bourbon whiskey experience is defined by its lack of harshness and its easy-drinking nature.

Finish

The finish is short, clean, and slightly sweet. It fades quickly, leaving a faint memory of vanilla and caramel, with no bitterness or lingering spice. It’s a “clean” finish that doesn’t overstay its welcome, making it perfect for sipping or as a base for cocktails.

Context and Comparison: The Old No. 8’s Place in the Market

• Within the benchmark bourbon lineup: As the entry point, Old No. 8 is the smoothest and most approachable. It’s the perfect choice for those who find higher-proof bourbons too intense. It serves as the foundational reference against which the Bonded and Full Proof expressions can be compared.

• The Value Proposition: When conducting a benchmark bourbon review, the value is undeniable. It consistently ranks as one of the best-tasting bourbons in its price category. It offers a more refined and less harsh experience than many other budget-friendly competitors.

• Versus Standard Buffalo Trace: The flagship Buffalo Trace Bourbons offers more complexity, with deeper notes of dried fruit, toffee, and spice. McAfee’s Benchmark Old No. 8 is its lighter, sweeter, and more simple cousin. It provides a glimpse of the family resemblance but in a softer, more muted package. For those determining the best benchmark bourbon collection for a beginner, Old No. 8 is the unequivocal answer.

The Ideal Drinker: Who Is This Bourbon For?

McAfee’s Benchmark Old No. 8 is perfectly suited for:

1. The Bourbon Beginner: Its smooth, sweet, and non-intimidating profile is an ideal introduction to the category.

2. The Budget-Conscious Enthusiast: It delivers remarkable quality for its price, making it an excellent daily sipper.

3. The Home Bartender: Its mild character makes it an outstanding and affordable base for a wide range of cocktails where you don’t want the whiskey to overpower other ingredients.

The Acquisition: Unbeatable Price and Wide Availability

The accessibility of this bourbon is one of its greatest strengths.

• Price Point: The Buffalo Trace whiskey price for the Benchmark line is famously low, and Old No. 8 is the most affordable of them all. It represents one of the best value propositions in the entire spirits market.

• Availability: Unlike the often-elusive flagship Buffalo Trace Bourbons, Old No. 8 is produced and distributed with the goal of being widely available. A search for “bourbon for sale near me” is highly likely to yield positive results, making it a reliable and consistent staple for any home bar.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is Benchmark-Bourbon really made by Buffalo Trace?
A: Yes, absolutely. McAfee’s Benchmark Old No. 8 is distilled, aged, and bottled by the Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky. It is a core, value-priced member of their extensive portfolio.

Q2: What does “Old No. 8” mean?
A: “Old No. 8” is the historic brand name for this specific expression. It doesn’t refer to an age statement but is a part of the brand’s legacy and identity, distinguishing it from the other expressions in the Benchmark lineup.

Q3: Is this a good bourbon for mixing in cocktails?
A: It is an excellent bourbon for cocktails. Its mild and sweet profile makes it a versatile base that won’t dominate a drink. It works wonderfully in a Whiskey Sour, with Ginger Ale, or in a simple Bourbon & Coke, providing a solid whiskey backbone without breaking the bank.

Q4: How does it compare to other budget bourbons like Evan Williams?
A: Both are standout values. A benchmark single barrel bourbon review often notes that Old No. 8 tends to be lighter, sweeter, and more corn-forward, with a softer mouthfeel. Evan Williams Black Label often presents a darker, more caramel-and-oak profile. Both are fantastic for the price; the choice is a matter of personal preference for sweetness versus oak.

Q5: Where is the best place to buy Benchmark Old No. 8?
A: For convenience and reliability, you can buy bourbon online from retailers like Rare Finds Liquor Store. We ensure this high-value staple is always available to our customers. It is also widely found in local liquor stores, making it one of the easiest buffalo trace bourbons to acquire.

Conclusion: The Unassuming Champion of Value

McAfee’s Benchmark Old No. 8 Brand Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a testament to the idea that great whiskey doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive. It is a humble, well-crafted, and thoroughly enjoyable spirit that proudly carries the DNA of one of the world’s best distilleries. It fulfills its role as an introductory bourbon flawlessly, providing a smooth and satisfying experience that welcomes newcomers into the fold without alienating seasoned drinkers looking for an easy-sipping, budget-friendly option.

It may not be the most complex pour on your shelf, but its reliability, quality, and astounding value make it an indispensable one. It is the solid foundation upon which a love for bourbon can be built and a bottle that will always have a place in a well-rounded home bar.

At Rare Finds Liquor Store, we believe that value and quality are not mutually exclusive. McAfee’s Benchmark Old No. 8 is proof of that philosophy—a true rare find in the world of affordable, everyday whiskey.

Explore our curated collection of bourbons at Rare Finds Liquor Store. From foundational values like Benchmark Old No. 8 to the world’s most legendary rare bourbons, we are your premier online destination to buy bourbon online.