September is a special month for whiskey lovers and history buffs alike—it's Bourbon Heritage Month! This month-long celebration pays tribute to America’s native spirit, bourbon, a whiskey steeped in tradition, craftsmanship, and regional pride. Whether you're a seasoned bourbon enthusiast or just beginning to explore the world of whiskey, now is the perfect time to appreciate the heritage and complexity of this iconic spirit.
A Brief History of Bourbon
Bourbon has been an integral part of American culture since the 18th century. While the exact origins of bourbon whiskey are debated, it is widely accepted that early settlers in Kentucky began distilling corn-based whiskey using natural limestone-filtered water. Kentucky’s unique climate and fertile soil provided the perfect environment for growing corn, which, by law, makes up at least 51% of bourbon's grain bill. Over the years, bourbon evolved from a regional spirit to a symbol of American craftsmanship.
In 1964, Congress declared bourbon a "distinctive product of the United States," solidifying its place as America's native spirit. Today, bourbon is enjoyed by whiskey aficionados across the globe, celebrated for its bold, diverse flavors and rich history.
What Makes Bourbon Unique?
Several key elements make bourbon stand out from other whiskeys:
-
Mash Bill: Bourbon is made from at least 51% corn, giving it a naturally sweet flavor. The remaining percentage can include rye, barley, and wheat, contributing to its unique profile.
-
Aging: By law, bourbon must be aged in new, charred oak barrels. This aging process imparts rich caramel, vanilla, and smoky notes to the spirit, creating the deep, complex flavors that bourbon is known for.
-
Location: While bourbon can be made anywhere in the U.S., the majority of production occurs in Kentucky, where the climate and water play a significant role in shaping the whiskey's character.
-
Distillation & Bottling: Bourbon must be distilled at no more than 160 proof and entered into barrels at 125 proof or less. It is bottled at a minimum of 80 proof (40% ABV), but many small-batch and cask-strength varieties go much higher, offering more robust and intense flavor experiences.
Craft Bourbon: The Heart of Innovation
As we celebrate Bourbon Heritage Month, it's important to acknowledge the rise of craft distilleries that are reshaping the bourbon landscape. While Kentucky remains the heartland of bourbon, distilleries across the country are producing exceptional small-batch bourbons that push boundaries and showcase regional flair.
Craft bourbon distillers take pride in experimenting with different grain bills, barrel aging techniques, and finishing processes. Whether it's using unique heirloom corn varieties, aging in specialty barrels, or bottling at cask strength, craft bourbon offers a diverse and innovative drinking experience. These modern distillers are blending tradition with creativity, offering whiskey enthusiasts an exciting range of new flavors.
How to Celebrate Bourbon Heritage Month
Whether you're a casual drinker or a devoted bourbon fan, there are plenty of ways to celebrate Bourbon Heritage Month:
-
Discover New Bourbons: Explore a range of craft bourbons from small-batch distilleries or try out different expressions from well-known brands. Each bottle offers a new story and flavor to discover.
-
Visit a Distillery: If you live near a bourbon distillery, take a tour to learn more about the distillation process, meet the people behind the whiskey, and enjoy tastings straight from the source.
-
Host a Bourbon Tasting: Gather friends for a bourbon tasting party. Select a variety of bourbons—ranging from different regions or styles—and take your time savoring the nuanced flavors.
-
Experiment with Cocktails: Bourbon isn't just for sipping neat! Try your hand at classic bourbon cocktails like the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, or a Bourbon Sour. Craft distillers offer bourbons with unique flavor profiles that can add a twist to your favorite cocktail recipes.
-
Learn the History: Dive into bourbon history with books, documentaries, or podcasts. Understanding the roots of this spirit adds depth to your appreciation of each bottle you uncork.
Great American Craft Spirits: Our Bourbon Picks
At Great American Craft Spirits, we're proud to carry a curated selection of premium bourbons that honor the heritage and craftsmanship of this iconic spirit. Some of our must-try bourbons this month include:
Duke Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Meticulously blended to replicate and honor the tasting notes and profile preferred by John Wayne using his original recipe from 1962 and his private collection to guide flavor and aromatics. A proprietorial mash bill of predominately American bent corn with additions of rye with sixth row barley. Distilled and aged in Kentucky the old fashioned way, aged in heavily charred new and hand built American Oak barrels. Aged a minimum of 5 years in barrels hand selected for perfection.
Shop Duke Bourbon here.
Willie's Distillery Bighorn Bourbon
The mighty Bighorn Ram is known for its toughness and strength. This bourbon pays homage to that spirit, with a smooth, mellow flavor that's perfect on the rocks or in your favorite whiskey cocktail. Named for the Rocky Mountain Bighorn Ram, this Kentucky bourbon is sure to become your go-to drink.
Shop Willie's Bighorn Bourbon here.
Horse Soldier Reserve Barrel Strength Bourbon
Horse Soldier Reserve Barrel Strength Bourbon Whiskey is a uniquely complex “wheated” bourbon that has matured for 6-8 years in new American oak barrels. The soft red winter wheat in our recipe provides intriguing depth and complexity to this ultimate American spirit. Our barrel strength offering is uncut and non-chill filtered.
Shop Horse Soldier Reserve Barrel Strength Bourbon here.
There's more where that came from! Take a look at our top 25 bourbons here!
Raise a Glass to Bourbon Heritage Month!
As we celebrate Bourbon Heritage Month, let’s take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship, history, and flavor that make bourbon such a beloved spirit. Whether you're enjoying a pour of your favorite bourbon neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, remember that each sip is a tribute to centuries of tradition and innovation. Cheers to bourbon and the people who make it!