Bourbon Purity Law

Bourbon can be served with a mixer, on the rocks or neat.

There is a common, if incorrect, myth that bourbon is not bourbon unless it is produced in Kentucky. Although Kentucky is strongly associated with bourbon consumption, it does not have a monopoly. However, there are some other guidelines that outline what is and isn't bourbon.

Whiskey

The oak container may be new, used, charred or toasted.

To be sold as whiskey, a spirit must be made from grain and distilled at less than 190 proof (i.e., 95 percent alcohol by volume, also called ABV). It must also be stored in an oak container, although the law says nothing about the type of container or proof when the spirit enters the container.

Bourbon Whiskey

For a spirit to be sold as bourbon whiskey, the mash from which it was distilled must have been at least 51 percent corn. The distillation proof must be less than 160 proof, or 80 percent ABV, and the proof upon entering the oak barrel must be less than 125 proof, or 62.5 percent ABV. Also, the oak barrels must be new and charred.

Straight Bourbon Whiskey

The regulations for straight bourbon whiskey are exactly the same as those for bourbon whiskey, except that straight bourbon whiskey must have spent at least two years in the oak container.

References

• What Does John Know: Guest blog: Chuck Cowdry on those confusing bourbon regulations