Originally Posted by
number_6
Someone who appreciates JW Green (quite fine and good value, just in short supply). I drink Early Times but the export version -- the US version is completely different and crap. While the export one is superb, easily twice as good as JD. Otherwise the widely available Woodford Reserve is made in the same distillery as Early Times (but a more expensive product, a bit better than Early Times but not as cost effective).
Of course, while Early Times is Kentucky whiskey, it's not bourbon. For the range of bourbon tastes, I'd recommend Maker's Mark or W. L. Weller (wheat), Bulleit (rye), Woodford Reserve (sort of in the middle).
I think that most cocktails taste better with rye, rather than bourbon, but if I am making something like a hot toddy, I'll use Evan Williams, which to my taste has great value for money.
Oops, according to Wikipedia the export Early Time is bourbon. It's the domestic stuff that isn't, and it isn't even straight whiskey. My mistake.