Bourbon
Bourbon is a whiskey made from at least 51% corn and aged in charred oak barrels. It is named after Bourbon County, Kentucky. It has a unique flavor profile with notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and a warming sensation from its high alcohol content. People can enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails such as Old Fashioned or Manhattan.
Making Bourbon involves distilling the mash to create a clear spirit. Then, it is aged in new, charred oak barrels for a minimum of two years. The longer it is aged, the more complex its flavor profile becomes. The charred oak barrels give the whiskey its flavors and colors.
Bourbon is subject to strict regulations by the US government. It must be produced in the United States, made from specific grains, distilled to no more than 80% alcohol by volume, and bottled at no less than 40% alcohol by volume. These regulations ensure Bourbon’s unique flavor and quality, making it a cherished American tradition.
