I like the Bullitt and Redemption Rye for my mixed rye drinks. Both those are around $25
Just head over to Marco's garage - that's a great place to start.
I'm sure lots of folks will have opinions, but for me I think the lower proof, wheated bourbons are a good place to get started. They tend to be a bit more balanced and sweeter than something that is higher in rye. I really like the Weller Special Reserve - it's under $25 and has a nice sweetness to it. Larceny is another good one. Maker Mark also fits into the wheated category.
Then you can try and compare it to something with a bit higher rye. I really like Elijah Craig at around $30, and the Eagle Rare 10 is a nice balanced bourbon with rye adding a bit of spiciness. Basil Hayden's was also mentioned earlier and is a really tasty choice for a few more $$.
And if you want to try a bunch, then check out the airplane bottle section and buy a few for $2-3 a piece. You can get Larceny, Makers, Knob Creek (also really good) and a few others that you can compare against each other.
By law, a straight bourbon must age a minimum of two years to earn the label "straight"...meaning the youngest barrel in the blend must be aged at least two years.
My wife's throwing me a whiskey bday party today, so I should be back up to my stash standards
I've shared bourbons with a lot you around the campfire, but I suspect there are some other folks in the club that enjoy a good Kentucky spirit. Whatcha got at home? What are you enjoying right now? Who's making white dog?