BOURBON
America’s Native Spirit — Aged in Char and History
Bourbon is the bold, full-bodied whiskey that defines American distilling. Legally rooted in U.S. soil and made primarily from corn, bourbon is known for its deep sweetness, warm spice, and signature notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. Whether sipped neat, on the rocks, or in classic cocktails, bourbon is both heritage-rich and endlessly versatile—a true cornerstone of the whiskey world.
Key Characteristics
By law, bourbon must be made in the U.S., use at least 51% corn in its mash bill, and age in new, charred oak barrels. The result is a whiskey with a rich, round profile and flavors that lean toward the sweeter side of the spectrum, often balanced by spice or toast from the barrel.
Style
Straight, bottled-in-bond, small batch, single barrel, cask strength
Body
Medium to full
Texture
Rich, oily, warming
Primary Grains
Corn (minimum 51%), with varying amounts of rye, wheat, and malted barley
Typical Flavors
Caramel, vanilla, baked apple, toffee, cinnamon, clove, toasted oak, peanut shell, maple, cherry
Origin & History
Bourbon’s origins lie in the American frontier, with early settlers distilling corn-based whiskey as far back as the late 18th century. The style became closely tied to Kentucky, where ideal climate and water conditions helped it flourish. In 1964, bourbon was declared “a distinctive product of the United States,” cementing its cultural and legal identity. Today, while Kentucky remains its spiritual home, bourbon is made across the country by both legacy producers and modern craft distillers.
How It’s Made
Bourbon is distilled from a mash of at least 51% corn and aged in new, charred American oak barrels. It must enter the barrel at no more than 125 proof and be bottled at a minimum of 80 proof. No additives (like flavoring or coloring) are allowed. Many bourbons are aged for 4 to 8 years, though some stretch far beyond. Differences in mash bill (e.g., high rye vs. wheated) and barrel aging create a broad range of expressions.
Notable Styles
While all bourbon follows the same basic legal framework, variations in mash bill, aging, and bottling create a wide range of distinctive styles.
Traditional Bourbon
Balanced, corn-sweet, with baking spice and oak
High-Rye Bourbon
Spicier and bolder, with pepper and herbal notes
Wheated Bourbon
Softer and rounder, often with fruit, honey, or pastry tones
Single Barrel
Each barrel bottled on its own, showing unique nuance
Cask Strength
Bottled without dilution; intense and full-powered
Bottled-in-Bond
100 proof, made by one distiller in one season, aged at least 4 years
Cocktail Pairings
Bourbon’s rich flavor holds up in spirit-forward and sweetened cocktails alike.
Classic Cocktails
Old Fashioned, Mint Julep, Manhattan (bourbon style), Boulevardier, Whiskey Sour
Modern Mixes
Smoked Peach Old Fashioned, Honey Bourbon Lemonade, Maple Walnut Smash, Bourbon & Ginger with Lime
Food Pairings
Bourbon’s caramelized sweetness and warming spice make it a great match for hearty, grilled, or glazed foods—as well as dessert.
With Savory
Barbecue ribs, smoked brisket, fried chicken, roasted sweet potatoes
With Cheese
Aged cheddar, blue cheese, gouda, pimento cheese dip
With Dessert
Pecan pie, bread pudding, chocolate torte, maple-glazed donuts
How to Serve It
Glassware
Glencairn, rocks glass, or tumbler
Temperature
Room temperature for sipping; slightly chilled or over a large ice cube for a mellowed experience
Storage
Store upright in a cool, dark place. Once opened, bourbon is stable for several years if sealed well.
Fun Fact
Despite its strong ties to Kentucky, bourbon can legally be made anywhere in the U.S.—and today, you’ll find acclaimed bourbons from New York to Texas to California.
Recommended Producers
These houses exemplify the diversity and craftsmanship of American bourbon, showcasing regional character, aging techniques, and bold flavor profiles.
Angel’s Envy
A Louisville-based distillery known for its elegant, port barrel–finished bourbon that adds a smooth, fruity dimension to classic Kentucky character.
Evan Williams
One of Kentucky’s most enduring labels, producing approachable, well-balanced bourbons that deliver quality and value.
Baker’s
A single-barrel expression from the Jim Beam family, offering bold, complex bourbon aged 7 years for depth and structure.
Garrison Brothers
A Texas trailblazer crafting rich, high-proof bourbons that reflect the intensity of their climate and commitment to handmade excellence.
Recommended Pours
Angels Envy - Bourbon — A smooth, port barrel–finished bourbon with layered notes of ripe fruit, vanilla, and spice wrapped in a silky finish.
Baker's - Bourbon 7 year Old — A bold, single-barrel bourbon aged 7 years, delivering deep flavors of toasted oak, dark fruit, and warm baking spice.
Evan Williams - Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Black Label — A classic, value-driven bourbon offering sweet oak, caramel, and a touch of spice with a smooth, balanced profile.
Garrison Brothers - Texas Straight Bourbon Whiskey — A robust, full-bodied Texas bourbon with rich caramel, charred oak, and a distinctive heat shaped by the Lone Star climate.