Bourbon has been around for hundreds of years, but it’s definitely been enjoying a renaissance of sorts. There has been a surge in popularity, with some distilleries even struggling to keep up with the demand. That’s why today, on National Bourbon Day, we’ve got a lot to celebrate.
First things first: Let’s clarify the difference between bourbon and whiskey, shall we?
Think back to high school geometry class where we learned that all squares are rectangles, but not all rectangles are squares. Same thing goes for bourbon and whiskey; all bourbons are whiskey, but not all whiskeys are bourbon. It probably makes your brain hurt, but it’s not too hard to understand – whiskeys are made from a fermented mash of grain (usually corn, rye, barley or wheat), but bourbon has to be made of at least 51% corn as part of its grain mash.
Some other facts include:
- Whiskey can age in re-used barrels. By law, bourbon must use new charred American white oak barrels.
- It can’t say “bourbon” on the label if it’s not distilled in the United States. (Go U.S.A.)
- It has to be distilled at less than 160 proof.
- Must be aged for a minimum of two years.
- Can’t have any additives except water.
Keeping all of the rules in mind, if you’re going to celebrate National Bourbon Day properly, you need a solid bottle of bourbon (duh). Some brands to keep an eye out for as you browse the liquor store shelves are:
- Bulleit Bourbon
- Jim Beam
- Old Pogue Bourbon
- Buffalo Trace
- Wild Turkey Bourbon
Serious bourbon drinkers may argue that the only way to drink bourbon is straight, but if you’re really more of a cocktail person or want to celebrate with someone who is, try making this light summer bourbon cocktail:
- Fill a glass with ice
- Add 3 tablespoons of bourbon and 2 tablespoons of fresh orange juice
- Stir in 1/2 cup tonic water
- Garnish with a strip of the orange peel
However you choose to celebrate, we hope you have a great National Bourbon Day. (We know we will.)