Newbie’s Guide to Appreciating Bourbon Whiskey

Bourbon is the final word American spirit, considering the barrel-aged distilled spirit was initially produced in an area known as Bourbon County, Kentucky. To fulfill the legal definition of bourbon, it have to be produced within the United States, have to be created with not less than 51% corn, and aged in new oak barrels. There are two types of bourbon whiskeys—straight and blended. Straight bourbon means that the bourbon has been aged for at least 2 years, and has no other coloring or flavoring added. Blended bourbon whiskey can contain different flavoring or spirits, but should be at the least 51% straight bourbon.

The best way to Drink Bourbon: Straight or Blended

If you wish to admire bourbon whiskey on its own, there are typically two 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. If you happen to go this route, you might appreciate drinking your bourbon in a brandy snifter. The shape of the glass will assist concentrate the aroma. It is best to not use brandy snifters for high proof bourbons.

For those who’re a beginner, you may want to attempt bourbon whiskey on the rocks, or with a number of cubes of ice. Pour your self a finger or two of whiskey over ice. A finger is an informal measure, and is generally considered to be about three quarters of an inch or so.

Basic Bourbon Whiskey Cocktails

Bourbon works really well in cocktails. From the Mint Julep to the Manhattan, the bourbon cocktail is sophisticated, strong, and flavorful. You need to use any model of bourbon you prefer—I’ve lately 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 choice for the Kentucky Derby for almost a century. Although the earliest cocktails used rum or rye whiskey, bourbon has turn out to be the spirit of alternative for this candy and simple cocktail.

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

4 cups bourbon

2 bunches recent spearmint

1 cup distilled water

1 cup granulated sugar

Powdered sugar

The Old Fashioned

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

This recipe keeps it easy and lets the bourbon shine. You will 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 case you fancy your self a devotee of the Mad Men-period, 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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