Bourbon Style Whiskey

The name “Bourbon” derives from the French Bourbon dynasty, although the precise inspiration is uncertain; contenders include Bourbon County in Kentucky and Bourbon Street in New Orleans, both of which are named after the dynasty. The name “Bourbon” was not applied until the 1850s, and the Kentucky etymology was not advanced until the 1870s.

Bourbon has been distilled since the 18th century. Although bourbon may be made anywhere in the United States, it is strongly associated with the American South and with Kentucky in particular. 

Bourbon was first recognized by the United States Congress as a “distinctive product of the United States” in 1964.

1. Bulleit Bourbon 
2. Jameson Irish Whiskey 
3. Maker’s Mark Bourbon Whisky
4. Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7 Tennessee Whiskey*
5. Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey 

Tennessee Whiskey vs. Bourbon

Tennessee whiskey is a “straight bourbon whiskey” authorized to be produced only in the state of Tennessee. Straight bourbon whiskey is defined by the U.S. government as whiskey that contains at least 51% corn, and distilled from fermented (malted or un-malted) grain mash into a concentration not exceeding 80% alcohol by volume. It also must be aged in new charred oak barrels for at least two years.

Jack Daniel’s Secret Slave Recipe is No Longer a Secret.

The world loves the Jack Daniel’s brand, but did you know it was a Black man, by the name of Nathan “Nearest” Green, who created the recipe. Green taught Jack Daniel an ancient African technique that filtered liquor through a charcoal mellowing system. It is this hidden technique and more that gives Jack Daniel’s its rich flavor and taste