Bourbon stands out as more than just a popular American spirit. Congress declared it “a distinctive product of the United States” in 1964, and strict legal requirements distinguish it from other whiskeys. Kentucky produces about 95% of the world’s bourbon supply. The state currently ages more than 7.5 million barrels—that’s nearly 1.75 barrels for every Kentucky resident. Legal bourbon requirements demand specific standards. The spirit must contain at least 51% corn in its mash bill, though most producers use closer to 70%. American distilleries must produce bourbon exclusively within U.S. borders and age it in new, charred oak barrels. The…
What Makes Bourbon Bourbon



















