bourbon novice...suggestions please

[bulletproof]

I have recently decided that I'd like to gain more tasting experience with bourbon. I have acquired two bottles so far, Maker's Mark and W. L. Weller Special Reserve. As I understand it, these are both wheaters. Could someone make some suggestions as to some bourbons to try to experience the full range of what bourbon can taste like (high rye content, low rye content, high wheat, etc.) Also, since I am a college student cost is a consideration. Thanks.

[cowdery]

Old Grand-Dad and Bulleit are good choices for high-rye bourbons. Evan Williams is a good choice for a standard bourbon. Let your budget decide if you get the standard 7-year-old or the better but more expensive single barrel vintage. Old Charter is a very low rye content bourbon. On general principles, you should try Wild Turkey 101. Old Forester is a very good standard bourbon that is generally affordable.

Since price and availability vary so much around the country, you might also tell us some of the products available in your area that you might be considering and we can make recommendations based on that.

[TNbourbon]

Jim Beam Black is widely available and a solid rye-based "premium" bourbon with little overhead. But, you might consider basic JB White as a 'baseline' from which to build your judgments.