McAfee's Benchmark Old No. 8 Brand Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, USA

McAfee’s Benchmark Old No. 8 Brand Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a classic expression from the legendary Buffalo Trace Distillery, crafted with authenticity and accessibility in mind. Aged for a minimum of 36 months, this bourbon has earned a reputation as one of the best “bang for your buck” whiskeys, offering genuine Kentucky character at an approachable price point.

Product Details:

• Category: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
• Mash Bill: Over 50% corn, with rye, wheat, and malted barley/malted rye in the mix
• ABV: 40% (80 proof)
• Aging: Minimum 36 months in new charred American oak barrels
• Color: Dark amber

Sensory Description:

On the nose, Benchmark Old No. 8 offers mellow aromas of corn and honey, accented by gentle, sweet, and fruity notes. The palate leans dry, revealing hints of leather and subtle fruit, supported by a robust, grain-driven structure. Its finish brings corn mash to the forefront with layers of oak and dried fruit, ending slightly sour but clean. Straightforward and unpretentious, it is a bourbon that showcases simplicity and honest craftsmanship while delivering solid depth for its value.

Awards & Accolades:

• Silver – 2025 International Wine & Spirit Competition
• Silver – 2025 North American Bourbon and Whiskey Competition
• Silver (Tasting Awards) – 2025 International Spirits Challenge
• Bronze – 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition
• Silver – 2024 International Wine & Spirit Competition
• Bronze – 2024 North American Bourbon and Whiskey Competition
• Silver – 2024 International Wine & Spirits Awards
• Silver (Tasting Awards) – 2024 International Spirits Challenge
• Silver – 2024 Global Whisky Challenge
• Silver – 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition

Distiller's Background:

Produced at the historic Buffalo Trace Distillery, one of America’s oldest continuously operating whiskey makers, Benchmark carries a lineage steeped in tradition. While Buffalo Trace is renowned for its rare and highly sought-after limited releases, it also excels at producing accessible, everyday bourbons. Benchmark Old No. 8 honors the McAfee brothers, early surveyors who paved the way for Kentucky’s whiskey heritage, and continues to serve as an excellent example of quality bourbon at an exceptional value.

Serving Suggestions:

Enjoy Benchmark Old No. 8 neat or on the rocks to appreciate its straightforward profile, or use it as a versatile base for classic cocktails such as the Old Fashioned, Whiskey Sour, or Manhattan. Its approachable flavor and smooth finish also make it a great option for highballs or simple whiskey-and-cola pairings.

Benchmark Old No. 8 is proof that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy genuine Kentucky bourbon, a reliable, value-packed bottle with historic roots and everyday appeal.