Bourbon is an American Whiskey produced mainly in the southern part of Kentucky State. Kentucky is where 95 percent of the world’s bourbon is made. According to US Trade Legislation, a “bourbon” is a type of whiskey where the “mashbill”—which is the recipe of grains used to produce the whiskey—consists of 51% – 80% corn. Typically, distillers use approximately 70% corn content and are free to choose other grains for the remainder of the mashbill. The type of grain used will affect the style and flavours of the whiskey.
There are specific guidelines that distiller’s must follow in order to put the word bourbon on the label.
• The Process – Most bourbon starts with sour mash. It is taken from a previous batch of mash (crushed grain going through the fermentation process), set out to sour overnight, and then added to a new batch. The process is much like that of starting a sourdough bread.
• The Recipe – Bourbon is distilled from a fermented mash of grain, yeast and water. The “mash bill” must have a minimum of 51% corn. For most bourbons, the average is about 70%. Other grains such as rye, malted barley and wheat are considered the “flavour” grain.
• Length of Aging – Bourbon must be aged for a minimum of two years. Many premium bourbons on the market are aged between 5 -12, with some as long as 27 years.
• The Barrel – Bourbon must be aged in brand new barrels which are made of white oak and have been charred on the inside. Brands determine the varying levels of char for their barrels from 1 to 4.
• Flavour – By law nothing can be added at bottling except water. Nothing is added that might enhance flavour, add sweetness or alter colour.
• Proof – Bourbon is bottled at between 80 and 125 proof. Only water may be used to lower the proof of the alcohol.
• Location – Bourbon can be made anywhere in the US. Only whiskey produced in the State of Kentucky can be called labelled Kentucky Straight Whiskey.
All bourbon is whiskey is but not all whiskey is bourbon. Bourbon, by law, must be aged in a brand-new, charred white oak barrel to be called straight bourbon whiskey—that means, a barrel can only be used once for bourbon. Nothing can be added to bourbon in the distilling process except water. So, that means that all the flavour comes from the charred oak barrels. By law, bourbon must be aged in barrels for at least two years. As bourbon is “sleeping” in the barrel, it loses some to evaporation every year and that’s called the “angel’s share.”
Tempted already?
Available in India in the Traditional Bourbon list is Jim Beam, Woodford Reserve- a high rye bourbon it adds dry, spicy, peppery flavours to the character of the whiskey and Maker’s Mark a high wheat Bourbon.
Coming Soon is Michter’s!
