So you think I could live in the bourbon capital and not partake? Actually, I have enjoyed going to different distilleries and tasting different types of bourbon. We started Heaven Hill located in Bardstown, KY. We started at this location because they have a museum attached. I wanted to spend time learning about the history of bourbon before I started tasting.
What is bourbon?
- Made in the United States (it can be made outside of Kentucky)
- Must be minimum 51% corn
- Must be aged in white oak; used only ONCE
- Must be at least 80 proof
- No additives or colors added
Bourbon gets is color from the char from the wood. There is a 1-4 char level. Each distillery chooses how much char is added to each barrel. Bourbon is aged. Depending on the bourbon it can be anywhere from two to twenty plus years. Most bourbon is in the four to six year of aging before it is bottled and sold.
This was my first time drinking bourbon straight. I found that I like it mixed with a little water. My favorite bourbon at Heaven Hill was Elijah Craig.