While bourbon is a type of American Whiskey, it possesses unique characteristics that set it apart. Enthusiasts have delved into its profile, flavour, ageing process, and production methods to understand its distinctiveness. Its sweeter taste, due to the unique combination of Kentucky’s natural resources, sets it apart from other whiskeys. This uniqueness makes bourbon a fascinating subject for enthusiasts to explore and share knowledge. If you’re an enthusiast eager to delve deeper, the distinctiveness of bourbon will surely intrigue you and make you eager to collaborate with industry leaders. 

How did American Whiskey, a spirit deeply rooted in American history, start its journey in the USA?

The enduring influence of the Scottish and Irish immigrants, with their deep-rooted love for whisky, is evident in the birth of American Whiskey. Settling on the east coast of the newly formed United States of America, these immigrants, many of whom were farmer distillers, could have spent more time establishing small distilleries. Their desire to create a unique type of whisky, one that would eventually become a hallmark of American spirits, is a testament to their enduring influence. This influence, which deserves our utmost respect and admiration, has significantly shaped the American whiskey we know today.

Difference between Whiskey and a Bourbon!

Barrel Aging: Ageing is crucial for flavouring and colouring the spirit. Bourbon is aged in new, charred oak barrels, whereas other American whiskeys may be aged in different types of wooden barrels. For instance, Tennessee whiskey undergoes a charcoal filtering process known as the Lincoln County Process before ageing in new charred oak barrels. This process, unique to Tennessee whiskey, involves filtering the whiskey through sugar maple charcoal, giving it a distinct flavour profile.

Modern-Day Whiskey -

With the rise of independent and micro-distilleries in recent years, innovation in American whiskey has surged, pushing the boundaries of what this spirit can be. These smaller, artisanal producers have embraced creativity and experimentation, leading to a renaissance in whiskey. One standout innovator in this movement is Westward Single Malt Whiskey Distillery from Portland, Oregon. Westward is renowned for its unique approach to American whiskey. Unlike traditional bourbons and rye whiskeys, Westward crafts its spirit from 100% malted barley, drawing inspiration from American and Scotch traditions. This single-malt whiskey showcases the versatility and potential of American whiskey beyond the classic corn-based recipes.

Mash Bill Composition: High-quality ingredients are ensured to get the right flavour profile. The sweet flavour in bourbon comes from corn mash; therefore, it must contain at least 51% corn, while other American whiskeys may have different primary grains. For example, rye whiskey must contain at least 51% rye, and corn whiskey must have at least 80% corn.

Legal Requirements – Bourbon
Bourbon is a specific type of American whiskey that must adhere to strict legal regulations to earn the name. According to the U.S. Federal Standards of Identity for Distilled Spirits, for a whiskey to be classified as bourbon, it must:

1. Be made in the United States.
2. Be produced from a mash that contains at least 51% corn.
3. Be distilled to no more than 160 proof (80% alcohol by volume).
4. Be aged in new, charred oak barrels.
5. Enter the barrel for ageing at no more than 125 proof (62.5% alcohol by volume).
6. Be bottled at no less than 80 proof (40% alcohol by volume).

Flavour Profile – Bourbon
The high corn content in bourbon’s mash bill is the secret behind its distinctive sweetness and rich flavour. The ageing process in new charred oak barrels adds a layer of complexity, imparting additional flavours such as caramel, vanilla, and oak. This meticulous process results in a smooth and flavourful spirit, inviting the audience to savour the unique Taste of Bourbon.

Bourbon is unique in American culture. It is often associated with the history and traditions of the American South, particularly Kentucky. Bourbon is a popular drink and a symbol of American craftsmanship and heritage.

Five Fast Facts

1. Bourbon can only be produced in the USA (or territories) to be labelled as bourbon.
2. Only bourbon bourbon produced in Kentucky can be called ‘Straight Bourbon’.
3. Bourbon must contain a minimum of 51% corn in its production recipe.
4. Bourbon is an all-natural spirit that cannot be charcoal filtered or contain flavours or additives.
5. American whiskey can be produced from various grains and utilize multiple production processes.

Final Thought

Learning about Whiskey and Bourbon is like learning about the science behind it and the art of making these excellent drinks. If you are an aspiring spirit enthusiast and you are looking for an opportunity in the Australian Liquor market and want to share your knowledge, then you have the platform right in front of you; click on this link of Repshare, join our network, get to meet the industrialists and critical players, participate in the tasting events and show your knowledge and let the audience experience the difference in the drinks flavour profile.