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Throughout East Asia, sake is often the drink of choice.
When you move further west, vodka becomes king.
But once you cross the Atlantic, youll land in the USA.
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And in America, one spirit reigns supreme:Bourbon.
What Makes a Good Bourbon?
In truth, straight bourbon whiskey is the only true American liquor.
One reason is corn, due to its cultivation in the Americas.
Of course that same crop is the reason westerners have so much high fructose corn syrup.
And corn is the necessary ingredient that changes it from straight whiskey.
The name comes from the French Dynasty, which brought over a vast culture.
A culture which still lingers in the Southern States.
But what matters is that its delicious.
So long as you get the right brand at the right price.
Then it slides into sweet caramel and toffee.
Harper Straight
Long absent from sale on the shores of the United States, I.W.
has returned with both an NAS (No Age Statement) version and one with a dedicated 15-year maturity.
Both are 2+2 simplistic, beginning with corky sweetness that is shot through with vanilla and blond oak.
Low proof and basic, its a gentler choice for new sippers.
What you end up with is a uniquely flavorful bourbon with a lot of character.
It is also made entirely of corn, which is a rare find in the bourbon field.
Its also aged in 3 gallon barrels, which is far smaller than the 53 gallon casks typically used.
All while black pepper, and cinnamon dance in the background.
Theres a reason Elijah Craig Barrel Proof is one of the top bourbons of 2021. image via via modernthirst.com
10.
Rabbit Hole Bourbon
Are you ready to go down a rabbit hole of bourbon deliciousness?
Because thats quite literally the case when you pour from a bottle of Rabbit Hole Cavehill Bourbon.
Prepare to be pleasantly taken by the sweet, yet spicy, aroma.
All finishing up with a hot finish strong in vanilla.
Its the lingering sweetness that seals the deal.
Sticky flowers helps bind this together, creating a cohesive whole that youll miss when its away.
13.Black Maple Hill 16-Year-Old Small Batch
Peppery and intense with hints of toast with ample depth.
Along with welcome caramel notes.
Of course, finding a bottle of this can be quite a challenge.
But a lifetime quest worthy of your devotion.
Each year its a jam and bread delight thats moms home-cooking mixed with dads secret medicine stash.
Splash this with a little water to release the grassy fields and summertime blues hidden in every bottle.
Sadly, it comes in smaller bottles as a nod to prohibition that looks more like a cash grab.
The sweetness of the Armagnac and corn blend well with the rich, oaky flavor bourbon is known for.
Even with the added sweetness, its never cloying.
When you first take in the aroma, youll enjoy bright floral tones.
Once you take a sip, youll taste apricot, espresso, and cinnamon.
But the finish is what will keep you coming back for more.
And award winning heat at that.
When you first taste Blue Run 14 Year, youll notice its sweetness.
Then youll be inundated with notes of French toast, pepper, and cherries.
A sweet and savory melange of vibrant flavors with a smooth caramel finish.
Absolute Top Shelf Bourbon
Consider these aspirational bourbons.
Theyre wildly expensive, but can make for an event unto themselves.
Pure flex if you have thesestocked in your home bar.
Here is the absolute best bourbon money can buy:
19.E.
The flavor is undeniably traditional, leaning heavily on sweets like cherry and a bubblegum nose.
Rye shows up with oak to finish it off with a controlled burn.
Either way, you oughta give this a shot, if only tojoin the conversation.
Is Bourbon Only Made in USA?
As of 1964, bourbon became the native spirit of the United States.
Whats the Difference Between Whiskey and Bourbon?
While all bourbon falls into the whiskey category, not all whiskeys can be bourbon.
However, theres the factor of having 51% of corn that makes all the difference.
Then, theres ABV.
For whiskey to be bourbon it cant fall under or go above 80 proof (40 ABV).
Are There Different Types of Bourbon?
Short answer: Yes.
There are several distinct styles of bourbon.
Can You Make Cocktails With Bourbon?
Or just stick with someeasy mixed drinks.But for high quality bourbon, we suggest you sample your wares neat.
What Is the Difference Between Bottom, Mid, and Top Shelf Bourbon?
Well, a lot of the differences have to do with the quality of ingredients.
Top shelf bourbon often uses higher quality ingredients.
Plus theres the allure of finding that rare bottle.
And when scarcity combines with quality, you get a greatly sought after product deserving of the highest shelf.
Best Bourbons: Thirsty for More?
confirm to let us know what you think in the comment section!
