The five requirements for Bourbon are:
- Produced in the U.S.
- Made from at least 51% corn
- Distilled at no higher than 160 proof
- Put into a barrel at no higher than 125 proof
- Aged in a new, charred oak container.
Contrary to many enthusiasts, bourbon can be made outside of the state of Kentucky. Maine Bourbon, Nevada Bourbon, North Carolina Bourbon. It’s all good. Let’s tip our hat to Kentucky though, the blue grass state makes some great juice!
There also is no aging requirement for bourbon. A Pappy Van Winkle 15 Minute Bourbon? Totally possible. It would taste like something fierce and could knock ole’ Pappy on his ass so its aged. The aging process in oak is where the good flavors are drawn out of the container.
The final requirement is a new charred, oak container. Barrels have many benefits but a charred oak cube, globe, or an elongated dodecahedron (*Boom! Shot of 7th Grade Math Project knowledge) will also work just fine.
There also is no aging requirement for bourbon. A Pappy Van Winkle 15 Minute Bourbon? Totally possible. It would taste like something fierce and could knock ole’ Pappy on his ass so its aged. The aging process in oak is where the good flavors are drawn out of the container.
The final requirement is a new charred, oak container. Barrels have many benefits but a charred oak cube, globe, or an elongated dodecahedron (*Boom! Shot of 7th Grade Math Project knowledge) will also work just fine.
Boom! Another shot of knowledge!