Bourbon 101: Intro to an American Spirit

So what makes a bourbon, a bourbon? Bourbon is the quintessential American spirit with a history that goes back to the 18th century but I’ll save the history for another post.  For now, let’s focus on giving you everything you need to kick start your bourbon journey. 

At its most basic, bourbon is a spirit that is distilled from a fermented mash of grains, yeast, and water that is barreled in charred new American Oak barrels.  The percentage of grains, the strain of yeast, the barrel, and even the water vary greatly between each distillery and that’s what makes each bourbon unique. While each bourbon can be unique there are a set of laws put forth that regulate what can and cannot be considered bourbon.  The easiest way to break down the rules around bourbon is to use the ABCs. 

American - Bourbon must be made in the United States.

Barrels - Bourbon must be aged using new charred American oak barrels.

Corn - Corn must make up 51% of the grains used to make bourbon.

Distilled - It must be distilled at no more than 160 proof.

Entered - Bourbon must be entered into the barrel for aging at no more than 125 proof.

Filled - Bourbon must be bottled at no less than 80 proof.

Genuine - Bourbon cannot contain any artificial colors or flavors.  Only water can be added. 

While there is a whole lot more to bourbon remembering the ABCs is a great way to start.