If you have ever had a glass of bourbon, it is highly likely it was a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. How so? 95% of all bourbon produced comes from the Bluegrass state.
Wow! So, what is the difference between Kentucky Straight Bourbon and regular Bourbon?
Let’s dive into it…
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey has all the requirements of bourbon: Made in the U.S, distilled at <= 160 proof, barreled at <= 125 proof, aged in new, charred oak containers, bottled at >= 80 proof.
With the additional requirements: it must be produced and aged at least 1 year in the state of Kentucky.
The majority of all labels from Kentucky produce bourbon that could be labeled “Kentucky Straight Bourbon.” Whether they do or don’t is really a marketing preference. All bourbon produced and aged at least a year in the state could be labeled a Kentucky Straight Bourbon. Pappy Van Winkle? Yep…check the label. It’s in a font not quite as noticeable as 10, 12, 15, 20, 23 years.
All of the popular Kentucky labels age at least a year…most at least 4 years! Examples of Kentucky Straight Bourbons: Woodford Reserve, Jim Beam, Baker’s, Knob Creek, Buffalo Trace, Heaven Hill, Wild Turkey, Makers Mark….or any respectable bourbon in Kentucky! All great bourbon in the U.S. does not come from Kentucky, but the State certainly carries the highest standard for overall quality product!
Boom! Another shot of knowledge!