Bourbon is a type of American Whiskey. The name originally derives from French Bourbon Dynasty and either Bourbon County, KY, or Bourbon Street in New Orleans which were both named after it. Bourbon can be produced anywhere in the United States but is primarily produced in Kentucky. In 1964, Bourbon was recognized by the United States Congress to be a distinctive product of the United States consisting of at least 51% corn and aged in charred oak barrels.
It is believed that the Scots, English, Welsh, Irish, and Germans in the late 18th century as they immigrated to Kentucky and took up residency on the farms. The limestone water in Kentucky distinguishes the bourbon produced here. The industry makes billions of dollars every year in sales and tours. Woodford, Makers Mark, Elijah Craig distilleries have been in operation for decades. Several distilleries have recently opened in the recent years including Castle and Key and Glens Creek Distillery in the Frankfort, KY area. There are several others and I suggest taking part in the bourbon tours available in Kentucky.
I will be discussing Kentucky bourbon and providing a list in Part 2. This concludes Part 1 for now.
