After 7 years in the cask, whiskey begins to mature into a more refined spirit. The sharpness from its early days starts to mellow out, with the oak barrel introducing subtle hints of vanilla, spice, or fruit. This 7-year-old spirit is proof of how time and the right ageing conditions can work wonders.
Bourbon whiskey isn't just a beverage; it tells a tale of America's heritage. Rooted in both tradition and innovation, bourbon is the essence of the U.S., captured in a glass. To qualify as bourbon, there are certain rules to be followed. It must originate from the U.S. and have at least 51% corn in its blend. Moreover, this 7-year-old spirit's ageing is pivotal, with maturation set in newly charred oak barrels.
Kentucky often takes centre stage when discussing bourbon's origins. Blessed with pristine limestone springs, Kentucky provides the pure water essential for distilling this 7-year-old drink. The state's varied climate plays a key role, too, ensuring that the whiskey imbibes deep flavours from the barrels, such as honey, spice, and a hint of smokiness.
Over the years, bourbon has cemented its place in American culture. This 7-year-old spirit has been at the heart of many a significant moment, from historical events to present-day celebrations.
While well-established names like Evan Williams have laid down the standards, the newer generation of distillers is shaping bourbon's future. With fresh approaches and a zest for experimentation, they ensure that the tale of the 7-year-old bourbon remains both rich and ever-changing.