Bourbon Whisky: How it’s Made + Different Styles

Who invented bourbon?

It is unlikely that there is one single inventor of American whiskey. However, Baptist minister by day, Elijah Craig, is generally attributed this honor. In 1789, he came up with the idea of maturing corn whiskey in a charred barrel. However, there were several corn whiskey distilleries in the region before then. Another story gives credit to Jacob Spears of Bourbon County for being the first to label his product bourbon whiskey. 

Where was bourbon first made?

Bourbon was first made in Kentucky. And to this day, most bourbon is still made in Kentucky. 95% of the world’s bourbon supply comes from Kentucky. However, bourbon production is not limited to the Blue Grass State. But it is limited to the U.S. Federal standards concerning bourbon identity declare that it is “a distinctive product of the United States.” The word bourbon may not be used for a whiskey-based spirit produced outside of the U.S.

Where does the name bourbon come from? The two most popular theories are as follows:

1. The name bourbon comes from Bourbon County in Kentucky.
2. The caramel brown spirit is named after Bourbon Street in New Orleans.

How is bourbon made?

The bourbon-making process is unique. Here is the step-by-step:

1. The producers select grains to form the mash.
2. The grains are ground and cooked for a short while. 
3. Most bourbon starts with a sour mash. Much like starting a sourdough bread, mash from a previous batch is left to sour overnight and then added to a new lot of mash.
4. For fermentation to proceed, water and yeast are added to the mash.
5. Bourbon makers leave the mash mixture in vats for 7-14 days to fully ferment the mixture.
6. With fermentation complete, producers strain the liquid (ethanol) from the fermented solids. The solids are discarded, and the liquid is distilled to make bourbon.
7. Distillation serves to purify and increase the ABV of the liquor. Most bourbons undergo two rounds of distillation. The first takes place in beer stills. The second distillation commonly happens in thumpers or doublers, which are heated copper pot stills.
8. At 40–62.5 % ABV, the distillate is poured into new charred oak barrels for maturation.
9. After aging, the distillers test the distillate. The product is diluted with filtered water to achieve the desired alcohol content.
10. And then it is bottled and ready for market!

What is the difference between bourbon and whiskey?

All bourbon is whiskey, but not all whiskey is bourbon! There are some subtle differences in the production and aging of these two spirits:

• For a whiskey to become bourbon, it’s distilled from a mixture of grains/mash that comprises at least 51% corn. The corn gives the bourbon its characteristic sweet flavor.
• Bourbon must be aged in new charred oak barrels. To be labeled as a straight bourbon, aging must be for a minimum of 2 years. Other types of whisky are aged in used barrels.
• Unlike other types of whiskeys, bourbons may not be made with any colorings or additives.
• The bourbon mash must be distilled at 80% alcohol by volume (ABV) or less. Aging in barrels takes place until the bourbon is no more than 62.5% ABV or less.
• Before bottling, distillers will filter and dilute the bourbon down to a minimum of 40% ABV.

What should I look for when buying bourbon?

Now that you know the differences between whiskey and bourbon, it is time to unpack the different bourbon categories.

1. Single barrel. It means just that: These bottles of bourbon came from a single barrel. The terminology indicates that the producers thought that that particular barrel was an excellent example of bourbon.
2. A small-batch bourbon is created by combining a selection of a few choice barrels. As opposed to a distiller’s flagship blend, which is made by combining hundreds or even thousands of barrels.
3. Cask strength refers to the fact that these bourbons are not watered down before bottling. Looking for an intense, put-hair-on-your-chest style of bourbon? Give this one a try.
4. Wheated bourbons (AKA ‘wheaters’) typically have a softer palate with a characteristic nuttiness. This is because of the higher percentage of wheat used in the mashbill.
5. High Corn. The minimum of 51% corn in the grain recipe imparts a signature sweetness to bourbon whiskies. Some producers take this to the next level and produce bourbon with even higher ratios of corn.
6. High Rye. Traditional bourbon recipes comprise around 10% rye. Rye contributes spiciness and boldness to the whiskey. Some producers opt for more rye to increase those characteristics.

If you are looking to have your groceries delivered, you can easily shop for bourbon via Instacart. After adding a product to your cart, use the “Instructions” option to notify your Instacart shopper about any preferences or specific directions on how to choose the best bourbon for you.

What can I substitute for bourbon?

Scotch, Irish, or Tennessee whiskey. You could substitute just about any of these for bourbon. While there are subtle differences in their flavor profiles, the experience of drinking whiskey as opposed to bourbon is comparable.

Is bourbon good for cocktails?

Bourbon has a unique flavor profile that makes it ideal for use in cocktails. Fancy a mint julep, anyone? A few more ideas for bourbon cocktails include:

• The old-fashioned. This timeless classic comprises bourbon, sugar, and a few splashes of bitters. Turn it into a tall cocktail with orange juice or soda.
• The Belmont jewel. Named for the Belmont Stakes in the Triple Crown, this drink is a favorite on any day. Mix your favorite bourbon with lemonade and pomegranate juice. Dressing up is always a good idea when it comes to the races or cocktails. In this case, a lemon wedge, pomegranate rubies, and/or orange zest will look smashing!
• If you are in the mood for something comforting, try a Kentucky coffee. Mix one ounce of bourbon, ½ an ounce of honey liquor, and 6oz of freshly brewed coffee for the perfect nightcap or Winter cocktail. Dress it up with a dollop of whipped cream and a few chocolate shavings to take it to the next level.

Same-day alcohol delivery to your door!

Do you have your list of ingredients ready for your next cocktail party? Don’t fret about heading to the grocery store. Instead, use Instacart to select what you need from the comfort of your own home. Choose from a wide range of spirits and mixers at liquor stores near you. Choose the same-day delivery or pick-up option and get on with polishing your cocktail glasses! 

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