What is bourbon?
Bourbon is a type of whiskey that must meet specific legal requirements in the United States. It is primarily made from corn and aged in new, charred oak barrels.
2. What are the legal requirements for bourbons?
To be legally considered bourbon, it must:
- Be made in the USA.
- Contain at least 51% corn in its mash bill.
- Be distilled to no more than 160 proof (80% ABV).
- Be aged in new, charred oak barrels.
- Enter the barrel at no more than 125 proof (62.5% ABV).
- Be bottled at a minimum of 80 proof (40% ABV).
- Contain no additives for flavor or color.
3. Does bourbon have to be made in Kentucky?
No, bourbon can be made anywhere in the U.S., but Kentucky is the most famous producer, making about 95% of the world’s supply.
4. How long does bourbon have to be aged?
There is no minimum aging requirement for bourbon, but to be called “straight bourbon,” it must be aged for at least two years. If aged less than four years, the bottle must state the aging duration.
5. What is the difference between bourbon and whiskey?
All bourbons are whiskey, but not all whiskeys are bourbon. Bourbon must meet strict legal guidelines, while whiskey is a broader category that includes rye, Scotch, and Irish whiskey.
6. What is bottled-in-bond bourbon?
This refers to bourbon that:
- Is aged at least four years.
- Is bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV).
- Is produced in one distilling season at one distillery.
- Follows the standards of the 1897 Bottled-in-Bond Act.
7. What is a single-barrel bourbon?
A single-barrel bourbon is bottled from one individual barrel, rather than a blend of multiple barrels, resulting in unique flavor variations between bottles.
8. What is small-batch bourbon?
Small-batch bourbon is made by blending a select number of barrels to create a specific flavor profile. There is no legal definition for how many barrels count as “small batch.”
9. What does “high rye” or “wheated” bourbon mean?
- High rye bourbon has a higher percentage of rye in the mash bill, giving it a spicier flavor.
- Wheated bourbon replaces rye with wheat, resulting in a smoother, softer taste.
10. What is the best way to drink bourbon?
Bourbon can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, with a splash of water, or in cocktails like the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, or Mint Julep.
11. Does bourbon improve with age?
Bourbon matures in the barrel, but once bottled, it no longer ages. Over-aging can sometimes cause bourbon to become overly woody or tannic.
12. What’s the difference between bourbon and Tennessee whiskey?
Tennessee whiskey follows the same rules as bourbon but must also undergo the Lincoln County Process, which involves filtering the whiskey through charcoal before aging. Jack Daniel’s is a famous example.
13. Is there a difference between cheap and expensive bourbon?
Price differences usually reflect age, rarity, and brand reputation. Some affordable bourbons are excellent, while some high-priced ones are sought after for their exclusivity rather than just taste.
14. What is the rarest or most expensive bourbon?
Some of the most expensive and rare bourbons include:
- Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve
- Buffalo Trace Antique Collection
- Michter’s 25-Year-Old
- William Larue Weller
15. Can I make my own bourbon at home?
No, distilling alcohol at home without a proper federal license is illegal in the U.S. However, you can legally blend or age store-bought whiskey at home.
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