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Bourbon Classification Requirements and Pairing Tips from Kyle Brown

Bourbon Classification Requirements and Pairing Tips from Kyle Brown

Bourbon Classification Requirements and Pairing Tips

Fancy a pour of bourbon whiskey? Well, you’re in the right place! At Customshop, bar manager Kyle Brown invites us into the fascinating world of whiskey and bourbon. Discover the unique characteristics that make bourbon a distinctly American treasure and get some handy tips on how to taste and pair it like a pro.

Unveiling the World of Whiskey and Bourbon

According to Kyle Brown, Whiskey is an overarching term for a grain-based distillation aged in oak barrels. Varieties of whiskey are produced globally in places such as Ireland, Canada, and Japan. bourbon, however, is a specific type of whiskey unique to the United States and must adhere to particular regulations.

Essential Bourbon Classification Requirements

Bourbon must meet several strict criteria to earn its name. Here are the core requirements:

  • It must use 51% corn in the mash build.
  • It must be aged in charred new oak barrels.
  • Production must take place in the United States.
  • It cannot exceed 160 proof after distillation.
  • It cannot be barreled at more than 125 proof.
  • It cannot be bottled at less than 80 proof.
Requirement Details
Corn Content 51% in the mash build
Aging Charred new oak barrels
Location United States
Proof Post-Distillation Cannot exceed 160
Barreling Proof Cannot exceed 125
Bottling Proof Cannot be less than 80

Finding the Best Whiskey for Every Occasion

Kyle Brown suggests categorizing your whiskey collection to suit different occasions:

  • Everyday Consumption: Choose something reasonably priced and tailored to your taste.
  • Weekend Pours: Opt for a slightly more expensive bottle, often bottled in bond, to indulge on a leisurely weekend.
  • Special Occasions: Select a rarer, pricier bottle to share during memorable events.

Perfect Pairing Tips for Bourbon Whiskey

Pairing bourbon with food can elevate your tasting experience. Kyle Brown recommends grilled items, such as steak or duck, to complement bourbon’s smokey flavors. At Customshop, guests often combine Bourbon Whiskey with desserts like flan, or sweetened coffees, creating a delightful end to their meals.

“Bourbon whiskey usually produces flavors that are approachable, with notes of vanilla, caramel, buttery textures, nutty hints, and sometimes spices like clove,” says Brown.

Mixing Whiskey in Classic Cocktails

Bourbon and whiskey are versatile and can elevate classic Cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan. These timeless drinks highlight the rich flavors of the spirit, making them perfect for any occasion.

So, whether you’re a whiskey enthusiast or a bourbon newcomer, these tips and classifications will guide you through selecting, enjoying, and pairing your next pour.

Ready to explore more? Visit Customshop’s website for reservations and follow them on Instagram to stay updated on their latest offerings.

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Dylan Smith

Dylan Smith

Dylan Smith is a renowned bourbon connoisseur and author, whose passion for the amber spirit has taken him on a journey through America's distilleries, discovering the rich history and complex flavors that define bourbon. With more than a decade of first-hand experience and research, Dylan's expertise is unmatched, offering insights into the art of bourbon tasting, production, and collecting. His writings not only enlighten enthusiasts but also guide newcomers through the intricacies of this celebrated American whisky, making him a revered voice in the bourbon community.