Bourbon is surrounded by myths as rich and colorful as the drink itself. From the “rules” about where it can be made to the “proper” way to enjoy it, there’s a lot of lore that blurs the line between fact and fiction. Ready to clear up the confusion and get to the truth? Let’s dive into some of the top bourbon myths and set the record straight.
Myth 1: Bourbon Must Be Made in Kentucky
The Myth:
Ever heard that bourbon can only be called bourbon if it’s made in Kentucky? That’s a common misconception, much like believing that only Detroit can produce American cars.
The Reality:
Here’s the scoop: While Kentucky is bourbon’s spiritual home, you can actually find bourbon being made all over the U.S. The only legal requirement is that it must be distilled in America. The secret ingredients? At least 51% corn, aged in new charred oak barrels, distilled to no more than 160 proof, barreled at no more than 125 proof, and has to be bottled at no less than 80 proof. So, whether it’s from the Bluegrass State or beyond, as long as it meets these criteria, it’s bona fide bourbon.
Example: Aged 8 years and made in Tennessee, Dickel Bourbon is one of my go to pours. It also won’t break your budget. You can check them out on Instagram @georgedickel
Myth 2: The Older the Bourbon, the Better
The Myth:
Age is often seen as a marker of quality. If a bourbon’s got some years under its belt, it must be top-notch, right?
The Reality:
Not always the case. Although aging adds complexity, older doesn’t always mean better. Excessive time in the barrel can make bourbon overly oaky or even bitter. So, what’s the ideal aging range? Many enthusiasts find that bourbons aged between 6 to 15 years offer the best balance of flavor. Ultimately, it’s all about personal taste – If you like it, drink it!
Example: Check out and try some Bottled in Bond whiskey. All of them are aged for at least four years, some a lot longer. I enjoy the bi-yearly release from Chattanooga Whiskey. Find them on Instagram @chattwhiskey
Myth 3: Bourbon Must Be Aged for at Least Two Years
The Myth:
Since we’re on the topic of aging, let’s tackle another misconception: Many people believe that bourbon must be aged for at least two years to be considered bourbon.
The Reality:
In fact, there’s no minimum aging requirement for bourbon itself. However, specific categories like “straight bourbon” do require a minimum of two years of aging, and “bottled in bond” whiskey must be aged for at least four years. For regular bourbon, as long as it meets the basic legal requirements, it can be young and still delicious.
Myth 4: Bourbon Has to Be Sipped Neat
The Myth:
There’s the thought out there that bourbon must be enjoyed neat. No ice, no water, no mixer. Anything else is sacrilege!
The Reality:
Not true at all! Adding a splash of water or a few ice cubes can open up a bourbon’s flavors, especially those higher-proof expressions. And cocktails? From the Old Fashioned to the Mint Julep, mixing bourbon is not only acceptable; it’s celebrated.
Example: Check out the Garden Party Punch on the @makersmark Instagram page.
Myth 5: Bourbon and Whiskey are the Same Thing
The Myth:
People often use “bourbon” and “whiskey” interchangeably, assuming they are the same thing.
The Reality:
Bourbon is a type of whiskey, but not all whiskey is bourbon. Whiskey is a broad category that includes various styles like Scotch, Irish whiskey, rye whiskey, and bourbon. As we talked about in Myth 1, whiskey has specific requirements to follow if it wants to grow up one day and be a bourbon.
Myth 6: Expensive Bourbon is Always Better
The Myth:
There’s a belief that pricier bourbons are automatically better than their more affordable counterparts.
The Reality:
Price doesn’t always equal quality. While some bourbons can be quite expensive due to rarity or prestige, there are plenty of excellent, budget-friendly options available. Personal taste is subjective, and the best bourbon is the one you enjoy most, regardless of the price tag.
Example: I love a great Bookers Bourbon any day of the week but it’s a bourbon that I can’t always afford. A great budget bourbon that definitely punches way above its weight class is Old Tub…. SRP $16.99. Check them out on Instagram @beamdistilling
Myth 7: Only Men Drink Bourbon
The Myth:
Bourbon has long been associated with rugged masculinity. Is it really a “man’s drink”?
The Reality:
Not at all. Women have been a crucial part of the bourbon world for years, from distillers to drinkers. Today, the bourbon community is as diverse as it gets, with women leading, enjoying, and innovating in the field. Some of these powerful women of whiskey include: Alex Castle (Master Distiller at Augusta Distillery), Victoria Eady Butler (Master Blender at Uncle Nearest), Marianne Eaves (Master Distiller at Forbidden Bourbon) and Tiana Saul (Head Distiller at Chattanooga Whiskey) to just name a few. To put things in perspective, today, 40% of whiskey drinkers in North America are women, and only 17% of cigar smokers are women.
Another Example: One of the top women of whiskey on YouTube, Dara (Instagram @therealaveragedrinker) host the channel, The Average Drinker. She describes her channel as “a whiskey community for everyone, including the bourbon noob or experienced whiskey drinker. Here, you will get to experience our whiskey journey. From our weekly livestreams and reviews, to our bourbon hunting trips, blind tastings, and much more!” If you haven’t checked out her channel, you are missing out.
The world of bourbon is as rich and complex as the drink itself, and debunking these myths helps you appreciate it even more. Next time you’re pouring a glass, remember that bourbon’s true essence lies in the enjoyment and the stories it tells, not the myths that surround it. So, raise your glass, savor the flavor, and let the spirit of bourbon guide you through its many facets.
THIS WEEK’S CONVERSATION TOPIC!
What are some other “Whiskey Myths” that you have heard? Let me know. I would love to know your thoughts, so comment below. You know I love conversation and will reply to you.
As always, I want to thank you so much for taking the time to read this. Until the next Whiskey Wednesday, if you’re going to enjoy a little smoke & oak, just remember, “Life’s too short, enjoy the good stuff…” and do it responsibly!
Note: All images sourced from each brand’s official Instagram accounts.
Charles Ruth