Too long, don’t want to read? Listen here👇

bourbon.mp3

How to make a decision at the shelf (2 minutes)

• Looking for something softer? Bourbons with a lower amounts of rye often helps. Higher amounts of wheat is typically a smart move. Aim to stay under an alcohol content of 45%.
• Want to turn up the volume? Rye has spicy components and simulates a higher octane.

When to spend (and when not to)

There’s excellent bourbon under $30. Especially in cocktails, the best choice is rarely the most expensive. Reliable, flavorful picks include:

Old Forester

Evan Williams

Elijah Craig

Old Bardstown

Four Roses

Buffalo Trace

Save the pricier bottles for sipping neat or with some ice to slow down and notice every layer.

Stop here if you're in the store. This is enough to choose a good bourbon.

Everything from here down is for curiosity later.

Bourbon: A uniquely American spirit

Walk into any bar in America and bourbon will be staring back at you. It’s part of our cultural fabric and has a zealous following. Its name is as iconic as Kleenex or Coke, but in my experience, many people have trouble describing what actually makes bourbon bourbon.

Since 1964, bourbon has been legally defined as a U.S.–made whiskey distilled from at least 51% corn and aged in new American oak barrels. There is no required minimum that it has to be aged. No coloring or flavoring may be added after distillation.

What ingredients can be used to make a bourbon?

• Corn → sweetness and body
• Rye → spice and warmth
• Wheat → softens
• Barley → nutty and chocolate notes