Introduction
Member’s Mark Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a private label bottle available exclusively at Sam’s Club—and at just $18.98 for a 750ml, it’s squarely aimed at budget-conscious bourbon drinkers. But there’s more going on here than just the price: the front label proudly mentions “Distilled in Kentucky, Established 1795,” tying it directly to Barton 1792 Distillery in Bardstown. That connection means you’re getting whiskey from the same facility that produces the well-regarded 1792 Small Batch Bourbon and other premium Barton products.
Of course, this isn’t 1792 in a different bottle. It’s very likely composed of barrels that didn’t make the cut for Barton’s flagship line—either younger, less refined, or slightly off-profile. That said, the quality is still quite respectable for a mixer—and perhaps even the occasional neat pour if you’re not chasing complexity. Let’s break it down.
Bottle Details:
- Type: Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
- ABV (Alcohol by Volume): 45% (90 Proof)
- Mash Bill: Undisclosed (likely Barton’s high-rye recipe)
- Age: NAS (estimated 3–4 years)
- Distillation: Barton 1792 Distillery – Bardstown, Kentucky
- Price: $18.98 (Sam’s Club, 750ml)
- Availability: Sam’s Club exclusive
Tasting Notes:
Nose:
Right off the bat, the nose is surprisingly clean for a value bourbon. You get classic Kentucky notes: light caramel, vanilla taffy, and cornbread sweetness with a touch of dill and clove—a telltale sign of Barton’s high-rye influence. Give it a swirl, and a layer of fresh-cut oak, orange zest, and a faint whiff of leather comes forward. There’s a slight ethanol note, but it’s not overpowering for a sub-$20 bottle.
Taste:
The palate is light-to-medium bodied, leaning sweet up front with flavors of toasted sugar, butterscotch, and honeyed cornmeal. Mid-palate brings a subtle spice—cinnamon stick, white pepper, and dry nutmeg—which hints at the rye content. There’s just enough oak to add depth, but it’s not overly tannic or bitter. The youthful grain character peeks through but doesn’t dominate. Think of it as a simplified version of 1792 Small Batch, lacking the layers but echoing some of its DNA.
Finish:
The finish is short to moderate in length, warming, and relatively clean. Expect a lingering note of vanilla bean, sweet corn, and a trace of burnt sugar. A slight dry oakiness remains at the back of the throat, accompanied by a faint herbal tingle. It’s simple, but not hollow.
How Much Would I Pay for Member’s Mark Bourbon?
💸 Max Price I Would Pay: $22 💸
At $18.98, it’s priced exactly where it should be. For those looking to stock up on a dependable mixer that won’t offend when poured neat, this is an excellent value. Any higher, and the competition heats up fast.
