Bourbon is the USA’s defining style of whiskey. The spirit of America. One of the most famous drink styles in the world. Sweet, rich, and packed with flavour. But how much do you know about bourbon?
You know it has to be made in Kentucky, right? Wrong. Bourbon whiskey must be made in the United States of America, not just the Bluegrass State. Bourbon was actually recognised in 1964 by the U.S. Congress as a "distinctive product of the United States."
Bourbon must also be made from at least 51% corn and matured in new charred oak barrels. Other grains used include rye, wheat, and malted barley and how much of each is used and for what purpose creates a huge amount of variation. From smooth wheated styles to punchy high-rye bourbons, the diversity across mashbills and maturation makes bourbon endlessly exploreable.
You probably know some big names already, like Buffalo Trace, Elijah Craig, Four Roses, Wild Turkey 101, Woodford Reserve, or Maker’s Mark. You’ll find these in most shops and bars around the world, ideal for sipping straight, pouring over ice, or mixing into cocktails like an Old Fashioned, a Manhattan, a Whiskey Sour, or a Mint Julep. But there’s also serious premium bourbon, like Blanton’s, Pappy Van Winkle, and the Buffalo Trace Antique Collection, which send collectors crazy.
Of course, Jack Daniel’s is a Tennessee whiskey, a style of bourbon made to strict regulations that you can read all about here. So when people ask, “Is Jack Daniel’s a bourbon?” you can happily reply, “Yes, well, no, sort of, let me explain…” like the rest of us whiskey nerds.
The other fun thing about bourbon is you’ll find heritage distilleries with long family history working away happily alongside upstart craft producers.
Love Bourbon? Explore Other American Whiskey Styles!
While Bourbon is America’s best-known whiskey, it’s just one chapter of a much bigger story. Craving bold spice? Rye Whiskey brings the heat. Prefer smooth and mellow? Tennessee Whiskey is your go-to. Want something unique? Try American Single Malt – crafted from 100% malted barley, and growing fast.