Transitioning from a young whiskey drinker to a more sophisticated palate can be daunting. It’s possible that you’re not sure what you should be looking for in a Bourbon, how to drink it, or even what glass to use.
So, how to drink Bourbon like a man?
Take your time. Sipping slowly will help you enjoy the drink’s flavor and prevent you from getting too intoxicated too quickly. Pay attention to the quality of the Bourbon you’re drinking, and find one that you particularly enjoy. And finally, don’t be afraid to experiment.
This article will teach you about Bourbon, from its history and types to the endless ways to enjoy this American classic like a man.
The History of Bourbon
Bourbon’s beginnings were in the 18th century. First made in the American Colonies, the first distillery opened in 1753 in Virginia. Bourbon County, Kentucky, was founded in 1785, where the word “Bourbon” originated.
The area was noted for its whiskey-making corn. Bourbon County became a Bourbon hub; thus, the name persisted.
Bourbon was famous throughout the 19th century, and several distilleries opened. The Civil War destroyed numerous distilleries, reducing production. In the early 1900s, Bourbon production was back in full swing.
Many Bourbon distilleries closed during Prohibition. However, after Prohibition was lifted in 1933, Bourbon production rose. Each year, millions of barrels of Bourbon are manufactured. This American whiskey has gone a long way and isn’t slowing down.
Different Types of Bourbon
There are many different types of Bourbon, each with its unique flavor profile. However, the most common type of Bourbon is Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey. This whiskey is made entirely from corn and is aged in new, charred oak barrels for at least four years.
Another popular type of Bourbon is Tennessee whiskey. This whiskey is made in a similar way to Kentucky Bourbon, but it is filtered through charcoal before being aged. This process gives the whiskey a unique flavor that many people enjoy.
There are also blended Bourbons made from a mixture of straight Bourbons. These whiskeys are typically less expensive than their single-barrel counterparts and are often used in cocktails.
How To Drink Bourbon Like a Man
There are a few schools of thought when it comes to drinking Bourbon.
Some people believe the best way to enjoy this whiskey is on the rocks, with a few ice cubes to help mellow out the flavors. Others prefer to drink it neat, allowing the full force of the alcohol to hit them all at once.
To enjoy Bourbon like a man, finding a way that works for you is essential. The following are a few tips to help you get started.
1. Take Your Time
Bourbon is meant to be savored, not gulped down. Sipping slowly will help you enjoy the flavor of the whiskey and prevent you from getting too intoxicated too quickly. It’s important to savor the flavor of the whiskey and pay attention to the different notes you taste.
2. Pay Attention to Quality
Not all Bourbons are created equal, so you must find a good quality whiskey you enjoy drinking. There are many different brands of Bourbon, so it’s worth trying a few different ones to see which you like best.
3. Choose the Right Glass
The glass you drink your Bourbon in can also affect the taste. Therefore, it’s essential to find a glass that enhances the flavor of the whiskey and shows off the color. A rock glass is a traditional way to serve Bourbon, but any glass will do. A tulip glass is also a good option for Bourbon, as it allows you to smell the whiskey while you’re drinking it.
4. Pay Attention to the Proof
The higher the proof, the more alcohol content the Bourbon has. If you’re not used to drinking straight Bourbon, it’s best to start with a lower-proof Bourbon and work your way up.
5. Add a Little Water
Adding a few drops of water to your Bourbon can help open up the flavor and make it easier to drink. Just be careful not to add too much, or you’ll end up with watered-down whiskey. You don’t want to mask the flavor of the Bourbon; you just want to enhance it.
6. Drink It at Room Temperature
Serving your Bourbon at room temperature will help bring out the different flavors in the whiskey.
7. Try It in a Cocktail
Bourbon cocktails are a great way to enjoy the flavor of the whiskey without drinking it straight. There are endless possibilities when mixing Bourbon, so get creative and experiment until you find a drink you love. Old Fashioned and Manhattans are two classic Bourbon cocktails that are worth trying.
When adding water to your Bourbon, use distilled or filtered water. This will help prevent the water from giving the whiskey a strange flavor.
Takeaway
Bourbon is whiskey from corn and aged in new, charred oak barrels. There are many different types of Bourbon, and the best way to drink it is up to personal preference.
When drinking Bourbon, taking your time and savoring the flavor is essential. Pay attention to the quality of the whiskey, and choose a glass that enhances the flavor. You can also try mixing Bourbon into cocktails for a unique twist on the classic drinks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can drink Bourbon on an empty stomach. However, it’s essential to be aware that straight whiskey can be hard on your stomach if you’re not used to drinking it. Therefore, starting with a lower-proof Bourbon is best and working your way up if you’re drinking on an empty stomach.
The length of time that Bourbon needs to age depends on the type of Bourbon. For example, straight Bourbon must be aged for at least two years, while single barrel Bourbon must be aged for at least four years.
Yes, you can drink Bourbon on the rocks. The ice will help keep the drink cold and dilute it slightly, making it more enjoyable to drink. Just be careful not to add too much ice, or you’ll end up with watered-down whiskey.
