Cheers to learning even more about bourbon!

Bourbon, America’s native spirit, has a rich history and a distinctive character that sets it apart from other types of whiskey. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon enthusiast or a curious newcomer, here are 13 fun facts about bourbon that might surprise you:

1. Bourbon Must Be Made in America

While many associate bourbon with Kentucky, it can technically be made anywhere in the United States. However, to be legally called bourbon, it must be produced within the country. Kentucky still produces about 95% of the world’s bourbon.

2. No Additives Allowed

Unlike some other spirits, bourbon cannot contain any additives, including colorings or flavorings. The flavors in bourbon must come solely from the grains, yeast, fermentation, distillation, and the aging process in the new charred white oak barrels.

3. Bottled in Bond

“Bottled in Bond” is a term you might see on some bourbon labels. This indicates that the bourbon was made in one distillation season, by one distiller at one distillery, and aged in a federally bonded warehouse for at least four years. It must be bottled at 100 proof (50% alcohol by volume).


4. Bourbon and Prohibition

During Prohibition (1920-1933), the production and sale of alcoholic beverages were banned in the United States. However, bourbon could still be legally produced and sold for medicinal purposes. Doctors could prescribe “medicinal whiskey,” and patients could purchase it at pharmacies, with many prescriptions filled by what is now known as Walgreens.


5. The Origin of the Name “Bourbon”

The exact origin of the name “Bourbon” is debated, but it’s commonly believed to be named after Bourbon County in Kentucky, which itself was named after the French Bourbon dynasty. Early settlers in the area included many French expatriates, and the name stuck.


6. Whiskey Rebellion

In the late 18th century, the U.S. government imposed a tax on distilled spirits, leading to the Whiskey Rebellion in 1794. Many whiskey producers fled west to Kentucky to avoid the tax, contributing to the state’s rich bourbon heritage.


7. Corn is King

For a whiskey to be classified as bourbon, it must be made from at least 51% corn. This high corn content gives bourbon its distinctive sweetness compared to other whiskeys.


8. New Charred White Oak Barrels

Bourbon must be aged in new, charred white oak barrels. This requirement imparts the rich color and complex flavors that bourbon is known for. After aging, these barrels are often used to age other spirits, such as Scotch, Irish whisky, beer and rum.


9. Age Matters (Sometimes)

There’s no minimum aging period for bourbon, but to be labeled as “straight bourbon,” it must be aged for at least two years. If it’s aged less than four years, the bottle must state the age. Many high-quality bourbons are aged significantly longer, often between six to twelve years.


10.The Lincoln County Process

Tennessee whiskey, often confused with bourbon, undergoes an additional step called the Lincoln County Process, where the distilled spirit is filtered through maple charcoal before aging. While technically similar to bourbon, this process gives Tennessee whiskey a unique smoothness.


11.Heaven Hill Fire of 1996

In November 1996, a devastating fire destroyed Heaven Hill Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky. Despite losing a significant portion of their facilities and stock, the distillery quickly rebuilt and continued production, maintaining its reputation as one of the largest bourbon producers.


12.The Angel’s Share

During the aging process, some of the bourbon evaporates through the barrel walls. This evaporated portion is whimsically referred to as “the angel’s share.” In Kentucky’s humid climate, the angel’s share can account for up to 4% of the barrel’s contents each year.

13. White Dog

The clear, unaged spirit that comes straight from the still is called “white dog” or “new make.” This spirit is quite strong and has a sharp taste, which mellows out and develops complex flavors as it ages in charred white oak barrels.


Bourbon’s rich history, strict production requirements, and unique aging processes contribute to its character and enduring popularity. Whether you’re sipping it neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, knowing these fun facts can enhance your appreciation of this iconic American spirit. So next time you pour a glass, remember the fascinating journey that bourbon takes from grain to bottle!