What makes it bourbon?
- Must be produced in the United States
- Must contain at least a 51% corn mash bill
- Must be aged in new oak-charred barrels
- Must be distilled to no more than 160 proof and enter the barrel at 125 proof
- Must be bottled at no less than 80 proof
- Must not contain any added flavoring , coloring, or other additives
The Mash Bill
is fancy distiller talk meaning a recipe that is generally grouped into a category. All contain at least 51% corn, other ingredients are at the discretion of the distiller. The Categories include:
- Traditional bourbon
- High Corn bourbon
- High Rye bourbon
- Wheated bourbon
The more traditional bourbons contain 8 to 12 percent rye, giving them a taste of some spice and heat noticeable through the finish. Using wheat instead of rye allows the flavor of the sweeter grains, with notes of vanilla and caramel, to be more prominent. Wheated bourbon has a delightfully smooth finish and mouth-feel, making them very easy to sip neat or on the rocks.