Bourbon Whiskey
Bourbon whiskey that is made of at least 51% corn or maize mixed with wheat, rye, or malted barley. Only whiskey made in the United States can be referred to as Bourbon Whiskey. It was first produced in Bourbon County Kentucky, but Bourbon is produced all over the United States.
Bourbon Whiskey is usually aged in new, charred, white oak barrels for at least two years. It is usually bottled at 80-100 proof. By law, bourbon cannot be distilled at a proof higher than 160. Distilled water is the only substance that can be added to bourbon. It is added to adjust the proof of the whiskey.
Straight Bourbon Whiskey is made with the sour mash process. It is similar to the method used to make sourdough bread. “Feed Mash†is mash that has already had it’s alcohol removed from a fermentation process. It is named feed mash because it is used as an ingredient in livestock feed. In the sour mash process, a little bit of feed mash is added to the new batch during fermentation. This introduces acid that controls bacteria.
There are several mixed drinks that contain bourbon. An Old Fashioned is made with bourbon, sugar syrup, and bitters. Some recipes also call for club soda, orange slices, and a maraschino cherry garnish. A whiskey sour contains bourbon whiskey, sugar syrup, and lemon juice. A Manhattan is made with whiskey, bitters, and sweet vermouth. Bourbon whiskey is one of several kinds of whiskey that can be used in a Manhattan.
The mint julep is probably the best known bourbon whiskey cocktail. Mint leaves, sugar cubes, bourbon, and ice are shaken together to make this refreshing drink. The substance is then strained into a collins glass with ice cubes. The mint julep is usually associated with the Kentucky Derby.