Bourbon FAQ — The 15 Most-Asked Bourbon Questions Answered | The Liquor Connoisseur®
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- 6 days ago
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The most-asked bourbon questions — answered by Crystal and Roger of The Liquor Connoisseur®.
What is the difference between bourbon and whiskey?
All bourbon is whiskey, but not all whiskey is bourbon. Bourbon is an American whiskey that must be made from at least 51% corn, aged in new charred oak containers, distilled to no more than 160 proof, and produced in the United States. There's no requirement that it be made in Kentucky — though most is.
Does bourbon have to be made in Kentucky?
No. Bourbon can be made anywhere in the United States. Texas, New York, Oklahoma, and dozens of other states produce bourbon. Kentucky makes about 95% of the world's bourbon, but that's tradition and geography, not law.
What does 'bottled in bond' mean?
Bottled in Bond is a legal designation from the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897. It means the bourbon must be: produced at a single distillery in a single distilling season, aged at least 4 years, bottled at exactly 100 proof, and stored in a federally bonded warehouse. It's one of the best quality guarantees in American whiskey.
What is a wheated bourbon?
A wheated bourbon uses wheat as the secondary grain in its mashbill (instead of the more common rye). This produces a softer, sweeter flavor profile. Famous examples include Maker's Mark, Pappy Van Winkle, and Weller. Crystal and Roger have reviewed Maker's Mark 101, Penelope Rosé Cask, and multiple wheated expressions.
What is cask strength bourbon?
Cask strength (also called barrel proof or barrel strength) means the bourbon is bottled directly from the barrel without being diluted with water. Most bourbon is diluted to 80-100 proof before bottling. Cask strength expressions typically run 110-130+ proof and deliver much more intense flavor. Crystal and Roger reviewed Frank August Small Batch and Still Austin Cask Strength.
What's the difference between single barrel and small batch?
Single barrel bourbon comes from one individual barrel — every bottle in a single barrel release came from the same cask. Small batch is a blend of a limited number of barrels, typically selected for consistency. Single barrel expressions show more variation bottle to bottle; small batch is more consistent.
How should I taste bourbon?
The Liquor Connoisseur method: Pour 1-2oz. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes. Nose it with your mouth slightly open (reduces alcohol burn on the nose). Take a small first sip to coat your palate. Then taste properly — let it sit on your tongue, breathe in through your nose, and pay attention to the finish. Add a drop of water if the proof is high.
What's the best bourbon under $50?
Crystal and Roger's picks: Wild Turkey 101 (~$28), George Dickel Bottled in Bond (~$30), Maker's Mark 101 (~$35), Uncle Nearest 1884 (~$45). Full ranked list in our Best Bourbons Under $50 post.
🥃 Want to Taste and Learn With an Expert?
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