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You have just bought an incredible Whiskey Barrel Cabinet from Red Fox Reclaiming, and you aren't exactly the bourbon connoisseur that some of your friends, co-workers, or family members seem to be. You need to put a lot of bottles inside this amazing repurposed barrel, and stock up. No sweat, I’ve got your back! It can be confusing looking at all the choices at the liquor agency or local store. Do you really need to spend top dollar, what do all the malts, grains, years, barrel, region, etc. mean? Obvoiusly, you can just scout out the local bar, and pay for a flight to sample a wide variety of brands. But, before you go blowing your hard-earned paycheck, here is a quick breakdown, of what some of the distinguishing properties of the historical libation, are all about.
Whiskey is a broad category of distilled alcoholic beverages made from fermented grain mash, which can include barley, corn, rye, and wheat. The essential characteristics of whiskey depend on its ingredients, distillation process, and aging.
Bourbon, on the other hand, is a specific type of whiskey that must adhere to strict regulations defined by U.S. law. To be classified as bourbon, the spirit must be made from at least 51% corn, distilled to no more than 160 proof, and aged in new charred oak barrels. Additionally, it cannot contain any additives or flavoring agents.
Deviations Within Each Category:
Whiskey:
1. Scotch Whisky: Made primarily in Scotland with malted barley; it typically has a smoky flavor due to the use of peat in the malting process.
2. Irish Whiskey: Generally smoother and triple-distilled, it's often made from a mix of malted and unmalted barley.
3. Rye Whiskey: Must contain at least 51% rye grain, which imparts a spicier flavor compared to other whiskies.
4. Tennessee Whiskey: Similar to bourbon but must be produced in Tennessee and filtered through charcoal before aging, giving it a smoother profile.
Bourbon:
1. Straight Bourbon: Aged for a minimum of two years; if aged less than four years, it must specify the age on the label.
2. Small Batch Bourbon: Made from a limited number of barrels, often resulting in unique flavors and profiles; the exact number of barrels can vary by distiller.
3. Single Barrel Bourbon: Bottled from a single barrel, offering distinct flavors that reflect the characteristics of that particular barrel.
4. Wheated Bourbon: Uses wheat as the secondary grain instead of rye, resulting in a softer and sweeter flavor profile.
Okay. You’ve got an understanding about what whiskey is, and what bourbon is. What are the different ways that you are supposed to drink this heavenly nectar? Experiencing the underlying flavors in whiskey and bourbon can be greatly enhanced by using the right glassware and managing the temperature with ice. Here are some key considerations:
1. Glassware:
- Glencairn Glass: This is specifically designed for whiskey tasting. The shape concentrates the aromas at the top, allowing you to savor the complex scents before taking a sip. The wide bowl also lets you appreciate the color and clarity of the whiskey.
- Rocks Glass: Ideal for serving whiskey on the rocks, this glass allows for easy sipping and has a sturdy base. When whiskey is poured over ice, the flavors can mellow, making it smoother and more approachable for those new to whiskey.
- Tulip Glass: Similar to the Glencairn, the tulip shape enhances the nose of the whiskey while also allowing for a more substantial sip. This glass is perfect for appreciating the finer notes in a high-quality bourbon.
Here is a great starter set for the basic essentials! https://amzn.to/3W4h0bl

2. Ice:
- On the Rocks: Adding ice to whiskey can alter its flavor profile. As the ice melts, it dilutes the whiskey slightly, which can help to open up the flavors and aromas, making them more accessible.
- Whiskey Stones: These are a great alternative to traditional ice. They chill the drink without diluting it, allowing you to experience the full intensity of the whiskey's flavors.
- Large Ice Cubes: Using larger ice cubes slows the melting process, providing a gradual dilution. This allows you to enjoy the whiskey's evolving flavors over time without overwhelming the palate. I added a link below for a great whiskey ice mold for either round or cube fans.

I’ve always preferred the balls over the cubes, because I’ve heard they have more surface area. This makes more ice-to-bourbon contact ratio. But, the cubes have more of a “mixing” ability because they have corners and edges to swirl the ingredients in your glass.
By selecting the right glassware and managing ice, you can significantly enhance your whiskey and bourbon tasting experience, allowing the nuances of flavor to shine through.
Whiskey and bourbon cocktails are beloved for their rich flavors and versatility. Here are some of the most popular whiskey and bourbon cocktails, along with recommendations for the best types of spirits to use:
1. Old Fashioned: A classic cocktail made with whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus. For a great Old Fashioned, use a high-quality bourbon like Buffalo Trace or a rye whiskey like Bulleit Rye.
2. Whiskey Sour: This refreshing cocktail combines whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup. For the best results, use a smooth bourbon like Maker's Mark or a blended whiskey like Crown Royal.
3. Manhattan: A sophisticated mix of whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, typically garnished with a cherry. A premium rye whiskey such as Woodford Reserve Rye or a high-proof bourbon like Knob Creek is ideal for this cocktail.
4. Mint Julep: A refreshing Southern classic made with bourbon, fresh mint, sugar, and crushed ice. Use a quality bourbon like Woodford Reserve or Four Roses for a delicious Mint Julep.
5. Boulevardier: Similar to a Negroni, this cocktail consists of bourbon (or rye), sweet vermouth, and Campari. A rich bourbon such as Eagle Rare or a high-rye bourbon like High West Bourye will elevate this drink.
When selecting whiskey or bourbon for cocktails, look for expressions that balance sweetness and spice, with enough character to shine through the mixers.
Now, you have dipped your toes into the fascinating, history-rich world of bourbon whiskey. Get out and mingle with fellow enthusiasts, to share experiences and make lasting memories. Or, maybe sometimes the memories will be very foggy the next morning!