Bourbon
Also known as: bourbon whiskey
In short
Bourbon is the US whiskey with corn in its blood: at least 51 percent, aged in new charred casks. We explain the legal rules, sour mash and why Kentucky is inseparable from it.
In depth
What is bourbon?
Bourbon is American whiskey with at least 51 percent corn, aged in new charred oak casks, without colour or flavour additives. That is what US law demands. The straight bourbon grade only applies from two years of cask age.
Kentucky and the rest of the country
Kentucky stands for the majority of production, but legally bourbon may be made anywhere in the USA. The name goes back to Bourbon County in Kentucky.
Sour mash
Many distilleries work with sour mash: part of the mash from the previous run is added to the new batch and stabilises the fermentation. The principle works like a sourdough starter that gets passed on.
Classics with bourbon
Mint julep and Old Fashioned. "The julep brings the mint", and the Old Fashioned is built: "The shaker makes texture, the mixing glass makes silk, the built drink stays still."
Remember this one
"Scotch makes the dignity, bourbon the sweetness, rye the spice, Tennessee the smoothness."
At our lounge
Neat or in a classic: ask us for a bourbon that fits you, the sweetness makes the entry easy.