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Bourbon for Beginners |
Broaden your love for spirits with a selection of bourbon that hits all the right notes. From a spicy aroma to a rich, balanced finish, bourbon delivers a delightful medley for your senses. This spirit is available from a wide variety of brands. How can you narrow down all the choices on the shelf? Here, Joe Canal's explores what makes bourbon unique and how to find the best varieties for you. Bourbon 101Before diving into the details, start by speaking the language of bourbon. Here are some common terms you'll need to know before heading to the liquor store:
What Makes Bourbon Different Than Whiskey?While all bourbon is technically whiskey, not all whiskey can be called bourbon. The difference lies in the production process. For your favorite spirit to be classified as bourbon, it must meet the rigorous standards outlined below: Location RequirementsThis type of whiskey must be produced in the United States. While whiskey is found across the globe, bourbon is "America's Native Spirit" per Congress in 1964. The word "bourbon" can't be used to describe any whiskey or whiskey-based distilled spirit produced outside the USA. Mash Bill RequirementsThe mash bill must contain at least 51% corn. Many distilleries go higher and add rye, wheat, and malted barley into the mix, but it must meet the minimum requirement for corn content to be called bourbon. Proof RequirementsBourbon must be distilled at a maximum of 160 proof, barreled at no more than 125 proof, and bottled at a minimum of 80 proof. Alcohol content may vary depending on the recipe, but it needs to meet these minimums and maximums throughout the process. Barreling RequirementsEach batch of bourbon must age in new, charred white oak barrels. While highly specific, this requirement yields great-tasting results. Each batch gets a fresh barrel that contributes to the rich flavor bourbon connoisseurs have come to know and love. Aging RequirementsThere is no minimum for the length of time bourbon has to age. However, it must be aged for at least 2 years to be classified as "straight bourbon." Choosing the Right Bourbon for YouNeat or on the rocks, finding the bourbon that suits your taste may take several sips. Many beginners start with a sweeter, wheated bourbon before moving onto traditional varieties with a little more kick. Be sure to fully savor the color, aroma, taste, and finish of each glass you try:
Find Your New Favorite Bourbon at Joe Canal'sThe more you know about bourbon, the easier it is to make your choice at the liquor store. For more information on this and other spirits, contact Joe Canal’s at our Lawrenceville, NJ location or Woodbridge, NJ location today. |
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