ABOUT BOURBON

Bourbon is a distinctively American whiskey made from at least 51% corn, aged in new charred oak barrels, and bottled at a minimum of 40% ABV (80 proof). It must be produced in the U.S. and contains no additives, offering a sweet, rich profile of vanilla, caramel, and oak. 

 

KEY FACTS & REGULATIONS

• ORIGIN: Produced anywhere in the US, but 95% is made in Kentucky.

• MASH BILL: Must be at least 51% corn, with the rest usually rye, wheat, or malted barley.

• AGING: Must be aged in new charred oak containers. There is no minimum age requirement, but "Straight" bourbon requires a minimum of 2 years.

• PRODUCTION: Distilled at a maximum of 80% ABV ( proof) and entered into the barrel at no more than 62.5% ABV ( proof).

• NO ADDITIVES: Cannot contain added flavoring or coloring. 

 

BOURBON TASTE PROFILE
Bourbon is characterized by its sweet, robust flavor profile. Common notes include caramel, vanilla, toffee, cinnamon, oak, and dried fruit. The taste is influenced by the grain mash, the char level of the barrel, and the climate during aging. 

 

TYPES OF BOURBON

• STRAIGHT BOURBON: Aged for at least two years.

• SMALL BATCH: Blended from a limited number of barrels.

• SINGLE BARREL: Bottled from a single, individual barrel.

• HIGH-RYE BOURBON: Contains a higher percentage of rye, resulting in a spicier taste.

• WHEATED BOURBON: Uses wheat instead of rye for a softer, sweeter, smoother profile.

• BOTTLED-IN-BOND: Produced in a single distillery, from one season, aged at least 4 years, and bottled at 100 proof.