Beginner’s Guide to Appreciating Bourbon Whiskey

Bourbon is the last word American spirit, considering the barrel-aged distilled spirit was originally produced in an space known as Bourbon County, Kentucky. To satisfy the legal definition of bourbon, it should be produced within the United States, have to be created with no less than 51% corn, and aged in new oak barrels. There are two types of bourbon whiskeys—straight and blended. Straight bourbon implies that the bourbon has been aged for no less than 2 years, and has no different coloring or flavoring added. Blended bourbon whiskey can contain different flavoring or spirits, but have to be at the very least fifty one% straight bourbon.

The way to Drink Bourbon: Straight or Blended

If you want to recognize bourbon whiskey on its own, there are typically ways to do it. Purists like to drink it neat, which signifies that the bourbon is at room temperature, and without ice. Some like to add just a few drops of water to the whiskey, to “open up” the aroma of the bourbon. Should you go this route, chances are you’ll admire drinking your bourbon in a brandy snifter. The form of the glass will help concentrate the aroma. It’s best to not use brandy snifters for high proof bourbons.

When you’re a beginner, you would possibly want to strive bourbon whiskey on the rocks, or with just a few cubes of ice. Pour your self a finger or two of whiskey over ice. A finger is an informal measure, and is usually considered to be about three quarters of an inch or so.

Classic Bourbon Whiskey Cocktails

Bourbon works really well in cocktails. From the Mint Julep to the Manhattan, the bourbon cocktail is sophisticated, robust, and flavorful. You should utilize any brand of bourbon you prefer—I’ve not too long ago enjoyed the new Wild Turkey 81 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, which was created specifically for mixing cocktails.

Mint Julep

The Mint Julep has been the drink of selection for the Kentucky Derby for nearly a century. Although the earliest cocktails used rum or rye whiskey, bourbon has turn into the spirit of choice for this sweet and simple cocktail.

This recipe yields 10 to 12 servings. You will need:

four cups bourbon

2 bunches contemporary spearmint

1 cup distilled water

1 cup granulated sugar

Powdered sugar

The Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned is created by muddling sugar with bitters, and then adding an alcohol like bourbon. A citrus rind completes the drink.

This recipe keeps it easy and lets the bourbon shine. You may need:

2 ounces whiskey, rye or bourbon

2 dashes Angostura bitters

1 teaspoon water

1 teaspoon sugar

ice cubes

1 lemon twist

1 orange slice

1 maraschino cherry

The Manhattan

In the event you fancy your self a devotee of the Mad Men-era, the Manhattan is for you. It was one of many first cocktails to incorporate vermouth, and it’s rounded out with a dash of bitters.

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