Bourbon Whiskey

Bourbon Whiskey is a type of American whiskey that is a barrel-aged distilled spirit made primarily from corn. The name is derived from the French Bourbon dynasty, although the precise inspiration for the whiskey's name is uncertain; contenders include Bourbon County, Kentucky and Bourbon Street in New Orleans. Bourbon has been distilled since the 18th century.

History

The use of the term "bourbon" for the whiskey has been traced to the 1820s, and the term began to be used consistently in Kentucky in the 1870s. While bourbon may be made anywhere in the United States, it is strongly associated with the American South, and with Kentucky in particular.

Production process

Bourbon whiskey is distilled from a grain mixture that is at least 51% corn, aged in new, charred oak barrels. The spirit must be distilled to no more than 160 (U.S.) proof, and entered into the barrel for aging at no more than 125 proof. Bourbon that meets these requirements, has been aged for a minimum of two years, and does not have added coloring, flavoring, or other spirits may be called "straight" bourbon.

Types of Bourbon

There are several types of bourbon whiskey, including Single Barrel Bourbon, which is bottled from a single barrel, and Small Batch Bourbon, which is a blend of a small number of barrels. There is also Cask Strength Bourbon, which is bottled from the barrel undiluted or only lightly diluted.

Taste and aroma

Bourbon has a strong, rich flavor that comes from its main ingredient, corn, and the charred oak barrels it's aged in. The taste is often described as having notes of vanilla, oak, and caramel. The aroma of bourbon is often described as sweet and smoky.

In popular culture

Bourbon whiskey is a popular choice in many classic American cocktails, including the Old Fashioned, Mint Julep, and Whiskey Sour. It's also enjoyed neat or on the rocks.

See also

• American whiskey
• Corn whiskey
• Tennessee whiskey
• Rye whiskey