First things first, let’s start with the basics. For a spirit to be called bourbon, it should contain at least 51 per cent corn, and the rest could be rye, wheat or malted barley. But there should be no added coloring, additives or flavoring in the drink, just plain water.
Another thing is that it should be aged in charred oak barrels for no less than two years. Contrary to popular belief, it does not have to be made in Kentucky.
When talking about whisky, bourbons are mostly compared to scotch and rye. There are plenty of good bourbon brands in the market. Some of the most notable brands like Four Roses, Maker’s Mark and Jim Beam taste just as good when consumed neat as they do in cocktail mixes like Mint Julep and Old Fashioned.
What is This Drink?
This drink is a kind of whiskey, like how Cabernet Sauvignon is a type of wine. Although it should be made of corn, whisky can be made from rye, wheat, barley or corn. Whisky’s distillation should be about 190 proof, which is 30 proof points higher than this drink.
How to Drink It?
Like any other liquor, there is an opportunity to take this drink as simple as it is or as creative as cocktails. Some of which are as follows:
- Straight or “Neat”
Let the Spirit shine on its own; serve it neat, which means serving the drink without water, ice or whatsoever. You can also serve it straight, which means shaken or stirred with ice, then strained. If you want to experience its natural flavour, this is the best way to go. The best drinking vessel to use for this drink is a Glencairn glass. Its unique shape delivers both function and form, giving you that ultimate palatable experience.
- On the Rocks
Serving it over ice can be a refreshing method to take this drink. If you are about to take it the first time or is still getting used to its strong flavours, ice will slightly tone down its richness. Use bigger ice cubes to serve the drink as they melt much slower, so your drink is less watered down than regular ice cubes. Are you wondering about the best glass to serve it? It’s an old-fashioned whisky glass!
- Infused with Water
Some drinkers believe that adding a small amount of water to a serving of this drink helps release the flavour. Of course, the water will dilute the Spirit a bit but also softens the alcohol punch. A simple glass with a wide brim, ideal for nosing, is a safe choice for taking it with water.
- Mixes
Bourbon can be enjoyed well by making cocktails with it. If you try to search it up, one of the most popular ones is the Mint Julep cocktail, which is made of bourbon, mint and some simple syrup. Other cocktail mixes made are Old-Fashioned and Manhattan; both still popular up to this time for all the right reasons.
Bourbon is unique in its own way. But remember, whether you like to drink it on the rocks, neat or mixed and made into cocktails, bourbon, like any other Spirits, should be taken moderately and responsibly.
Source: Platodata
