Bourbon’s come a long way from its humble beginnings a couple hundred years ago. With few quality standards and lots of dodgy people selling toxic liquid as bourbon, the spirit’s early incarnation was a risky potion. Thankfully, we live in a golden age of bourbon, and there’s never been a better time to explore.
Here are a few tips to get you started from John Brockman, the bourbon manager at Colonial Wines & Spirits.
Price: The old saying “you get what you pay for” doesn’t always prove true with bourbon. While there are very high-dollar bottles for sale that connoisseurs swear by, there are many very good bourbons that cost less than $40. They make great cocktails or can be enjoyed straight.
Proof: This is a way of measuring alcoholic content. Dividing the proof by two gives the percentage. If a bottle of bourbon is 80 proof, it weighs in at 40% alcohol. The numbers climb as the bourbon gets stronger and more flavorful.
Age: Straight bourbon is aged no less than two years and bottled in bond at least four years. Most bourbon carries its age on the label, with longer aging bringing deeper and more nuanced flavor.
Choice: As you start the bourbon experience, keep in mind that what’s popular or hot right now may not be to your liking. Experiment with this American spirit. Ask to sample a bottle before buying it or visit a bar that carries what you want to try. Taste it in a cocktail or on the rocks. There’s no wrong way to enjoy bourbon, and you’re about to find out why it’s so appealing.
A good place to start sipping is with a crowd-pleasing recipe.
Classic Old Fashioned
Serves: 8
- 2 cups bourbon
- 1/2 cup simple syrup
- 12-16 dashes bitters
- 1/3 cup water
- fresh oranges for garnish
Pour all ingredients into a pitcher and stir until blended. Serve in rocks glasses over ice, garnished with an orange slice.