What is Bourbon?
Bourbon is a type of whiskey that is considered America’s native Spirit. While bourbon can be manufactured in any state, over 90% of bourbons we consume today are originate from Kentucky. Its reputation every increased since the Civil war devastated much of Virginia’s distilling culture. Kentucky is now known for its Bourbon Trail. For a spirit to be considered, bourbon, the Federal Standards of Identity for Distilled Spirits requires Bourbon to adhere to seven standard rules:
- It must be made in the U.S., Puerto Rico, or Washington, DC.
- The fermentable grain mixture (mash bill) must be at least 51% corn.
- It must be aged in new, charred oak barrels.
- It must be distilled to a maximum of 80% alcohol by volume or 160 proof.
- It must enter into a barrel for aging at no more than 125 proof or 62.5% alcohol by volume.
- There can be no artificial coloring or flavor.
- Spirits must bottle at a minimum of 40% ABV or 80 proof.
Virginia’s Role in Bourbon History?
The origins of bourbon are a hotly contested topic full of legend and myth for many. The Bourbonite Society honors Virginia’s rich distilling history. The original Bourbon County, Virginia was organized in 1785, while Kentucky was still part of Virginia. In 1789 a preacher-turned-entrepreneur, Elijah Craig, is said to have started aging corn whiskey in barrels in the western region of Virginia. Bourbon County was established from a larger region called Fayette County, Virginia. It was named in honor of King Louis XVI of France’s assistance during the American Revolutionary War. The ruler’s family surname was Bourbon.
Bourbon County, Virginia included much of today’s Eastern Kentucky, including 34 its current counties. When Kentucky separated from Virginia in 1792, the current Bourbon County in Kentucky remained while the right of the territory is also known as Old Bourbon. George Washington, was also a whiskey distiller. His operation at his Mount Vernon was launched in 1797 and became one of the largest in the country. Until the civil war, Virginia had a much distilling history.
What is the Difference Between Bourbon, Scotch and Whiskey?
Bourbon and scotch are both types of whiskey. However their components and manfuacturing process is different.
| Bourbon | Scotch | |
| Location | United States | Scotland |
| Grains Majority | Corn | Malted Barley |
| Taste Note | Sweeter | Smokey |
| Production | Unused Charred Oak Barrel only | Used Charred Oak Barrels allowed |
| Aging Requirement | No minimum Time | 3 year |
How Bourbon is Made?
Here is a detailed video from our friends at Bourbon Real Talk. In Randy Sullivan gives us a step by step tutorial on the entire process. It is about 40 minutes long, but well worth the watch if you want to become more knowledgeable on the process!
How Should Beginners drink bourbon?
Sip just a little bourbon, and let it roll around your mouth, over your tongue, and then smack your lips. This is called a Kentucky Chew. As you swallow, the bourbon will warm you up as it goes down.
