The US Congress has legally secured “Bourbon” under the US Law Title 27 of the Code of Federal Regulations since 1964.
And to be considered straight bourbon, some criteria or requirements must be met.
But what is straight bourbon in the first place, and what are the requirements to be called one?
Let’s get to the bottom of it.
What Is Straight Bourbon?
Straight bourbon is a type of whiskey that meets all of the requirements of bourbon according to US law. It must be aged for two years at the minimum.
Before a straight bourbon can be bottled, it must undergo various steps, such as chill filtering, batch whiskey making, and adding water to reduce the proof.
This ensures that the alcohol content meets the minimum 80-proof requirement. No other blending or coloring agents are allowed.
History & Origin
Straight bourbon is a type of American whiskey made from corn.
It’s derived from the French Bourbon dynasty, though its exact source of inspiration is unknown.
Some examples of places named after the dynasty include Bourbon Street in New Orleans and Bourbon County in Kentucky.
In 1964, the US Congress recognized the distinct qualities of Bourbon, which is made from at least 51% corn.
Since then, bourbon sold in the US must only be made within the country.
Also, US law states that it must be stored using new charred oak barrels, which is in effect until today.
Straight Bourbon requirements
Production Process
There’s a concentration limit of 160 proof or 80% ABV [1] during the distillation process, and it should be barreled at 125 proof.
If blended, both spirits must be the same type, and adding colorings, flavorings, or any blending additives is not allowed.
Most importantly, the mash bill of straight bourbon must comprise at least 51% corn, and the production process must only take place in the US.
Maturation
Straight bourbon must be stored in new charred oak barrels.
During the maturation process, bourbon oxidizes and penetrates the wood, resulting in a straight bourbon.
This process results in the extraction of various flavor compounds, such as sweet and smoky notes.
Age & Alcohol Content
Straight bourbon must mature for at least two years and must be bottled at no less than 80-proof or 40% ABV.
Does Straight Bourbon Have To Be Made In Kentucky?
Not necessarily, as bourbon can be made anywhere within the US. But 95% of straight bourbons are made in Kentucky.
The state of Kentucky is known for its unmatched history of craftsmanship and is the spiritual home of bourbon.
Its climate and water supply are ideal for distilling, but straight bourbon can be made outside the state.
A straight bourbon can be from Indiana or Tennessee as long it meets the straight bourbon requirements.
But to be called a Kentucky Straight Bourbon, the spirit must be made in Kentucky.
“I have never in my life seen a Kentuckian who didn’t have a gun, a pack of cards, and a jug of whiskey.” – Andrew Jackson,Former US President/Lawyer
Famous Straight Bourbon Brands
Basil Hayden Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Basil Hayden’s is a bridge between the more expensive, small-batch, and independent distillery labels and the lower-priced, non-premium brands.
It’s also a great after-work sipper, as it can be purchased at a lower price in most locations.
It’s a great way to introduce your friends and family to bourbon, and it can be a gateway to discovering the more interesting Dark Rye or 10-year expressions from the company.
Knob Creek Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Known for its rich and full-bodied flavor, Knob Creek Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a popular spirit that Jim Beam produces.
It’s part of the company’s Small Batch Collection. The flagship bottle of this brand is aged for nine years.
This premium Kentucky whiskey brand produces a variety of different types of whiskey, including a robust rye.
It’s an excellent addition to any cocktail or mixed drink.
Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
This spirit has a heavy nose that features rich dried fruit and hints of mint and orange. It also has a faint vanilla and tobacco spice flavor.
This is a smooth and rich drink that many drinkers love.
Its complex flavors, such as cinnamon and cocoa, are complemented with various sweet and savory notes.
It’s warm and creamy at first, followed by a silky smooth, satisfying finish.
FAQs Related to What Is Straight Bourbon
What does straight bourbon whiskey taste like?
Straight bourbon whiskey has a sweeter taste with oak, cinnamon, and vanilla notes.
There are a wide variety of different types of bourbons, and one expert breaks them down into four main flavors: grain forward, cinnamon forward, nutmeg forward, and caramel forward.
What is the difference between bourbon and straight bourbon whiskey?
The difference between bourbon and straight bourbon whiskey is the requirement.
The primary requirement for a straight bourbon is to store the distillate in new charred oak barrels for two years, at least.
How is straight bourbon different from regular bourbon?
Straight bourbon must meet additional criteria, including being aged for a minimum of two years and containing no added flavors, colors, or other additives.
What are the legal requirements for straight bourbon?
According to U.S. regulations, straight bourbon must be made from a grain mixture that is at least 51% corn, distilled to no more than 160 proof (80% alcohol by volume), and aged in new charred oak barrels.
What does the term “straight” mean in bourbon?
The term “straight” in bourbon indicates that the whiskey has been aged for a specific period and meets certain quality standards, ensuring consistency and authenticity.
Is all bourbon considered straight bourbon?
No, not all bourbon is considered straight bourbon. To be labeled as straight bourbon, the whiskey must meet the specific aging and production requirements outlined by law.
How does aging affect the flavor of straight bourbon?
Aging in charred oak barrels allows straight bourbon to develop complex flavors and aromas, including notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and spice, while mellowing harsher elements.
Can straight bourbon be used in cocktails?
Yes, straight bourbon is versatile and can be used in a variety of cocktails, including classics like the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, and Bourbon Sour.
Are there different types of straight bourbon?
Yes, there are many different brands and expressions of straight bourbon, each with its own unique flavor profile and characteristics, influenced by factors such as aging, mash bill, and distillation techniques.
In Summary
When we say American spirit, bourbon comes to mind first. Well, bourbon is indeed an American Native Spirit.
It is only produced within the country– with Kentucky as the main producer of bourbon spirits.
To be considered as a straight bourbon, it has to meet the requirements in the production process, maturation, as well as the aging & alcohol content.
But regardless of whether the bourbon is straight or blended, what’s important is it suits your taste and satisfies your feeling.
Reference:
- https://www.britannica.com/story/why-is-alcohol-measured-by-proof
