How to Drink Bourbon for Beginners

Updated August 2026.

A neat sip is bar method, not a TTB class. Bourbon has to be at least 51% corn, distilled at or under 160 proof, entered in new charred oak at or under 125, bottled at 40% or more. Typical US 40% 100 proof is not bottled-in-bond by itself.

Related: bourbon types, straight bourbon, how to drink mezcal.

Class vs pour

Language 1.5 oz drinks
Bourbon 1.00 at 40%
Straight From labeled ABV
Neat / rocks
100 proof 1.25

A 750 mL 40% bottle is about 17 drinks. Pour math: whiskey drinks.

Sources

  • 27 CFR 5.143 / 5.88. Typical US 40%. NIAAA December 2025.
  • 27 CFR 5.143; ≥40%
  • is 27 CFR 5.143

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